Edward Palmer Baldwin's Obituary
Edward Palmer Baldwin, age 85, of Spring Lake passed away Tuesday evening, May 17, 2022. Ed was a good man, good dad, and lived a good life. He was born to Edward and Susan (Angell) Baldwin in Detroit on August 17, 1936. Ed loved growing up in Royal Oak and his ties to Detroit. He was preceded in death by his wife of 57 years Mary “Beth” Baldwin whom he loved so very much.
Ed graduated from the University of Michigan Engineering School in 1960. He and Beth enjoyed over 50 seasons of U of M football and tailgates with their many friends. He loved visiting his ATO house and the Engineering Arch and reminiscing about his and Beth’s time in Ann Arbor. Although Ed was a fan of Michigan athletics, what he valued the most was the education— a degree from his alma mater was second to none…and he made sure to let you know this.
Ed, a mechanical engineer, began his career with EW Bliss in Hastings, Michigan. He relocated to this area for a position with ATCO and eventually specialized in the plastics industry and started his own consulting business. He left his mark with a patent he holds from his work with Adolph Coors. Ed's purpose and profession were so entwined that he could never truly put down his slide rule and say, "I'm retired" and always spent some time each day in his office.
Ed loved this community and cherished the company of his and Beth’s friends whether it was Taco Tuesday, Sunday Supper, an evening at the symphony, or making plum pudding with the ladies. He was a man with many interests, well read, and a good conversationalist. He enjoyed skiing, biking, sailing, and genealogy. In his later years, he became active in his church, St. John’s Episcopal. He took time to get to know people and engage with them around their passions. Friends and acquaintances will often recall a conversation they had with Ed and an article or newspaper clipping he shared. His sense of humor and good-natured teasing will be missed.
Above all family was very important to him and a great source of pride. He loved sharing his children’s and grandchildren’s adventures and accomplishments. He is remembered by his three children Stephen Baldwin of Milwaukee, Susan (Ernie) Petrus of Spring Lake, and Amy Hough of Spring Lake; four grandchildren: Bryson and Ani Hough, Logan and Tessa Petrus. His siblings, Bernard Baldwin, Robert Baldwin, Susan Dewis, and Barbara Scott preceded him in death.
The family would like to extend sincere gratitude to the care team at Heartwood Lodge as well as NOCH Hospice.
In honor of Ed, his family will be having a private funeral service. This summer family and friends will gather to celebrate his life. Those wishing to make a memorial contribution in honor of Ed are encouraged to support the GHCF North Bank Communities Field of Interest Fund that provides grants for enhancing the environment, recreation, and education in our community. Arrangements entrusted to The Spring Lake Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 213 E. Savidge St., Spring Lake, MI 49456. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at www.sytsemafh.com
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