Edward Duane Cornelius

Edward Duane Cornelius, 78, of Mattawan, passed away Saturday, November 26, 2022, at his home surrounded by his family.

He was born November 16, 1944, in Reed City, Michigan, the son of the late Lloyd Cornelius and Sylvia (Ripley) Cornelius.

Ed was employed with General Motors in Kalamazoo for over 37 years as a maintenance welder. Following his retirement, Ed began farming and raising beef cattle. He took pride in showing his cattle. The grandchildren were the highlight of his life. He was active in his grandchildren's lives and supported them at their many sporting events over the years. His favorite pastimes were hunting and fishing. He enjoyed trips to Colorado elk hunting and whitewater rafting. In 2015, Ed and Julie celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary and enjoyed a trip to Maine.

On July 31, 1965, in Kalamazoo, he married Julie (Miller) Cornelius who survives.

He is also survived by his two sons, Fred Cornelius and Edward (Eva) Cornelius Jr., daughter, Gail (Kirk Barnes) Cornelius; five grandchildren, Steven Cornelius, Ashleigh Cornelius, Mackenna Barnes, Joseph (Taylor) Cornelius and Ciera (Jeff Denton) Cornelius; eight great grandchildren, one brother, Phil (Dolores) Cornelius; four sisters, Kay (Carl) Miller, Lois Montgomery, Kathy Pontz and Sue (Gordy) Mitchell, along with many nieces and nephews.

Edward was preceded in death by his sister, Helen Bregg.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Saint Jude Children's Research Hospital or to the charity of choice.

Family and friends are invited to visit on Monday November 28, 2022, from 6-8 p.m. at the Adams Funeral Home, 502 West Michigan Ave., Paw Paw, where a funeral service will follow on Tuesday at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. Dan Brooks officiating. There will be visitation Monday beginning at 12:00 p.m. Private interment will take place at Mount Ever Rest Memorial Park South.