Edward Henry Steinman, a Coast Guard veteran of WWII, died suddenly on January 21, 2021, at the age of 97. He lived his entire life with fierce independence, determination, honesty, and integrity. He was generous, kind, and smart.
Born in Wyandotte, Michigan in 1924, he grew up to marry his high school sweetheart, Virginia Herrmann (Shelley’s mother), and was embraced by the Herrmann family. Virginia died in August 1950.
In June of 1953, he married a widow, Edith Todd, with 3 children of her own; Mark, Paul, and Nancy. They blended their family together, built a home, and along came Claire. They both enjoyed long teaching careers in Belleville, Michigan. Edward started out as a math teacher. He retired as Director of Guidance at Belleville High School, with 2 master’s degrees. Years after retirement, many students still corresponded with him.
He liked to read and fish (once in his later years, fishing with a good friend off a bridge from his car). He golfed well into his 80’s and ran the Men’s League at Gaylord Country Club for many years. He was fond of college football, basketball, and baseball. U of M was his favorite. He liked to watch Little League championships and got a kick out of players trying to spit. He liked to carve and was often studying to lead the Men’s Group discussions at the First United Methodist Church in Gaylord.
He gave all five kids the experience of college. He and Edith retired to Gaylord in 1977, to the home they built and loved on Dixon Lake. He could build anything. Mechanical engines were easy to him, although electronics baffled him a bit. He made many friends and cared about them.
As he aged, Edward faced many physical challenges, including the loss of his hearing and voice. With typical determination, he still found ways to communicate and get around. Thumbs up was a good sign. He resolutely endured this last year of quarantine, visiting with friends and family through a patio door.
Edward is survived by his children; Mark (Carol) Todd, Dr. Paul (Ginni) Todd, Nancy (Tim) O’Connor, Shelley Habermas, and Claire (Craig) Andersen; as well as 7 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren; his sister Sally Dennis; and brother-in-law, Eugene “Jake” Grahl. We will miss him dearly.
The family hopes to plan a memorial service in the spring or summer.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church online at https://www.fumcgaylordmi.org/give or by mailing your donation to Gaylord First United Methodist Church, PO BOX 617, Gaylord, MI. 49734.
Arrangements were entrusted to Nelson Funeral Home & Cremation Service, PO Box 1548, Gaylord, MI 49734.
7 comments on “Edward H. Steinman”
He and Edith were friends when we lived on Dixon Lake. Both were special people.
I never met your Dad but, in the 10+ years that I’ve been friends with Claire, I’ve heard so many stories that I feel like I have. He certainly leaves a legacy. Sending you, All, positive energy to get through this tough transitional time.
Ed and Edith were great stewards of Dixon Lake. Great memories of both of them. Hugs and prayers to all of you.
Aww, Ed was such a great guy. I was Edith’s hairdresser for years and friends of both for years. Sorry for your loss, my deepest sympathy. Great memories. ❤️
RIP, Mr. Steinman! Your dad was a great teacher and wonderful friend to my parents! They had great times in Gaylord. 97! What a great run! ❤Patty Emerson Groeschner
Thank you Patty. We loved your parents too.
My condolences to all of you. I was honored to have know him, and Edith. I loved the year’s of being with them at the Brook. He was a great man.