Edward "Ed" McDonnell, of South Lyon, a devoted husband, cherished family man, and proud US Marine, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at Henry Ford Providence Hospital, Novi.  He turned 84 the day prior to his passing.

Born in Detroit, Michigan, on June 9, 1941, Ed was one of 13 children in a close-knit Catholic family. He graduated from St. Vincent's High School and later earned his associate's degree from Walsh College. Ed began his working years as a young usher wiping the spectator's seats at Tiger Stadium in Detroit.  With a sharp mind and a strong work ethic, Ed built a successful career in the oil industry. He began at Mich-I-Penn Oil, eventually becoming its owner, and later served as Vice President at Eppert Oil, where he was respected not only for his financial acumen but for his warmth and leadership.

Before his professional life began, Ed proudly served his country as a United States Marine from 1961 to 1964. His pride in his service never wavered. When two Marines crossed paths, Ed lit up—brotherhood and loyalty ran deep in his veins.

On June 18, 1966, at Epiphany Catholic Church in Detroit, Ed married the love of his life, Lorraine "Laurie" (Veres). Together, they built a home full of laughter, love, and enduring partnership. He was a great provider and a devoted family man—witty, warm, and fiercely loyal.

A true people person, Ed's circle of friendship was wide and genuine. Whether it was the man mowing the lawn or the agent selling the house, Ed made people feel valued. Many who crossed his path considered him a best friend—an honor he humbly earned through his kindness and inclusivity.

Golf was Ed's passion for many years—rain or shine, he was ready with clubs in hand. He relished the game as much for the camaraderie as the competition. Later in life, coin collecting became a favorite pastime, especially the Morgan silver dollars, a collection he once treasured. Crossword puzzles kept his mind sharp, and poker—his all-time favorite—fed his love of competition, strategy, and a good bluff. He was lucky at the tables and even luckier in life.

Though health challenges—including multiple heart attacks and surgeries—slowed him a bit, Ed's spirit remained vibrant. Even after a cancer diagnosis in 2023, he found joy in life's quieter pleasures, especially watching his beloved Detroit Tigers, Lions, and Red Wings. He was never far from a game or a joke—though many of his best jokes remained in close company.

Ed was truly one of a kind: warm, witty, generous, and loving. He was a man who called his sister, Carol, every Monday for 50 years—a testament to the deep bonds he nurtured. He will be remembered as a man who loved deeply, laughed freely, and left a legacy of friendship and family.

Ed is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Laurie; their cherished children, Jason McDonnell, Erin Brockhaus, and Casey (Courtney) McDonnell; grandchildren, Jack, Sam, Elle and Ryan Brockhaus, and Libby and Wren Lutz; and brothers, Thomas, Richard, William and Patrick (Susan) McDonnell; sisters, Marilyn (Ronald) Goeyvaerts, Carol (Laurie) Dooge, and Maureen Eden; and by countless friends who were fortunate to know the gift of his presence.  He was preceded in death by brothers, Michael, Robert, Terrance, George and John McDonnell.

A Funeral Mass celebrating Ed's life is planned for Wednesday morning, June 18, 10:00 am (visitation 9:30 am) at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church, 23615 Power Rd., Farmington.

Interment will take place Monday, August 4, 11 am, Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, MI.

Semper Fi, Ed. You will be missed but never forgotten.