The world famous, but not internationally known, Edward Dean Lodge, resident of Steeleville, Ill., passed away this past Saturday, February 7, 2015 in his home surrounded by his loving wife, children, grandchildren and other family members. He was born on February 5, 1953, in Murphysboro, Ill., to Delmar and Nettie Lodge of Willisville, Ill. Ed married Cheryl Lodge August 5, 1984 at Peace Lutheran Church in Steeleville, IL. She survives. He is survived by son Casey (Jaime) Lodge of Campbell Hill, son Tyson (Heather) Lodge of Waterloo, IL, daughter Kelly Pierce of Walsh, IL and daughter Hannah (Drew) Dethrow of Waterloo, IL . Ed has 7 grandchildren Jacob Lodge, Cole Pierce, Presley Lodge, Wilson Lodge, Kenzie Pierce, Jackson Lodge and Braden Lodge. He is also survived by his brother, Keith Lodge of Willisville, and his sister, Deborah Lodge of Willisville. He was preceded in death by his Parents. Ed was an active member at Grace Church in Chester, IL where he taught with Ms. Donna in the 4 year olds classroom for over 10 years. His fun loving spirit, his fantastic sense of humor and his love for children made a wonderful difference in sharing God's love. He also participated building Homes for the Homeless in Mexico on several mission trips. Ed graduated from Trico High School in 1971, and continued his education for a year at Kaskaskia College. Ed was a member of Steeleville Eagle's Club. He worked as a plasterer for himself locally as well as Phillips Plastering Company of Freeburg, IL. He was also a member of the Plasterers Union Local Three out of St. Louis, MO for over 40 years. Ed was a fourth generation plasterer and his excellent work can still be admired throughout southern Illinois and several other areas of the Midwest. Ed's talent, skills, knowledge and strong work ethic made him a master craftsman at his plastering trade. Ed's Joy in life was his family and his greatest Joy was his grandchildren. He enjoyed nothing better than watching them grow while making them laugh with his unique story telling ability. Ed enjoyed over the years his Harley Davidson motorcycles trips with his cousins, NBA basketball, history, music, classic cars, western movies, but most of all his larger than life personality and his ability to fill any room with laughter while telling his famous stories. The visitation and funeral service will be held at Grace Church, 2100 State St., Chester, IL 62233. Those who would like to attend are invited to join Ed's family and friends on Thursday, February 12, from 4:00-8:00, Friday visitation 11:30 - 1:00 and the funeral on Friday, February 13, at 1:00. Memorials may be made to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital or Hospice of Southern Illinois.