Edward J. Deal

In Loving Memory of Edward Deal

Edward James Deal, age 71, U.S. Navy Veteran. Beloved husband for 40 years to Barbara, nee Carlson. Loving father of Alisha (Darrell) Landy, Kimberly (Andrew) Weston, and Matthew Deal. Cherished grandfather of Jessa, Michael, Levi, and Landon Weston; Ariana, Ricky, Amari Artis; and Anahi Guzman. Dearest great-grandfather of Arion and Arias Hasan; and Zenyx and Eliani Santiago. Fond son of the late Gordon and Edna Deal. Dear brother of G. Richard (Deborah) Deal and Diana (late John) Myhre. Fond son-in-law of Marjorie and the late Melvin Carlson. Uncle of many nieces and nephews.

Ed was a loving father, devoted grandfather, hardworking man, proud Navy veteran, and devout Christian whose life was filled with faith, love, and laughter. Known for his wonderful sense of humor, Ed was always joking and finding ways to make those around him laugh. His ability to bring joy to others was a special part of who he was, and true to his spirit, he continued joking until the very day he passed away.

Ed proudly served his country in the United States Navy, a meaningful chapter of his life that remained part of his story. During his time in the Navy, he earned the distinction of becoming a Shellback, a title given to sailors who cross the equator and participate in the traditional naval ceremony. His military service was an important part of the life he lived and the experiences that helped shape him.

Earlier this year, Ed was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, beginning a difficult journey that lasted approximately nine months. Through this challenging time, he remained the man his family knew and loved, continuing to share his humor and bring smiles to those around him. His final months were a difficult chapter, but they do not define his life or the lasting impact he made on those who loved him.

Ed was a hardworking man who deeply cherished his family. Some of his greatest joys came from spending time with his children, grandchildren, and loved ones. Whether joking around, sharing stories, or simply enjoying time together, he treasured those moments. He had a special way of making people laugh and bringing warmth to every gathering, leaving behind countless memories that his family will hold close forever.

As a devout Christian, Ed’s faith was an important part of his life. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, dedication, hard work, humor, and love. He will be remembered for his service to his country, his devotion to his family, and his remarkable ability to find a reason to laugh and make others laugh along with him.

Though his battle with pancreatic cancer has ended, Ed’s story is so much more than his illness. He was a man who served his country, worked hard, loved deeply, held firmly to his faith, and brought laughter into the lives of so many. His jokes, his smile, and the memories he created will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

Ed was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed. His family finds comfort in their faith and in the hope of being reunited with him one day.

May he rest peacefully in the loving arms of the Lord. His laughter will be missed, his love will never be forgotten, and his memory will live on forever

Visitation will be November 4, 2026 at Bethel Bible Church, 3225 W. 96th St., Evergreen Park, IL 60805 from 3:00-8:00 p.m. Visitation continues at the church on November 5th, 2026 from 9:00 a.m. until time of The Celebration of Life Service at 10:00 a.m. Interment with Military Honors to follow at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, 20953 W. Hoff Rd, Elwood, IL 60421.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Bob Uecker Chair for Pancreatic Cancer Research at the Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226 CLICK HERE to donate online or Christmas Without Cancer, 15418 S. Harlem, Orland Park, IL 60462 CLICK HERE to donate online.

Express your thoughts and condolences at colonialchapel.com or 708-532-5400.