Edwin Joseph Peacock

He was born on March 18, 1929, in Hulbert, Michigan, the son of Edwin Stephen and Alice Louise (Kropp) Peacock. Ed graduated from Rapid River High School and went on to further his education at Bay de Noc Community College, later earning his Bachelor of Science degree from Northern Michigan University. An accomplishment that reflected his lifelong dedication to learning and growth.

On July 3, 1949, Ed married the love of his life, Leatrice Mary Drossart. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised four children: Karen, Joseph, Mark, and Laura. Ed devoted many years to his work, first with Escanaba Steam Laundry and Escanaba Taxi service and then with Hawes Floor Covering in Escanaba for two decades, and later with the Intermediate School District, where he touched countless lives as a special education teacher for 20 years before retiring in 1992.

Ed had a true gift for music. A talented and versatile musician, he could play the violin, banjo, mandolin, harmonica and many other instruments. Over the years, he shared his love of music with many groups, including the Birch Creek Band, Delta Trio, and Country Wheels. Perhaps most meaningful was his generosity in bringing joy to others; he often visited nursing homes and assisted living facilities, using his music to brighten the days of residents.

Above all, Ed cherished his family. He created lasting memories with his grandchildren, who fondly remember sleepovers at Grandma and Grandpa’s house, especially waking up to the sound of his big brass bell calling everyone to a hearty family breakfast. He loved the outdoors, spending time fishing and hunting, and had a creative spirit. In the 1960s, he even ordered a mail-in kit and built his own television, just one example of his curiosity and ingenuity. Ed will be remembered for his warmth, his music, his creativity, and the deep love he had for his family and community.

Ed is survived by his children, Karen Peacock of Sheboygan Falls, WI; Joseph (Nancy) Peacock of Menominee, MI; and Laura (Robert) Manninen of Gladstone; daughter-in-law Lynn Peacock of Gladstone; eight grandchildren; sixteen great-grandchildren; and five great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Diane Godfrey; his brother, Milo (Tammy) Peacock; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Leatrice, and his son, Mark, brothers Robert, Roy, Victor, James and Charles; sisters Anna May, Dorothy, and Ruby.

Visitation will be held from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at Anderson Funeral Home in Escanaba. Funeral services celebrating Ed’s life will follow at 3:00 p.m. in the Anderson Funeral Home Chapel, with Pastor Lewis Hague officiating. A luncheon will be served following the funeral services in the Ludington Room located at the Anderson Funeral Home. Burial will take place at Fernwood Cemetery in Gladstone. The Anderson Funeral Home is assisting the Peacock family with the arrangements and online condolences can be sent to the family at www.andersonfuneralhomes.net.