Lewis E. Edsall

Lewis “Lew” Edward Edsall

November 28 1959- December 14 2024

Lewis “Lew” Edward Edsall, 65, of Petoskey, passed away peacefully December 14, 2024, at his family’s compound in Glennie, Michigan. Born on November 28 to the late Anne Gustafson and Harold Edsall, Lew grew up in Ferndale Michigan where he attended high school. 

Lew was raised by his mother, Anne (Gustafson) Edsall, and his aunt, Helen Gustafson. Alongside his five siblings, he grew up in Ferndale, Michigan, and spent much of his youth traveling across the country in a motor home affectionately called “The Magic Bus.” These formative years instilled in him a love for adventure and a deep appreciation for family.

A true Jack of all trades, Lew had a remarkable talent for working with his hands. Whether creating something new or fixing what was broken, he found joy and purpose in craftsmanship. He worked as a welder and mechanic at Hyde Equipment before joining Litenburger Landscaping, where he applied his skills to fabricating vintage 1950s trucks. After Litzenburger Landscaping closed he joined 5H Irrigation until his retirement. His dedication to his work reflected his passion for creativity and problem solving.

Lew was also an avid NASCAR enthusiast who cherished trips to the Michigan International Speedway. His love for racing was matched only by the joy he found in connecting with others. Known for his infectious personality and generous spirit, Lew made friends wherever he went and was always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. 

Those who knew Lew will remember him as a kind-hearted soul whose warmth and humor left an indelible mark on their lives. He would do anything for anyone including giving the shirt off his back. May his memory bring comfort to all who were fortunate enough to know him. 

He is survived by his aunts Helen Gustafson, Jan Gustafson, and uncle Vince Griffin of Glennie; his daughters Heather (Gary) Bruce, Kayla (Charlie) Pennington of Petoskey; brothers Harold (Catherine) Edsall of Farmington Hills, Charles (Shelly) Edsall of Davisburg, cousin Scott Griffin of Glennie; and many nieces, nephews, grandchildren, grand-nieces, and grand-nephews. 

He is preceded in death by his mom Anne Edsall, father Harold Edsall, aunt Elsa Griffin, uncle Ed “Big Ed” Gustafson, cousin Andrew Griffin, sister Robin Sweppy, Heidi and Rocky Runstrom, Marianne Lucia. 

Please join us in a celebration of life at the Petoskey Snowmobile Club on January 19th from 2-5pm.

Contributions can be made to Camp Daggett.