Edward Paul Donnelly

Greenfield - Edward Paul Donnelly, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully the evening of Thursday, March 13th at the age of 76. Ed lived a full and vibrant life, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and dedication. A proud graduate of Northern Illinois University, Ed was drafted into the United States Army on September 10, 1970. He served as a Specialist and a Vietnam veteran, honorably discharged on September 9, 1976. His years in the military reflected his steadfast character and commitment to something greater than himself. Ed was a true jack of all trades, a skill set honed from his upbringing on the family farm. Over the years, he worked in various industries, from railroad to coal, limestone, and crushed stone — always ready to roll up his sleeves and tackle whatever task lay ahead. Beyond his work, Ed found joy in life’s simple pleasures. Most evenings were spent enjoying long walks with their dogs. He was an avid golfer, a puzzle enthusiast, and a cigar aficionado — a familiar and comforting presence at his children’s sporting events, where the unmistakable scent of his cigar became part of the memory of those moments. Music played a special role in his life as well; Ed loved playing the piano, often challenging his kids to rounds of “Name That Tune” when they were home for school breaks. Ed also loved helping people, whether it was a stranger on the side of the road or a friend working on a project. Ed is survived by his beloved wife, Joan; his son, Eddie, his daughters Christine (Matt) and Shannon (Kerrik), grandchildren Kadence, Kali, Taylor, and Madi, and sisters Patty, Pegee, and Kathy. A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, March 19, 2025 at Erlewein Mortuary & Crematory, 1484 W. US Hwy. 40, Greenfield, IN 46140, at 12:00 pm. Burial will follow at Park Cemetery in Greenfield. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made by mail to Wheeler Mission, P.O. Box 3085, Indianapolis, IN 46206, or by website at https://wheelermission.org/. Memorial contributions may also be made by mail to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675, or by website at https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/. Envelopes will also be available at the mortuary. Friends may share a memory or condolence at www.erleweinmortuary.com.

Edward Paul Donnelly

July 22, 1948 - March 13, 2025