Edward Peter Paruch

Edward Paruch, 100, formerly of Three Oaks, Mich., beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, WW2 veteran and dedicated public servant, passed away December 15th at Willows Assisted Living in St Joseph, after a long and full life. Ed was born in Jackson, Mich., on April 6, 1920, to Chester and Josephine (Obuhowski) Paruch. He graduated from high school in 1938, joined the Civilian Conservation Corps and served in Wisconsin in soil conversation. In 1941, Ed joined the Army Air Force. During WWII, he served in the European theater, first in England, then in North Africa and Italy with the 15th Air Force. He was recognized with medals and awards for his service. In 1947, Ed joined the Michigan State Police. He was stationed at the Niles, Paw Paw and New Buffalo posts, receiving multiple commendations during his 28 years of service. Ed retired in 1975, going on to serve as a court bailiff for 14 years and then as a pre-trial release officer for the Berrien County Circuit Court. In 1949, Ed married Margaret Jeanne Peters of Niles. He is survived by two sons, Pete (Judy) of St. Joseph and Randy (Kim) of Jenison; five grandchildren, Tamara Rodman, Jason Paruch, Ryan Paruch, Zach Paruch and Christina Machado; and three great-grandchildren, Lucy Machado, William Paruch, and Esme Machado. Ed has now been reunited with his wife Jeanne; his parents; four brothers, and one sister. Ed loved his family, fishing, hunting and golf, as well as his countless friends and acquaintances in the law enforcement community. He will be forever remembered for his sharp wit, enduring sense of humor and stories of high adventure documenting his well-lived century of life. Due to COVID, a graveside service will be held at Calvary Cemetery in Niles at 11am, Monday, December 21, 2020. Special thanks to the staff and friends at the Willows of St. Joseph and Caring Circle for their loving care. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the Willow or Caring Circle Hospice.