Edward Van Mierlo

Edward Van Mierlo, 80, of Owensboro, passed away on September 18, 2025, while under the care of Hospice and Palliative Care of Western Kentucky.

He was born on November 30, 1944, in St. Louis, Missouri, to the late Edward and Virginia Baumgartner Van Mierlo.

Edward grew up in St. Louis and graduated from Bishop DuBourg Catholic High School. Following graduation, he began working as a bricklayer before being drafted into the U.S. Army in 1966. He proudly served in the Vietnam War, where he was wounded in combat and received two Purple Hearts for his bravery. Upon his return from Vietnam, he was a volunteer firefighter with the Saline Valley Fire Protection District in Jefferson County, Missouri, from 1970 to 1972.

In 1972, Edward joined Wilbert Burial Vault Company, where he started as a driver and worked his way up through the years. He retired after 35 years of dedicated service as plant manager.

Faith was central to Edward’s life. In 2009, he was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses at the Mehlville Kingdom Hall. He faithfully served as a Pioneer for six years and as a ministerial servant, devoting himself to his ministry.

Edward enjoyed golf, bowling, and cheering for his beloved St. Louis Cardinals. He also loved traveling with his wife, Dee. Together, they explored much of the United States, with Hawaii holding a special place in their hearts.

Above all, Edward cherished time with his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, and the love he showed to his children extended warmly to his grandchildren and great-grandchild.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Patricia Meyer.

Those left to cherish his memory include the love of his life and wife of 51 years, Deloris “Dee” Van Mierlo; children, Karen McLaughlin (John), Michelle Policari (Matt), Patricia “Pattie” Martin (Mark) and Greg Van Mierlo (Andria); grandchildren, Michael, Josh, Shannon, Rachael, Barrett, Chance, and Addison; and great-grandchild, Mabel.

A celebration of life will be held for Edward at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at the Owensboro Kingdom Hall. Internment with military honors will take place at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to The Heartford House, 2914 Old Hartford Rd, Owensboro, KY 42303

Messages and condolences for the family may be offered at www.glenncares.com.