Edward M. Whitney, retired Case IH employee, semi-professional devil's advocate, devoted pizza enthusiast, and beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at the age of 71.

A memorial service will be held at 6:00 pm on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at Van Hoe Funeral Home, East Moline.  Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.  Memorials may be made to the family.

Born to Martin and Mona Whitney, Ed was raised with a strong work ethic, a quick wit, and a deep love for lively conversation—traits he carried throughout his life.

Ed was known for his sharp sense of humor, his knack for challenging perspectives (often just for the fun of it), and his deep and unwavering love for his family. He was the kind of man who could debate anyone into a corner, then share a slice of pizza with them afterward—always with a grin.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Martin and Mona Whitney; his brother, Tom Whitney; and his son, Shane Whitney.

He is survived by his loving wife, Catherine Whitney; sons Joseph Wulgaert and James Wulgaert (Lee); grandchildren Jaimi, Noah, Alex, and Whitney Wulgaert; his father-in-law, Virgil Baca; brother, Kirk Whitney; sister, Kathy Collins and niece Julia Mlekush.

Each of them carries forward Ed's legacy of warmth, curiosity, and quick wit.

Whether sitting around the kitchen table solving the world's problems over coffee, spending time with his grandkids, or delivering a perfectly timed joke, Ed made life richer for those around him. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.