Edward S. Little

Frankenmuth, MI; formerly of Bad Axe, MI

Late-spring lilacs grow in abundance on Mackinac Island, Michigan, just as they did in the backyard of Ed's childhood home in Bad Axe.  Born December 2nd, 1965, Ed was the third of five children of [the late] Edward and Glenna Little.  It was while working at Mackinac's Grand Hotel that he met Colleen Kolhoff, and 32 years ago, they were married in Colon, MI.  Colleen's friends would often wistfully dream, "I want to marry an Ed".

When their only child, Nate, first attended school, he was asked what he wanted to be when he grew up.  "A dad," he responded, which tells us everything we need to know about Ed as a father.

Short in stature, Ed was towering in impact.  Although his careers were in management and human resources, people were his focus.  He loved working with others, and they loved him in return; his leadership was less a job than a calling.

Like the keystone in an archway, Ed filled a crucially supportive role in his family:  steadfast, reliable, foundational, connective.  He possessed the gifts of effortless influence and calm steering.  Yet amid the responsibilities he shouldered, Ed was playful and quick to laugh.  Cherished memories of his hearty chuckle and sparring wit remain to warm us in his absence.  He was, simply put, "one of the good guys".

Ed crossed into eternity unexpectedly on the evening of Sunday, December 17, 2023 at home, surrounded by family.  Left with the memories he created and lives he enriched are his wife Colleen Little of Frankenmuth; son Nathan Little of Holly; sisters Michele [Iain] Gunn of Florida, and Darcy Little [partner Linda Sanback] of Saginaw; twin brother Andrew Little of Portage; brother Perry Little of Bad Axe; Colleen's parents William Kolhoff and Alice Weber; and several cherished nieces and nephews.

A memorial service to celebrate Ed's life and legacy will take place at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that expressions of sympathy be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation msfocus.org   As we remember Edward S. Little, a loving son, brother, husband, father, and friend, we celebrate a life well-lived and a love well-shared.