Edward Carl Hanpeter

Edward Carl Hanpeter September 12, 1930 – July 25, 2025 Edward Carl Hanpeter passed away peacefully on July 25, 2025, in Novi, Michigan, at the age of 94. Born on September 12, 1930, in St. Louis, Missouri to Paula (Vahlkamp) and Armin Hanpeter. Ed lived a life defined by devotion to family, intellectual rigor, and generous service to others. Ed was the husband of Joan, his steadfast partner in life and love for nearly 69 years. Together they raised four children, eventually celebrating the joys of seven grandchildren and one great-granddaughter. Ed cherished the family’s time together at their vacation home in northern Michigan, where many happy memories were made. Ed was a graduate from St. Louis Country Day School and earned his undergraduate degree from Cornell University, where he was managing editor of The Cornell Daily Sun. He served two years in the US Air Force. He later earned his Juris Doctor degree from the University of Michigan Law School, where he was a member of Law Review. He began his legal career in the office of General Counsel for Ford Motor Company. He left that position to work in corporate law with Dykema law firm, eventually becoming a partner for over 30 years. Ed contributed his time and talents through numerous volunteer activities including Presbyterian Village of Michigan (PVM). He served on the Board of the Ecumenical Theological Seminary (ETS) for 20 years. His commitment to justice, service, and community was not just professional, but personal—guiding principles that shaped his entire life. Ed was a devoted and long-time member of Kirk in the Hills Church and previously Grosse Pointe Memorial Church. Ed loved history, sports, model trains, writing, gardening and the beauty of northern Michigan. Looking back he reflected that he had a “wonderful life”. Those who knew Ed will remember him as humble, intelligent, honest, generous, loyal, thoughtful, and deeply committed to the values he held dear. Ed is survived by his wife Joan, their four children: Brad (Terri) , Eric (Laura), Paula (Chris) Prisby, and Gregg. He has seven grandchildren: Robert Hanpeter, Julia (Eric) Ditmore, Matthew (Emi) Hanpeter, Emma (John) Raupp, Alysse Hanpeter, Carl Hanpeter, and Grace Prisby. He has one great-granddaughter (Isabella Raupp) and one brother (Paul). He was predeceased by two brothers (William and Robert) and two sisters (Dorothy Hanpeter and Betty Evans). He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know and love him. A memorial service to celebrate Edward’s life will be held at Kirk in the Hills on Friday, September 5, 2025 beginning at 7:30 pm. The service will be available by livestream at https://kirkinthehills.org. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you honor Ed’s memory by cherishing your loved ones, speaking up for truth and justice, and planting the seeds of kindness wherever you can.

Edward Carl Hanpeter

September 12, 1930 - July 25, 2025