The world lost a kind and wonderful man to a surprisingly short but valiant fight with cancer on Wednesday, March 26, 2025. Ed passed away peacefully at home surrounded by love.

   Edward Francis Drilling III was born on June 24, 1951, to parents Ed, Jr. and Ellen Louise (Bell) Drilling. He grew up in Lake View, IA, and graduated in 1969. From there he attended Buena Vista University and obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and Philosophy and Religion.

   On March 23, 1978, Ed married Mary Amanda Rose Marsengill. They were blessed with two daughters, Jamie and Lauren. The family moved to El Paso, TX, where they lived for seven years before moving back to Iowa, settling in Des Moines. When in Texas, Ed was a fourth grade teacher. He was an amazing teacher who loved his job and students. In Des Moines, Ed worked as a clerk for the United States Postal Service for over twenty years before retiring in December of 2017.
   Ever the avid outdoorsman, fishing, camping, and especially gardening were the spice of his life. He enjoyed woodworking, and was a talented luthier. He was a creative cook and enjoyed reading in his free time. Time with family was of utmost importance to Ed. His children and grandchildren were an incredible source of pride for him. He will be missed dearly by all who knew and loved him.

   Left to cherish his memory include his daughters, Jamie Wirth of Omaha, NE, and Lauren (Jason) Straight of Johnston, IA; grandchildren Rose, Cecelia, Clara, Charlotte, and Georgia Freeman, and Esme Wirth; brother Lloyd (Linda) Drilling of Minnesota; two nephews; other extended family members and friends.

   Ed was preceded in death by his wife, Amanda Drilling (2016); and parents Ed, Jr. and Louise Drilling.