Edward J. Merchant

We lost our only brother, Eddie Merchant, 64, Monday, August 2, 2021 in Cedar Rapids.

Born Edward J. Merchant on September 23, 1956, in La Porte City, IA, to Jerry and Arlene Kosnar Merchant. He grew up in Vinton, was a 1975 graduate of Washington High School, and a 1980 graduate of Parks College in Cahokia, IL. Eddie inherited his love of airplanes and flying from our Dad and spent his career as a pilot, aerobatic pilot and flight instructor. He wowed people all over the U.S. with his aerial maneuvers as part of an aerobatic team and could be seen often piloting one of Dad's homebuilt bi-planes. He was a gifted pilot, won numerous awards and ate, drank, and slept airplanes.

Sometimes we sisters were with odds with Eddie and often spoke of trading him in for another sister. But, over the last several years especially, we realized how close we were, how lucky we were and today we are saddened to say goodbye.

We sisters survive him; Pat (Larry) Dawson of Marion, Penny (Scott) Olson of Cedar Rapids, and Paula (Ron) Olsen of Aurora, CO and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

We will gather privately to celebrate Eddie.

Van Steenhuyse-Teahen Funeral Home in Vinton is caring for Eddie and his family. Condolences may be left at www.vsrfh.com.

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kb August 6, 2021, 1:25 pm My condolences to the family. I knew and dated Ed He would take me flying and do loops and rolls! Always talking about his routine for the next air show. Never a dull moment with him.
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of sorrow.

CM August 6, 2021, 2:01 pm Growing up as a younger cousin to Eddie, he was a super hero to me. I know that Dad loved visiting with Eddie and listening to all of his adventures in flying. I'll never forget my first aerobatic ride, and that's why I probably decided against pursuing any further flight lessons. My deepest sympathies go out to all of you.

TS August 6, 2021, 4:02 pm Years ago we were at the airport loading an ag-cat with thimet,jerry asked if I'd like to go for a ride in sky bolt,I said you bet. They were getting me all strapped in when I saw jerry and Eddie switching places.best ride ever. R.I.P.

EM August 6, 2021, 7:39 pm Although I didn’t know Eddie very well, I am sorry that he has passed at such a young age. It’s always sad when a family member goes to join God in his palace. I’m sure he will be missed by his families. Rest gently, Eddie.

Mike Merchant

MGN August 7, 2021, 4:35 am I was shocked and saddened to hear that Eddie had passed. I have many happy memories of air shows with Ed and your parents, listening to Neil Diamond, and have to smile when I remember Ed buzzing our house (so close to the airport) and how crazy it made my grandmother.

D&KH August 7, 2021, 4:17 pm Dear Sisters and families, So sorry for the loss of your brother, Eddie. We Rember his buzzing your folks house when your Dad was still alive! He had a big grin and would say, there goes Eddie! May you all find peace and comfort in the many memories you will share. God bless you all!! Dale and Karen

VB August 9, 2021, 1:53 pm Pat, Penny and Paula, you have my sincerest sympathies. Ed was a classmate, even though we weren't good friends he was always respectful to me.
Its been almost 3 years since my older brother Rick passed away. I miss him dearly but I know he is in a better place.
I knew when Ed was in town. First I'd hear him buzzing the town then I'd go outside and look towards your parents house.
May he rest in peace.

CF August 10, 2021, 6:16 pm So sorry for your loss. Your parents always had stories to tell about Ed’s love of flying and places he was. I’m sending hugs and prayers to you sisters.

TVE August 17, 2021, 12:16 pm Sorry to hear of your loss Paula and Penny and family . I always enjoyed Eddie flying his plane over Vinton

JY August 21, 2021, 7:29 am Eddie always had a love of life and a strong drive to live life. My condolences to the family.

NW March 12, 2023, 4:12 pm It's well after the fact now, but was very surprised today, while looking up some of my Parks College classmates, to find Ed had died. I lived next to Ed and his roomy Gerry Molidor my last few trimesters at Parks. Ed was a fun guy...a real character. He did a bangup job one year performing an aerobatic routine in his red S1 Pitts, over the grass runway at Parks. That was near the beginning of his dream to WOW the crowd. A dream he handily achieved.

Obituaries : Edward J. Merchant

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