Edwin Calvin Laakso

Edwin (Ed) Calvin Laakso, age 81, of Holland, MI, peacefully transitioned into our Lord’s kingdom on Wednesday, November 11, 2026. He was born to Rudolph and Sonia Laakso in New York on July 17, 1945.

Ed proudly served his country in the Army while he was stationed in Germany during the Vietnam War. He graduated from California State University of Northridge and went on to work as a recreational director for the City of Los Angeles for 23 years. His love of people and serving his community was apparent in the countless relationships he built over many years.

Ed was a devoted husband, father, papa, son, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. He was a hardworking man who enjoyed maintaining his yard, meeting new people, and tinkering in his garage while blasting soft rock.

He loved his family deeply and always had a silly story to share at gatherings. He enjoyed supporting his grandchildren’s interests by attending sports activities and other celebrations.

In addition to his family, Ed is remembered for the joy he found in spending time with his two beloved dogs, Tessie and Oliver, who brought comfort and love into his daily life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Rudolph and Sonia Laakso, his sister, Nancy, and his brothers Conrad, Eric, and Phil. He is survived by his wife of 13 years, Sue Laakso; children, Katie Lamb (Greg) Christina Veen (Shane), Melissa Pringle (Adam), and Kelsey Staples (Sean); grandchildren, Carly, Jacob, Jessica, Allie, Lexi, Grace, Zachary, Hudson, Darcy, Sullivan, and Coleton; great-grandchildren, Raiden and Dakota.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions be made in honor of Ed to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee.

To send a message of sympathy, sign Edwin’s online guestbook, or to share a favorite memory, please visit www.neptunesociety.com