Edward Francis Katzmark, 74, Superior, died May 7, 2014 due to complications from lung cancer. He was born Sept. 5, 1939 to Steve and Mary Katzmark, and was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Steve and Richard.

Ed is survived by his wife of 54 years, Kathleen (Rich) Katzmark; two daughters, Melinda (Don) Rautio and Gina (Josh Schmidt) Katzmark; three grandchildren, Allison Myhre, Ryan Myhre, and Raven Rautio; one great-grandchild, Zoey Belle LaFont; sisters-in-law, MaryAnn Katzmark Judy Katzmark, Arlene (Lee) Andrews, Connie Staven; brothers-in-law, Gary (Sue) Rich and Robert (Debbie) Rich; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.

Ed was a lifelong resident of Superior's East End neighborhood. He entered the U.S. Navy on his 17th birthday and served on board the U.S.S. Hancock CVA 19. Upon leaving the Navy, he joined the Merchant Marines as a wheelsman on the Great Lakes Fleet. He also worked at King Midas flour mill until 1971.

On June 6, 1971, Ed survived a devastating car accident. A permanent spinal cord injury forced him to use a wheelchair for the last 43 years of his life. He served as a role model for others, as he never let the disability define him or stop him from leading a fulfilling life.

Ed's career as husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather was most important to him. He served as the primary caregiver for his "three girls" Kathy, Melinda and Gina - cooking meals, washing dishes, helping with homework, and maintaining the house and yard.

Ed was an outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing; a loyal fan of stock car racing and Green Bay Packers and Wisconsin Badgers; and an avid reader, who read more than 2,000 novels in his lifetime.

His neighbors were among his best friends. He also enjoyed the company of animals, especially his late dog, Brandi. Ed requested that memorial gifts be made to the Humane Society of Douglas County.

The family would like to thank the exceptional staff of Essentia Health Hospice and Solvay Hospice House for their compassion and professionalism.

A celebration of Ed's life will be held on Saturday, May 10, 2014 at Zion Lutheran Church, 2022 East Second Street in Superior. The family will receive visitors beginning at 10:00 a.m. with the memorial service to follow at 11:00 a.m. Rev. Gary Garnatz, pastor of Bethel Lutheran Church will officiate.

Military honors will be accorded by the Richard I. Bong American Legion Post #435.

Downs Funeral Home, corner of Ogden Ave. & 19th St., is assisting the family with arrangements.