Eduardo Villarreal

Eduardo "Ed" Villarreal Jr., age 66, of Rock Island, IL, passed away on May 9, 2024, surrounded by his loved ones at his home in Rock Island. Born to Eduardo and Guadalupe (Benavidez) Villarreal on May 3, 1958, in Harlingen, TX. Ed's life was a testament to love, laughter, and cherished moments shared with family and friends.

A funeral service will be held at Wendt Funeral Home on Wednesday, May 15, 2024 at 10 am with a visitation on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, from 4 pm until 7 pm at the funeral home. Burial will be in Rock Island Memorial Park Cemetery.

Ed was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Christine Wadkins, whom he married on July 28, 1978 in Kahoka, MO. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with love and laughter. Ed will be deeply missed by Christine and their children: Lisa (James) Barbee, Amy (Brenton) Powell, Ashley (Naythan) Villarreal-James, Edward (Joise) Villarreal III, and Jeremy (Stacy) Villarreal.

Ed's greatest joy was his role as a loving father and papa to his grandchildren and great-grandson. He bestowed each of them with their own special nicknames, creating lasting bonds and cherished memories. His playful spirit was evident in the jokes he played on his family and friends, bringing laughter wherever he went.

A true outdoorsman, Ed found solace and joy in fishing, especially when accompanied by his beloved grandsons. His special bond with his son Jeremy was evident in their shared drives to appointments, moments cherished for the closeness they shared.

Ed held a close relationship with his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, James "Jimmy" Wadkins and Kathy Dekezel, whose presence brought joy and warmth to his life. He adored his faithful companion, Nemo, and delighted in sharing his love for candy with his children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, earning him the affectionate title of the "candy man."

Throughout his life, Ed dedicated himself to his work, serving with dedication and diligence. He spent twelve years at Maid-Rite, followed by twenty years at Hy-Vee in Milan, and finally, twenty-five years with the Millard Group at John Deere PDC in Milan.

Ed is survived by his sisters Elena, Olga, Irma, Ester, and Yolanda, and brothers Roberto, Hector, Luis, Arturo, and Lionel, along with numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Francisco, sister Rosalinda De La Rosa, grandson Javier Villarreal, granddaughter Christina Morlan, nephews Stephen and Chris Villarreal, and nieces Angelina and Morcia Elisa Villarreal.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to UnityPoint Hospice, especially Nurse Nadia, for their compassionate care during Ed's final days. Memorials may be made to the family in lieu of flowers.

Ed's departure leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew him, but his spirit of love, laughter, and generosity will live on in the memories of those he touched. May he rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love of those who went before him.

Family and friends are invited to share memories and express condolences on his Memory Page at wendtfuneralhome.com