Edward "Ed" H. Latva was a lifelong resident of Rudyard who managed the hardware department of Rudyard Cooperative until his retirement in 1987. He then worked as a substitute janitor for the Rudyard Area Public Schools District for the next 10 years.

Mr. Latva died at the age of 83 Wednesday afternoon, April 27, at Northern Michigan Hospital in Petoskey.

He was born January 2, 1922, on his family's farm in Rudyard, to Henry and Mary (nee Hill) Latva.

Mr. Latva served in the United States Army during World War II as an anti-aircraft gunner, for which he received the Bronze Star for bravery, heroism, or meritorious service.

He married Norma E. Summerby September 24, 1953, in St. Ignace.

He enjoyed reading, walking, and visiting people on his walks. Family members said he enjoyed taking rides with his wife, most of all. He was a life member of the English-Wallis Veterans of Foreign Wars Post in Rudyard.

Mr. Latva is survived by three children and their families, Kim and Jody Mayer of Rudyard, Kathy and Jon McKibben of Wahpeton, North Dakota, and Scott and Tammy Latva of Kincheloe; grandchildren, Brenna, Travis, and Deidra Mayer, Angie McKibben, Jamie Stoneburner, and Brian Latva; one great-grandson, Kaine Hasbargen; brothers and sisters and their families, Howard and JoAnn Latva of Escanaba, Ted and Betty Latva of St. Ignace, Lila Massey of St. Ignace, and Eino Latva of Davenport, Florida, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Norma September 5, 2004, and his sisters, Bertha Latva, Anita Desrochers, Elsie Brannam, and Alma Massey.

At Mr. Latva's request, services will not be held. A private graveside service will be held at North Rudyard Cemetery in Rudyard.

Ross Funeral Home of Pickford assisted the family with arrangements.