Edward Calvin Soetaert, born on August 2nd, 1949, was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, farmer, coach, friend, and community member. He passed away peacefully at the age 77, on September 15th, surrounded by his family. He leaves behind a lifetime of memories and a legacy of love, hard work, service, and, above all, devotion to his family.

Born and raised in Andrew County, Ed graduated from Maryville High School in 1967. Shortly after graduation, he joined the Air National Guard, serving from 1967 to 1973. He later attended Northwest Missouri State University, graduating in 1979 with degrees in Animal Science and Agricultural Education.

On August 5th, 1978, Edward married Joyce (Johnson) Soetaert. They lived on a farm outside of Bolckow where they raised their 3 daughters.

Farming was an important part of Ed’s life and connected him deeply to his family’s history. He farmed land in Andrew County that had first belonged to his grandparents and later his parents, Victor and Edna Myrl Soetaert, proudly carrying on a family tradition and caring for the land that meant so much to him. He also enjoyed sharing that history as a member of the Heart of America Tractor Club, where he proudly displayed his father’s beautifully restored 1946 Farmall tractor.

In 1985, Ed began his career as a Rural Letter Carrier, serving his community until his retirement in 2014. His commitment to others extended beyond his mail route through district offices and state committees within his union. Ed was also a longtime member of the United Methodist Church in Bolckow and Savannah, a member of the Masonic Lodge and Dick Munkres American Legion Post 287, and participated in Democratic activities for Andrew County.

While Ed took pride in his work, farming, and community involvement, his family was always at the center of his life and his greatest source of pride and joy.

He treasured being a husband, dad, and grandpa. He coached his daughters in T-ball and softball and, as his family grew, became a familiar face in the stands and along the sidelines at his grandchildren’s sporting events. Whether it was a field, court, or stage, Ed made every effort to be there. His love of softball also led to many family trips to the Women’s College World Series, creating traditions and memories around a sport they enjoyed together.

Some of Ed’s happiest moments were simply spent with the people he loved— dancing at the Eagles Lodge, camping, traveling, gathering together, sharing stories and laughter, or cheering on his family. He showed his love not only through words, but through his presence. He was there—for the big moments, the ordinary ones, and so many moments in between.

Those who knew Ed will remember a hardworking man who valued family, faith, community, and tradition. But his greatest legacy is found in the people he loved and the life he built with them. It lives on in his daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchild; in the lessons and values he passed down; and in the stories, traditions, and memories his family will continue to share. Though his presence will be deeply missed, the love he gave his family will remain a part of them and be carried forward for generations.

Ed will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his wife, Joyce Soetaert; his daughters, Susan (Cody) Brittain, Victoria (Kane) Mueller, and Sarah (Marco) Jimenez; his grandchildren, Kale (Raegan), Austin (Audrey), Bryce, Cassidy (Blake), Echo, Hallie, and Nolan; his great-grandchild, Kase; his twin brother, Earl (Diane, Jeff, and Phil) Soetaert; extended family; and many dear friends.

A life well lived.

A family deeply loved.

A community faithfully served.

And a legacy that lives on through them.

Ed will be cremated under the direction of Heaton-Bowman-Smith Savannah Chapel. The family will receive friends 4:00 to 6:30 PM Monday, September 21 with a Celebration of Life to begin at 6:30 PM with Military Honors to follow rendered by the American Legion Post 287 all located at Heaton-Bowman-Smith Savannah Chapel, 307 S. 6th Street, Savannah, MO 64485.

The family has requested memorial donations to MORLCA Auxiliary Scholarship (Missouri Rural Letter Carrier Association) or Missouri Armed Forces Veteran’s Club Scholarship in Edward’s memory.