Edward L. Kenning, a man of steady routine, quiet loyalty, and a love for his family and friends, passed away peacefully on March 31, 2026. A native of Defiance, OH, Ed spent the last 30 years making his home in Napoleon, OH, with his longtime companion, Phyllis Bischoff. He lived a life defined by service to his country, dedication to his fellow workers, and a deep love for a good game of cards.

Ed grew up in Defiance, attending St. John Lutheran School through the 8th grade before graduating from Defiance High School. It was there that he met his lifelong friend, Tom Kern. Their friendship remained steadfast for decades, with the two spending countless hours in recent months in quiet companionship, napping through old westerns without needing to say a word.

Following graduation, Ed proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. Upon his return, he began a career in the food and automotive industries. He spent many years at Dinner Bell Foods in Defiance, where his character truly shone during the facility’s closure. As a dedicated union member, Ed worked tirelessly, without pay, to ensure every employee was treated fairly before finally seeking a job for himself. He eventually retired from Tenneco Automotive in Napoleon.

If you knew Ed, you knew of his "rounds." A familiar face at the VFW, Moose, Am Vets, Eagles, and the Legion, Ed could be found daily "signing the books" and enjoying a Stroh’s- the only beer he would ever consider drinking. He was an avid golfer in his younger years and a fiercely competitive Euchre player. He took great pride in teaching his daughters the art of the game, ensuring the family’s card-playing legacy continued.

Ed was predeceased by his parents, William Francis “Bill” and Leona “Ruth” Kenning, and his older brother, Francis William “Bill” Kenning Jr. We find comfort knowing he was met by his mother with a spread of beef & noodles and pumpkin pie and absolutely no chicken or turkey, which Ed famously refused to eat because they were "foul."

He is survived by his beloved companion of over 30 years, Phyllis Bischoff of Napoleon, OH, and her children: Michelle (Kevin) Slee, Jeffrey (Cherie Gerwin) Bischoff, and their children and grandchildren.

His legacy lives on through his three daughters: Tamara (Alan) Prechtel, Deborah (Thomas ”Tab”) Bouc, and Rebecca (Troy) Richmond. He was the proud grandfather of Sarah and Amy Prechtel; Jacob and Joshua Bouc; and Cassie and Lucas Richmond; and the doting great-grandfather of Nolan Richmond. He also had many local friends that he treated as his own children as well.

Service Information:

On June 6, 2026 there will be a graveside service with Military Honors at Riverview Memory Gardens, 29231 CR 424, Defiance, OH at 11:00 am. Following the ceremony, there will be a gathering at noon at the Defiance Moose Lodge, 841 N Clinton St, Defiance, OH to help celebrate life the way Ed would want. Casual attire is requested.

Schaffer Funeral Home was honored to assist the family with arrangements.

Memorial Contributions: The family suggests donations in Ed’s Memory be made to Operation KAVIC c/o Keller Logistics Group, 1978 Thomas E. Keller Blvd, Defiance, OH 43512 Operation KAVIC - Main Fundraising Page: https://operationkavic.networkforgood.com This is a local organization that assists Veterans in need.