Edgar Morris Eshelman

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Edgar Morris Eshelman, a beloved partner, father, son, brother, grandpa, uncle, friend, and dedicated professional. Edd departed this world on May 16, 2023 at Methodist Hospital, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, passion, and love. His life was marked by his remarkable career as a plant manager of food processing plants throughout the Midwest, a Journeyman Industrial Electrician, as well as his devotion to his family and his cherished role as a hobby farmer during his retirement years.

Born in Lutheran Hospital on May 14, 1956, Edd was the son of Darrell and Ladene (Morris) Eshelman. He spent his childhood days in Altoona and his formative years in New Virginia. During his youth, he was a part of Cub Scouts and Eagle Scouts and a proud member of the FFA. Through all of this, he developed a strong work ethic and a love for the outdoors. Edd’s determination and commitment to excellence were evident from a young age, setting the stage for his future accomplishments.

Edd’s professional journey began when he pursued his passion for supervising the night shift at Jimmy Dean Sausage which led him into his first career in the food production industry. His dedication led him to take on the role of Plant Manager, where he excelled in managing teams and overseeing operations, leaving an indelible mark on the organizations he worked for. He was Plant Manager at ConAgra, Oldhams, and Tyson to name a few. His expertise and skill in the field earned him a reputation for his attention to detail and ability to solve complex problems. After Edd’s career in management, he became a Journeyman Industrial Electrician for A-1 Electric, where he worked until his retirement in 2020.

However, Edd’s true happiness was found when he retired fulltime to his hobby farm, Liberty Farms in Osceola, Iowa. Here he raised cattle, a pet pig named Nelly Bell, several goats, llamas, chickens, and honeybees. Edd could fix anything and had a love for tractor mechanics. This came in handy for all of his projects on the farm. Edd also had a love of travel, and he and his partner Joe would travel in their RV and winter in Texas where his grandparents liked to spend time. It was a family memory that he held dearly in his heart, and his retirement allowed him the time to be able to make his own memories there.

Edd will be remembered as a loving and devoted family man. He was survived by his mother, Ladene Morris Eshelman; his beloved partner, Joseph Cavan; his daughters’, Kari (Jon) Heath and Dru (Vamsi) Yemadabthni; his grandchild, Emma Heath; his sister, Reinee (Bill) Hildebrandt; niece, Sandra (Michael) Butler and Sandra’s three children. Edd’s unwavering support, guidance, and love will forever be etched into the hearts of his family, who will miss him dearly.

Edgar Morris Eshelman leaves behind a rich and enduring legacy. His hard work, perseverance, and commitment to his passions serve as an inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing him. As we bid farewell to a remarkable man, let us remember the impact he made in his professional career, the joy he found in the beauty of nature, and the love he shared with his family. Edd’s memory will continue to live on in our hearts, and his legacy will be cherished for generations to come.

Family will greet friends Wednesday, May 24, 2023 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens, 121 N.W. 60th Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa. Services will be held the following day Thursday, May 25, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. also at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions can be directed to the family in loving memory of Edgar Eshelman.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.

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