Edward Douglas Killin, Sr.

The family of Edward Killin Sr. bid a sad farewell to their loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend, and biggest fan. Ed dedicated his life to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. The family’s hallmark phrase was “Grandpa’s house – it’s kind of like having a little party.” Ed is remembered by several other catch phrases. Whenever the family went out to dinner, he would say. “There’s nothing to this cookin!” and “Everyone eat up, I don’t want anybody leaving hungry!”

Ed attended St. Peter’s Catholic School in Des Moines during his elementary and junior high years and graduated from Dowling High School in 1956. He went on to serve in the U.S. Navy in the late 1950’s. Ed joined the Des Moines Police Department in 1962, and after 7 years, he moved over to the Des Moines Fire Department. He retired from the department on June 16, 1996. Ed faithfully served the City of Des Moines for 34 years. Even after retirement, the current firefighters still remembered him. Every time they drove by his house on their way to a call, they would honk the horn. And each time, without fail, Ed would say, “Go get’em boys!” Ed has always said both departments were two of the best in the country.

Ed’s leisure time was spent running, playing racquetball, tennis, co-ed softball with his children and challenging his grandchildren to a race or a game of around the world. Ed’s running took him to the Pre-Olympic Trials in the 10,000 meters and he was chosen to run for the U.S. Navy Track Team. There is no doubt that Ed’s enthusiasm for sports spilled over into the lives of his children and grandchildren. He was, by far, their biggest cheerleader and fan. He loved to take in any sporting event his family entered. Ed also had a lifelong passion of raising and caring for all kinds of dogs. He also showed German Shepherds and won many awards with them.

Ed is survived by his three children: Debbie Illg (Nick), Ed Killin Jr., and Sue Smith (Matty). His 6 grandchildren: Afton, Zac, Cory, Summer, Megan, and Sophie. And his 6 great-grandchildren: Anders, Frankie, Houston, Lou, Knoxlee, and Georgia.

Visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, June 6, 2023, with funeral service following at 11:00 a.m., at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines. Burial will follow at Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Van Meter.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Shriners Hospitals for Children or the ARL in Ed’s memory.

Ed’s family thanks him for his dedication to their safety, happiness, and success. He has made them proud and they hope they did the same for him.

Now, run dad, into the arms of Jesus!

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