Edward Adams

Edward R. Adams, 56, of Ottawa, IL, passed away, Saturday, July 9, 2011 at Methodist Medical Center in Peoria. Funeral Services will be 11:00 a.m. Thursday, July 14, 2011 at Ottawa Funeral Home with Father Jules Adator officiating. Visitation will be 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. Wednesday and from 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. Thursday at Ottawa Funeral Home with Military Presentation of the Flag. Ed was born April 19, 1955 in Ottawa, Illinois to William and Margaret (Lambertson) Adams. He married Darlene "Sue" Spence on December 22, 1973 at St. Patrick's Church. Ed served three years in the Unites States Army. He served our community as a LaSalle County Sheriff's Deputy for 28 years, retiring with the rank of Lieutenant. He served the communities of Grand Ridge and Marseilles as a part-time officer. He was a member of St. Mary's Church in Naplate. Ed was an active member of the Lions Club, serving as Vice President and Blind Activity Chairman. He was also an active member of the American Legion, Knights of Columbus, the Moose, and the Bullhead's Fishing Club where he enjoyed fishing with his fellow Chicago Police officers. He organized and headed up Special Olympics fundraisers in this area and also started the softball tournament among local law enforcement agencies and emergency responders to benefit Easter Seals. Although retired from the Sheriff's Department, Edward continued to bailiff at the downtown courthouse, worked with area lawyers in serving court summons, and with the help of his partner Brian Baldwin, run ASI Security. He is survived by his wife, three daughters, Tiffany (Ed) Green of Ottawa; Theresa Adams of Mendota; and Tara Adams of Washington; nine grandchildren, Madison, Alyssa, Hannah, Leah Green, Brittany, Lexi Adams, Macie Adams, Gabby and James Jaggers; his best buddy, Prince; his mother, Margaret Adams; four aunts, Hellen (Earl) Saxer of Washington, Juanita (Frank) Neumann of Streator, JoAnn (Lonnie) Beers of Streator, and Geri Puckett of Streator; one uncle, Harry "Porky" (Lynn) Adams of Las Vegas, two brothers, Brian Brenbarger and Joe (Debbie) Dilley; and one sister, Peggy (Warren) Ensor. He was preceded in death by his father, William "Bill" Adams. Ed put his heart and soul into everything he did. He loved people and he loved his family. Memorials may be directed to the family.