Obituary Edward "Ed" R. Pickell, 80, of Peoria passed away on Wednesday, July 8, 2015 at 2:47A.M. at Apostolic Christian Skylines in Peoria. Ed was born on October 4, 1934 in Detroit, Michigan to Edward and Josephine (Goeman) Pickell. Surviving are his son, Michael (Stacy) Pickell of Washington; three granddaughters, Allie, Katie, and Courtney; two sisters, Barbara (Kermit II) Pentecost of Florida and Beverly (Norman-deceased, Les Bigelow) Wenger of Arizona; nieces and nephews, Barbara (Brian) Bestrom, Deborah (Mike) Fedewa, Kermit III (Minda) Pentecost, all of Michigan. He was preceded in death by his parents. Ed received his Bachelors degree from Albion College in Michigan. He went on to earn his Master's degree from Michigan State University. For 45 years, Ed worked as a teacher and administrator in Illinois and Michigan, including at the Department of Corrections for the State of Illinois. He was a member of Crossroads United Methodist Church in Washington. He was a member of several organizations including the Joseph Robbins #130 Masonic Lodge, The American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers, Illinois Grade School Music Association where he judged various children's competitions, Nashville Country Music Association, Peoria Orpheus Men's Chorus, and the Peoria Scottish Rite Consistory. Ed loved to sing and compose music. He had fond memories of his years teaching high school band, especially of leading his band's participation in the Indianapolis 500 Festival in 1964. Memorial contributions may be made to Crossroads United Methodist Church in Washington. There will be no services. A private interment will be held at a later date in Maple Grove Cemetery in Mason, Michigan. Deiters Funeral Home & Crematory in Washington is assisting the family with arrangements.