Edward Rudolph Stielau, age 84, a resident of Aberdeen, died on May 19, 2017, at Grays Harbor Community Hospital. Mr. Stielau was born on March 20, 1933 in Cleveland, Ohio, to Rudolph and Helen (Frank) Stielau. He was raised in Cleveland, Ohio.

On June 1, 1957, he and Betty Jane “BJ” Kocsis were married. She survives at the family home in Aberdeen.

He would serve in the United States Navy during the Korean conflict aboard the LSD 21 Fort Mandan. At this time he received his initial training as a diesel mechanic and refrigeration technician. Upon his discharge he returned to Cleveland where he pursued a career in Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning, serving a five year apprenticeship. He would work in this capacity in cities in Arizona and California. At one point, he taught HVAC courses in the evenings at San Diego College while maintaining his day job.

After his retirement in 2004, he and “BJ” came to Aberdeen where they have since resided.

He was a devoted family man and loved spending time with his sons and grandchildren. Mr. Stielau was an avid fisherman, be it stream, lake or ocean fishing. He also enjoyed Sudoku puzzles.

In addition to his wife “BJ”, he is survived by three sons, Jim, Eric and Frank and their spouses; six grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, May 31, 2017, at the parish center at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Aberdeen.

Cremation with an urn committal intended at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery in the San Diego area, will be done at a later date.

Direction is by the Coleman Mortuary in Hoquiam.

Please take a few moments to record your thoughts for the family by signing the on line guest register at www.colemanmortuary.net.