Edward "Ed" Jelinek

life story

Ed Jelinek: Kind. Funny. Generous. Devoted. Friendly. Gentle. Thoughtful. Loving. Loved.

Ed left us on Thursday, July 24, 2025, after a long, difficult battle with cancer. We miss him terribly; we always will.

Ed was a multi-faceted man. In addition to being humble, kind, and witty, he was, most notably, a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, son, and friend.

He was also a bargain hunter, booya chef, Brit Box fan, card and casino devotee, cheerleader, cigar aficionado, DIYer, dog lover, former Spam canner, groundskeeper, host with the most, humorist and jokester, master of the grill, Menards enthusiast, metal collector, mixologist, outdoorsman, provider, story teller, and a wheeler and a dealer.

Ed, thank you for giving us the honor and the pleasure of having you in our lives. Thank you for leaving us with such joyous memories!

We will miss you, sweet man.

Ed's Story:

Edward George Jelinek was born August 26, 1950, to Ed and Betty Jelinek. He and his sister, Sandy, grew up on the east side of Saint Paul. Ed graduated from Washington High School. He worked at American Can for 42 years and was "last man standing" when the plant closed.

While in the hospital recovering from a motorcycle accident, Ed met the love of his life, Jan. They married in 1975 and this past May, celebrated their 50 year wedding anniversary.

Ed, with Jan at his side, built a beautiful life in Cottage Grove focused on family, friends, and fun.

Ed was an amazing and proud father to Jason (Keri), Cory (Brian), and Danielle.

Ed was an amazing and proud grandfather to Cedar, Braden, Keegan, Collin, and Evelyn.

Ed was an amazing brother to his sister, Sandy, and uncle to Dawn Robinette (Jana), Donny Robinette (Rhonda), Tommy (Judy) Robinette, and 11 great and 8 great-great nieces and nephews.

Ed was an amazing son-in-law to Peg.

Ed was an amazing brother-in-law to Steve, Sandy, Lynn, Mike, Sue, Mike, Mark, Julie; and uncle to Ellie, Scott, Jeni, Amanda, Dan, Ryan, Jake, Kyle, and Sara, and many great nieces and nephews.

Ed was an amazing person to his many dear friends.

Ed was amazing.

Ed is preceded in death by his dad, Ed Senior; his mom, Betty; and his daughter, the beautiful angel, Danielle.

memorial service

Visitation and Remembrance Service

July 31, 2025

St. Thomas Aquinas Church 920 Holley Ave #1, St Paul Park, MN 55071, USA

Visitation from 10 to 11 AM, Thursday, July 31, at Saint Thomas Aquinas Church

Remembrance service at 11 AM, Thursday, July 31, at Saint Thomas Aquinas Church

SAVE THE DATE: Please join us in celebrating Ed on Saturday, August 16, 2025. Open House from 3 to 7 PM at the Jelinek residence.

Funeral/Cremation Provider: Crescent Tide Cremation Services