Edward Thomas Ziemba, age 95, a resident of Wheaton, Illinois and previously longtime resident of Countryside, Illinois, passed away on April 27, 2020 at Wynscape Health and Rehabilitation. He was born on September 23, 1924 in Chicago, Illinois to Thomas and Catherine Ziemba. Ed graduated from Farragut High School and, shortly after graduation, was enlisted by the Army and eventually transferred to the Army Air Corp during World War II. During his tour of duty, Ed served as a ball-turret gunner, flying B-17's out of England successfully completing 34 missions over Germany. On September 18, 1948, Ed married Eleanor Vastlik in Chicago. Ed and Eleanor remained lifelong companions for over 71 years.  After completing several apprentice programs, Ed was hired to be one of the first machinists at Argonne National Laboratory where he worked over 37 years as a Master Tool & Die Maker.

Ed loved the outdoors, if he wasn't working in his yard, he could be found helping a neighbor make repairs to their house or serving his town as a commissioner. He had a quick wit and a winning smile. Ed will be remembered most for the fierce loyalty and dedication that he had for his family.

Ed is survived by his wife Eleanor, his son Scott Ziemba (Eileen Ziemba) his daughter Lori Ziemba (Ken Massaroni), his three granddaughters, Frances Massaroni, Marina Massaroni and Jaclyn Hughes (Jon Hughes), and his great-grandson Emmett Hughes. He was preceded in death by his two brothers Raymond Ziemba and Leonard Ziemba.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a memorial donation be made to Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans @ helpaveteran.org

Due to concerns related to the COVID-19 pandemic, services will be held privately.

Here is a link to a video of the military honors and graveside service: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iajHyw5sVVw&feature=youtu.be