Carl "Ed" Calkins

Carl “Ed” Edwin Calkins June 16, 1938 - April 23, 2023.

Ed was born in Shawnee, Ks to Carl and Gladys (Routh) Calkins.

A lifelong resident of Shawnee, Kansas, Ed began his education at Kansas City Christian School, then went on to attend Shawnee Grade School and Shawnee Mission High School.  After graduating high school, he served in the Kansas City Missouri National Guard.  He joined his father, mother, and brother Elbert in working for the family’s small business, Calkins Electric Supply Co. that his father founded in 1946. He retired from the business in 2000.

Ed loved being surrounded by family and friends, working on his antique trucks, and playing poker. He was funny at heart, but direct and stern when necessary.  Above all else, he made certain that everyone around him was taken care of.  He will be remembered for his clever wit, never ending support, vast automotive knowledge, and competitive poker playing.  But most of all, he will be remembered for his caring heart.

Ed is survived by his wife of 64 years, Suella, and their children and spouses Wendi & Bob Levitt, Chris & Tammie Calkins, and Jeff & Tara Calkins.  Grandchildren Matthew (Karen) Lowe, Kaleigh Calkins, Elizabeth (Dustin) Meck, Nicole (Anthony) Crafton, Ian (Liz) Calkins, and Shane Calkins.  Great Grandchildren Allister Calkins, Gage Crafton, Makenzie Crafton, and Colt Meck.  Sister and brother-in-law Diane & Jim Freitag, sister-in-law Karen Hathaway, and sister-in-law Sue Calkins.  He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Elbert Calkins, and brother-in-law Eddie Hathaway.

A visitation will be held at Southminster Presbyterian Church, 6306 Roe Ave, Prairie Village, KS 66208 on Sunday April 30, 2023 from 2:30pm to 4:00pm, with a memorial service at 4:00pm.  Following the service, friends and family are welcome to join us at the church’s Fellowship Hall for some finger food and light snacks.