Baxa, Edward J. Went home to his Savior on August 17, 2011, at the age of 87 years. Loving husband of Kaye Baxa (nee McLaughlin). Respected father of Mike (Mary), Julie (Frank Beasley), Laurie (Mike) Shimeta, Lynn, Cindy (Jeff) Junek. Proud grandpa of Nikey (Brian) Mattson; Cheryl (Jason) Hall, Scott Shimeta; Jim (Traci) Baxa, Kevin, Brian, Tara (Joe Lazzaro), Kelly, Dan and Tommy Baxa; Michael, Dan and Ashley (Mike Olszewski) Junek Treasured great-grandpa of Josiah, Eva, Annalise and Calvin Baxa, and Aryn Mattson. Cherished brother of Rosarie Jecha. Dear brother-in-law of Bill (Rosie) and Brian (Susan) McLaughlin. Preceded in death by his parents, ten brothers and sisters. Edward was born in Wayne Kansas on May 12, 1924, and lived on the family farm. He proudly served his country as First Lieutenant, U.S. Army Forces during World War II as a P-38 fighter jet pilot. He earned the WWII Victory Medal and the Asiatic Pacific Service Medal. Following his service to his country, Ed received a Civil Engineering degree from Marquette University. He worked for Employers Insurance of Wausau as Senior Construction Safety Engineer until his retirement in 1991. He was a member of the American Society of Safety Engineers and earned the Harvey Peterson Safety Award. The family wishes to thank the staff at Southpointe and Vitas Ruth Hospice for the exceptional care Ed received.Cemetery:Private interment Holy Cross Cemetery.Service:Private family services being held at St. Mary Catholic Faith Community Church.