Edwin Carl Kotajarvi passed away on April 30, 2023 at the age of 83. He was born in 1939 in Laurium, Michigan to Edwin and Martha Kotajarvi. He was the oldest of five, Edwin, Stan, Kirsten, Clayton, and Karen. He lived in the U.P. of Michigan in his younger years and then Southfield, Michigan in the lower peninsula. Ed graduated from Southfield High, Wayne State University and received his Master's degree at the University of Michigan. He was a teacher for Detroit Public Schools for 39 years. Ed met the love of his life, Janet, and they have been married for 64 years and have two children, Paul and Carol (Steve), six grandchildren, Kyle (Tiffany), Jacob, Melissa, Christopher, Kaylin and Ethan. Also, four great-grandchildren, Owen, Edwin, Elora, and Ezekiel. Ed was a loving, caring, supportive, hard-working, and fun-loving person. His life's journey has been anchored by his faith in our Lord and Savior. Ed will be forever in our hearts, as we have so many treasured memories. Per the family's request, memorial contributions can be made to Emmanuel Lutheran Church (see link below).