~ IN MEMORY ~
Navy veteran, NWA Capt. Edward Joseph Landers
January 27, 1936 ~ March 19. 2026
Ed’s obituary is now available online at https://www.millerfuneralhomedundee.com/memorials/edward-landers/5697447/ Ed is survived by his wife Barbara, and by his
daughters and their families.
For those who may wish to send a personal note to the family, Ed’s
Illinois address is listed in whitepages : 1050 N Spring St, Elgin, IL
60120.
Dear Friends and
Colleagues,
I have been
informed that NWA Captain Edward J. Landers, age 90, passed away yesterday,
March 19th, 2026.
Ed started his
aviation life as a Naval Aviator. His NWA career began on May 06, 1968. Ed
completed a full career with NWA, retiring at 60 years old. In addition to his
NWA career, Ed retired from the US Navy Reserve as a full Commander.
With respect and
gratitude for the many years spent working with Ed.
Bill Day
https://www.tributearchive.com/obituaries/47778404/edward-j-landers
Edward J. Landers Obituary
Commander Edward J. Landers, U.S.N. (Ret.),
age 90, of Elgin, Illinois, and Naples, Florida, passed away peacefully at
home, surrounded by the love and care of his family, on Thursday morning, March
19, 2026.
Ed was born on January 27, 1936, in Terre
Haute, Indiana, to the late Read and Genevieve “Geneva” (née Elliott) Landers.
He grew up with a strong sense of purpose and curiosity that would guide him
throughout his life. He was a proud graduate of the University of Michigan,
where he earned his Bachelor's degree in Business.
Ed devoted 20 years of his life to serving
his country in the United States Navy, retiring as a Commander. A highly
skilled aviator, he flew a wide range of aircraft and found great joy and
purpose in the skies. His time in the Navy reflected his deep sense of duty,
discipline, and quiet leadership.
Following his military service, Ed continued
his lifelong passion for flying with Northwest Airlines, where he built a
distinguished career from 1968 to 1996. As a Captain of the Boeing 747, he
piloted international flights, earning the respect of his colleagues and the
trust of countless passengers. Flying was never just a career for Ed—it was
truly a calling.
Ed made his home in Elgin for over 30 years,
where he was a devoted and faithful member of Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran
Church in East Dundee. His faith was an important part of his life and a steady
source of strength.
Above all, Ed was a devoted husband, father,
and grandfather. He is survived by his beloved wife and best friend of 40
years, Barbara; his daughters, Laura (Gary) Gassel, Christina (Eric) Coleman,
and Margaret Landers; and his cherished grandchildren and great grandchildren,
Dylan, Aidan, Sarah, Cooper, and Sarah Lee (Christopher) Unseth, each of whom
brought him immense pride and joy. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews,
in-laws, and dear friends who will miss him greatly.
In addition to his parents, Ed was preceded
in death by his sister, Janet Louks.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, March 24,
2026, from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 11:00 a.m. at Immanuel
Evangelical Lutheran Church, 310 E. Main Street, East Dundee, with Rev. William
P. Yonker officiating. Burial with military honors will follow at Evergreen
Cemetery in Barrington.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in
Ed's name to the Jeffrey Pride Foundation for Pediatric Cancer Research or to
Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church.
Miller Funeral Home in West Dundee is
assisting the family with arrangements. To leave an online condolence, please
visit www.millerfuneralhomedundee.com or call 847-426-3436 for information.





