NWA Capt. Edward Joseph Landers

 

~ 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.

 

PCN memorial site 

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

 

I have been informed that NWA Captain Edward J. Landers, age 90, passed away yesterday, March 19^th, 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.