Obituary

Edward Achenbach, 78, of Goodyear, Arizona passed away on April 12, 2021.  He was born April 2, 1943 to Edgar and Evelyn Achenbach in Indianapolis, Indiana.  Ed is survived by his wife, Betty, of 56 years, a brother George Achenbach, sisters, Alice Fisher and Edna (Don) Vaught, sister in law, Barbara Hughes, and many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents Edgar and Lena Achenbach, Evelyn and Malachy Kelly, son Eddie and sister Patty Hack.

Ed was an Air Force Veteran of 20 years who retired at the rank of MSgt. He traveled from Arizona, (where he met his wife, Betty Hughes, Ajo, Arizona), then traveled to Alaska, Omaha, Nebraska, (where he married Betty), to the Philippines, Viet Nam, Texas, Italy, (where his son was born), then Turkey and finally to England where he retired.  After retirement, he moved to Indianapolis where he worked for Reilly Tar and Chemical for another 20 years.  Following his second retirement he worked five years for Taylor Distributors, servicing frosty machines, traveling all over Indiana.  Also, during this time he played golf.  In 2007, when Betty retired from the school system, they moved to Arizona where Ed enjoyed golfing at different golf courses and made many friends.  Ed also was a life time member of the VFW where he enjoyed the camaraderie of many veterans.  He loved handing out poppies on Memorial Day and putting flags up on holidays along the streets of Tolleson, Arizona.  The VFW had many car washes and food sales to help in the effort of building a home for their post.  Ed donated monthly for this cause and in lieu of flowers, if you would like, you may donate in the honor of Ed to the VFW Post 6310, P.O. Box 1178, Tolleson, AZ 85353.  Please note on the donation – Post 6310 – Building Fund of Ed Achenbach.

Ed loved going to the Luke AFB gym to exercise several times a week, but likely spent more time in conversation with fellow gym-goers than with the exercise machines.  Ed was a kind, generous man who could connect with anyone.  He enjoyed attending the Indianapolis 500 with friends and met many drivers and race fans during his excursions to the racetrack.  During their retirement years, Ed and Betty enjoyed traveling and reconnecting with friends they had made during their time in the Air Force.  They enjoyed welcoming many friends into their home during the beautiful Arizona winters, showing them the many sights of their home state.  Ed will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.  “I love you today,”

There will be no services held in Arizona.  Ed will be buried at a later date in Indiana, next to their son Eddie.