Edward Lindsay Birnie

Edward "Ed" Lindsay Birnie, age 84, of Swartz Creek, Michigan, passed away peacefully on March 15, 2026. A graveside service will be held 2PM Tuesday May 26 at Great Lakes National Cemetery, 4200 Belford Road, Holly, Michigan. 

Ed proudly served in the United States Navy as an aircraft mechanic. He later owned and operated a small engine repair shop and, near the end of his life, became a gunsmith. He loved riding motorcycles, teaching his girls how to drive his new shiny new boats, deer hunting, reloading his own ammunition, and spending time up north at the B’s Club hunting cabin. He also enjoyed his morning coffee, vanilla ice cream for breakfast, watching Lions Football with Keith and the boys and doing things his own way.

Ed will be remembered for his grit, humor, strong opinions, and unforgettable spirit. He had a legendary scowl that melted the moment a grandchild walked into the room. His family will deeply miss his steady, albeit stubborn, guidance, the sound of the news blaring from his room, and the lifelong friendship he shared with his best friend, Marv.

He is survived by his daughters, Lindsay (Keith) Birnie-Decator and Lillian (Dave) Birnie-Wieder; his grandchildren, Kyler Chase Dixon, Hudson Jacob LaBranche, Isley Beth Bennett, Christian Alexander-Michael Decator, Lucas Andrew Decator, and other beloved grand and great-grand children; his brothers, G. Lyall (Doreen) Birnie, Reed Birnie, and Craig Birnie; and many other cherished family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gordon Lyall Birnie Sr. and Lillian Marie Brevik; his granddaughter, Ava; his great-granddaughter, Scarlett; and his nephew, Capt. Colin Birnie.

Deeply missed. Lovingly remembered as Pops