Edward J. "Ed" Stanley, of Crooked Lake, WI, formerly of Appleton, age 74, passed away unexpectedly at home on December 23, 2012. He was born on December 21, 1938 in Birch Creek Township, WI to the late George "Pat" and Suzanne (Duval) Stanley. Ed married Janice Sanders on June 23, 1962 at St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church in Little Chute. They just celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary this past June. He served in the United States Army Reserve. Ed worked at Hertz in Appleton for over 42 years until his retirement in 2009.

Ed was an avid fisherman and hunter. He was known for his cooking as well as his many secret recipes. Ed could usually be found in the kitchen or at his smoker making sausage or smoked fish. He also raced short track stock cars for many years in the 60's and 70's.

Ed is survived by his wife of 50 years, Janice "Jan" Stanley; children: Brenda (Rick) Austin and Scott (Diane) Stanley, all of Crooked Lake; 12 grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren; and brothers: Joe (Leanne) of Mapleton, ND and Les (Althea) of Sparta. He is further survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

In addition to his parents, Ed was preceded in death by Jan's parents: Lloyd "Porky" and Stella Sanders.

Visitation will be held Friday December 28, 2012 at ST. JOHN NEPOMUCENE CATHOLIC CHURCH (323 S. Pine St. Little Chute) beginning at 11:00 a.m. until time of Mass at 1:00 p.m. The Rev. Ronald Belitz will officiate. Military rites conducted by the Jacob Coppus American Legion Post 258 will immediately follow.