Edson Arnold Eggen

Edson A. Eggen, 79, passed away peacefully on August 12, 2025, in Salt Lake City, Utah, surrounded by love. A memorial service will begin at 1:30 PM Saturday, October 4, 2025, at St. Jacob’s Lutheran Church, rural Colton, South Dakota.

Ed was born on June 11, 1946, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Ed was raised on a farm outside Colton, SD, where he developed a lifelong appreciation for hard work. After graduating from high school, he went on to attend Dakota State University in Madison, SD.

Ed married Joyce Eggen (Swier) in 1968 and they made their home in Balaton, MN along with their son Jeff. Ed’s career as a dedicated high school teacher in Balaton left a lasting impact on generations of students who remembered him for his warmth, wit, and ability to inspire. Joyce passed away in 1991 after a long battle with Ataxia, a loss Ed managed with strength and grace. Ed was Joyce’s angel, caring for her over the years.

In 1994, Ed married Pamela Eggen (Kinsman), and together they shared a beautiful life in Pipestone, MN and later Hartford, SD. Ed loved working in his shop, where his creativity and talents thrived. Eventually, they moved west to Mesquite, Nevada—drawn by being closer to family and sunshine. It was there that Ed enjoyed his true passion: golf. For a time, he played nearly every day, embracing the challenge and love of the game.

Ed had a big heart and a deep love for his family. He treasured every visit, every call, and every shared laugh. He and Pam traveled often, with cruises to Alaska standing out as favorite memories. He also enjoyed weekly games of cribbage and dominoes with friends, the occasional casino adventure, and a never-ending quest to find the perfect car—often swapping vehicles just for the fun of it, to the amusement of those who knew him well.

In recent months, Ed faced health challenges following a stroke. He met the challenge with courage and dignity.

Ed is survived by his beloved wife, Pamela Eggen (Kinsman), and his children: Jeff Eggen (Chris), Jennifer Smith (Greg), Erika Wright (William), and Whitney Evans (Jamie). He was a proud grandfather to Teranea Swanson (Zach), Miya Filler, Avery Shapley (Bryson), Karley Shapley, Conner Wack, and Maggie Wack, and a joyful great-grandfather to Ashton, Georgia Rae, and Murphy. He also leaves behind his brother- and sister-in-law, Terry and Kay Kinsman, with whom he shared a deep and enduring bond.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Joyce; his parents, Arnold and Ellen Eggen (Fods); his sister, Carol Borchardt (Eggen), as well as many cherished relatives and dear friends who held a special place in his heart.

Ed will be remembered for his unwavering love, gentle humor, and the kindness he extended to all who knew him. His legacy lives on in his family and the many lives he touched along the way.

He will be dearly missed—especially by his wife Pam, who is currently recovering from a stroke herself, at a rehab facility in Utah.