Lincoln, IL — Edward P. Malerich, 84, of Lincoln, passed away July 17, 2025, at Springfield Memorial Hospital.
A true “Renaissance Man,” Ed was an actor, author, playwright, champion fencer, carpenter, amateur historian, enthusiast of antique black powder weapons, and black belt in karate. He began his acting career at the Pasadena Playhouse and toured nationally with José Ferrer in a production of Cyrano. Edward wrote a play, “Legend of the Sword,” which was produced in New York City at The American Theatre of Actors. He later lent his voice to documentaries on The Military Channel and Discovery Channel.
Edward was the author of three published novels including The Wooden Sword, The Miscast Gentleman, and The Pirate of Hitchfield. He was a 1958 graduate of Lincoln Community High School and attended Lincoln College.
Edward was born on October 21, 1940, in Moline, Illinois, the son of Edward M. Malerich and Virginia House Malerich.
He is survived by his daughter, Brooke (Peter) Egbert; two grandchildren, Holly Egbert and Scott Egbert; two brothers, John F. Malerich and Thomas M. Malerich; and two sisters, Mary E. Malerich Ellinghaus and June Malerich Humphreys.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Cremation Rites were accorded; interment at Camp Butler National Cemetery will be held at a later date.
Memorials may be made to the Humane Society of Logan County.
Peasley Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.
