Edward O. Kunze

Edward O. Kunze Jr. 86, of Peru, passed away on July 20, 2026, at his residence.

He was born on February 8, 1940, to the late Edward O. “Bud” Kunze and Gwendolyn (Robbins) Kunze, in Cadillac, Michigan.

Ed attended and graduated from Broad Ripple High School in 1959. He attended I.U. of Indianapolis from 1961 to 1962.

He served in the Army from 1963-1965 and was in the Vietnam War. He was a member of the NRA, Christian Rodders and Racer’s Association, National Street Rod Association, AAU, Salvation Army and Indiana Street Rod Association, Kustom Kings Auto Club of Peru, and American Legion. Ed also was a supporter for the America’s Olympic athletes. He worked many places thru the years, Olson Paint & Body, International Car Show Association, Universal Fan, Lowe’s Speed Shop, Square D are just a few to name. Ed also owned Pro Car Care, vehicle detailing shop for many years. He was a road manager where he maintained 7 show vehicles, transporting & displaying them for various events for ZZ Top! Ed was a very spiritual man and attended Peru First Assembly of God.

Ed had a passion for car shows and drag racing cars (“since I was knee high to a grasshopper”). He owned several classic cars over the years, including a 33 Ford Victorian Coupe, 32 Ford Street Rod, 64 Chevy II Nova, 34 Ford Cabriolet, and a 41 Willys.

Survivors include his nephews; Chris Kunze, Kurt (Jill) Anderson, Ryan (Jennifer) Anderson; sister-in-law; Norene Kunze, nieces: Lisa Kunze, Lori (Mark) Miner, Julie (Jean) Bousselaire, many grandnephews and grandnieces, special friends; Lester (Kim) Waldon, Jim (Terrie) Turnpaugh, Tom (Wendy) Mitchell, Brooke Ewer, Norm Knollton, Jerry Hammond, and Tina (Chris) Foht.

He was preceded in death by his sister; Carole J. Anderson, brother; James R. Kunze, special friend; Barb Knollton.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 8, at Riverview Funeral Home, 421 W. Canal St., Peru, with Pastor John Goble and military rites. Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. to the time of service. A gathering will follow at Riverview Event Center with snacks and food provided.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Our Father’s Library or Christian Rodders and Racer’s Association.

Ed’s online guestbook is available, and condolences can be share with the family at www.riverviewfhperu.com.