Edward James Koudele

Edward James Koudele passed away peacefully on November 30, 2025, in Cheyenne, Wyoming, at the age of 94. 

Ed was born on July 5, 1931, in Schuyler, Nebraska, to loving parents Edward A. Koudele and Ella L. Coufal. He grew up in Nebraska and graduated as an accomplished athlete from Tekamah High School; before serving his family, community, and country throughout his life. 

Ed proudly enlisted in the U.S. Navy on November 30, 1950, serving as an air controller until October 29, 1954. Following his military service, he began a successful career with General Motors and later retired from 3M as a highly respected and accomplished businessman. 

On February 5, 1962, Ed married Shirley LaVonne (Beardsley) Koudele, and together they created a beautiful life rooted in love, laughter, and unwavering commitment. They raised their three children in Sterling, Colorado, before moving to Cheyenne, Wyoming, in 1970. 

Ed is survived by his brother Fredrick (Kathleen) Koudele, his children: Robert (Connie) McCaslin, Mark (Laura) McCaslin, and Kim Scott. He was the proudest grandfather to twelve grandchildren: Brad (Erin) McCaslin, Terri (Christian) Graham, Katie (Jason) Coonts, Shanna Barnhill, Aaron McCaslin, Michael McCaslin, Sam McCaslin, Jacole Scott (Jimmy Allen), Michael Scott (Jessica), Shae Risheill (Jordan Colbert), Jacy Turner, Rick Risheill; sixteen great-grandchildren: Gabrielle McCaslin (Jaden Walley), Kelton McCaslin, Bodey McCaslin, Adrian Graham, Uriah Graham, Jackson (Lexi) Coonts, Patrick Coonts, Colton Coonts, Kodi Coonts, Conner Scott (his mother, Jennifer Potter), Ember St. Onge, Marley Hudson, Vanessa Hudson (Zane Johnson), Ma’Naia Johnson, Onolina Johnson and Maverick Risheill; and two great-great grandchildren: Aubree and Knox Walley. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. 

Ed was preceded in death by his beloved wife Shirley, and his parents. Throughout his life, Ed was known for his strong work ethic, gentle humor, and unwavering dedication to his family. He worked tirelessly to provide for those he loved and was always ready with a helping hand or a wise word. He enjoyed traveling/exploring new things, fishing/hunting, his horses, creative cooking/baking, his after-meal walks, and staying active just so he could always enjoy more pie. His quiet strength and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. 

Ed’s legacy is one of love, integrity, patience, devotion, and generosity. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends, but his memory will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him. 

A celebration of Ed’s life will be held December 10, 2025, at Wiederspahn Radomsky Chapel of The Chimes at 10 am. Reception following the service will be held in the attached gathering hall and interment with Military Honors will be held at 1pm at the Cheyenne National Cemetery.