Edward James Hiner

Edward James Hiner, age 67, of Shepherd, passed away Friday, October 30, 2026, at Henry Ford Hospital. He was born August 31, 1959, the son of John “Jack” and Jackie (McMahon) Russell.

Ed was an outdoorsman who enjoyed camping, fishing, and hunting. In his younger years, he enjoyed racing motorcycles. A true jack of all trades, Ed loved figuring out how to do things on his own and took great pride in his ability to tackle just about any project. He was a hardworking man who took great pride in his work throughout his life. Over the years, he worked as a Teamster truck driver, proudly driving through “every state, minus Alaska and Hawaii!”, hauling freight and transporting oversized equipment for the pipeline. 

Ed married Sally Heidger on November 8, 1986. He treasured spending quality time with his family and friends and especially enjoyed bringing everyone together. He was deeply invested in the lives of his children and grandchildren, always interested in what they were doing, proud of what they accomplished, and eager to support whatever mattered to them. Their successes became his, their joys became his, and he never missed an opportunity to let others know just how proud he was of them. 

He loved cooking for large family gatherings and was well known for his pancakes. Ed had a wonderful sense of humor and a contagious laugh that could brighten any room. Some of his favorite nights were spent around a poker table playing Texas Hold ’Em with friends. He loved the game, but even more than the cards, he loved the people around the table. He found genuine happiness in seeing others happy and was always up for an adventure, even if it meant taking a two-hour drive just to see the Mackinac Bridge or enjoy the beautiful fall colors.

Ed was an avid Detroit Tigers fan and a devoted member of Faith Lutheran Church in Mount Pleasant, where he faithfully served on the church council. His faith, family, and friendships were important parts of his life, and he will be remembered for his hardworking nature, his willingness to help others, and the joy and laughter he brought to those around him. 

Ed is survived by his loving wife, Sally; five children, Kyle Edward Hiner of Lansing, Ryan Hiner (Samantha Rosa) of Fort Myers, Florida, Caitlyn (Patrick) O’Neil of Canton, Eryka Hiner of Mount Pleasant, and David Hiner of St. Louis; four grandchildren, Kamryn, Prestynn, Paxton, and Stevie; three siblings, Linda Fonger of Muskegon, Charles “Chuck” (Lily) Hiner of Tonganoxie, Kansas, and John (Kim) Russell of Spring Lake; special family friend, Jordan Gentry of Riverdale; and several nieces and nephews.

Ed was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Tony Hiner; and nephew, Garth Allen.

Funeral services for Ed will be held Friday, November 6, 2026, at 4 p.m. at Faith Lutheran Church in Mount Pleasant, with visitation from 3 p.m. until the time of service. Visitation will also be held Thursday, November 5, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the church.

Memorial contributions may be made in Ed’s honor to Faith Lutheran Church of Mount Pleasant.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Berry Funeral Home of Shepherd.