In Memory of

Dee

W.

Edington

Obituary for Dr. Dee W. Edington

Dr. Dee Wayne Edington passed away on Tuesday, June 21, 2022 at the age of 84.

Dee was a dedicated and caring son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, mentor and friend. From early childhood onward, he demonstrated tremendous ability, scholarship, leadership and character.

He was a passionate researcher, advisor and thought leader on the evidence-based forces elevating health among people and organizations. Trained in mathematics, kinesiology, and biochemistry, Dee received his B.S. and Ph.D. degrees from Michigan State University and completed his M.S. at Florida State University. He completed postdoctoral work at the University of Toronto and taught at the University of Massachusetts before coming to Ann Arbor, Michigan in 1976. Dee’s interests and research into the science and nature of health, wellness and quality of life evolved during his time as professor at the University of Michigan (U-M) and as Director of Kinesiology for 22 years. He founded the Health Management Research Center within the U-M School of Kinesiology and served for 36 years as director promoting research on wellness and health at the workplace. He retired from the University of Michigan as professor emeritus. Dee’s work continues to impact people across the healthcare spectrum and in every industry. He authored or co-authored over 800 articles, presentations, and several books.

Dee spent his childhood in Huntington, Indiana where he was an avid PONY league baseball player and an Eagle Scout. He was an accomplished athlete and earned a swimming scholarship to Michigan State University. Over the years, he coached thousands of swimmers through university level, some of whom went on to become Olympians.

Dee was a world traveler, throughout his career and his personal life. Delta Airlines recognized him for traveling over 2 million miles. He spent summers with family and friends in Skaneateles, New York.

During recent years, anyone Dee spoke with would hear about his love for his family, including the tremendous joy that his grandchildren brought to his life. Dee and his beloved wife Marilyn celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary together earlier this month.

Dee is survived by his wife Marilyn; son, David (Stacie) and grandchildren, Kaiya and Dylan. He was preceded in death by his sister, Sandra.

The family will receive visitors on Saturday, June 25, 2022 from 4:00-6:00 pm at Nie Funeral Home - 3767 W. Liberty Road, Ann Arbor. A Celebration of Life will take place on Sunday, June 26, 2022 at 1:00 pm at Nie Funeral Home - 3767 W. Liberty Road, Ann Arbor and friends are welcome to begin gathering at 12:00 pm.

To honor the memory of Dr. Dee Edington, contributions may be made to the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation (click here) or the Skaneateles Lake Association (click here).

Please sign the Tribute Wall and share a memory of Dr. Edington.