Edward Arthur Bilson

Edward Arthur Bilson was born July 6, 1943 to Tom and Betty Bilson in Globe, AZ. He grew up on “The Hill” in ICCCo housing along with his younger sister Margaret. He attended Miami schools, graduating in 1961. He attended the U of A where he obtained his Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering and Master’s Degree in Metallurgical Engineering. Ed entered the United States Army in November 1966 and took basic training at Fort Bliss, Texas. At Fort Polk, La., he enrolled in advanced Infantry training, applied for, was accepted, and turned down officers’ candidate school. He qualified as an expert on all weapons and earned the National Defense Service Medal. Ed served his country in the Vietnam War as a Company Clerk until 1969, and remained in the Reserves until 1972. Ed started working for ICCCo in 1972 and retired from Phelps Dodge in 2006 after a successful 34 year career at the same mine site where he grew up. His expertise and dedication led to his many contributions in the mining industry; including having his name on several patents. His friends and colleagues respectfully referred to Ed as “the Wizard” and knew if there was a problem that needed to be solved; Ed was the man to see. As if one successful career weren’t enough, Ed returned to work in 2006 with Quadra Mining LTD. as Manager Projects – Metallurgy and retired from KGHM in 2013. Ed married the love of his life, Sue in 1987 who he lovingly referred to as his “Wife Mate”, and instantly became a devoted father and grandpa; a roll in which he excelled in every way. They shared a loving marriage of nearly 28 years during which he adored, nurtured, encouraged, and provided for her in every way. His constant love, support, and dedication to his family can never be replaced. He lived life to the fullest, enjoying racing dirt bikes; running in 5K and 10K races; studying astronomy; photography; and even working as a ranch hand for the Hicks one summer, and was an avid player of the Arizona Lottery. It was rare to see Ed without his 64oz Thirst Buster from Circle K, or without a pen in his pocket. Left behind in loving memory are his wife: Clara Sue Bilson; Daughters: Deborah Lavin (Fred) and Ellen Beydler; Grandchildren: Kevin Horta (Sabrina), Kendall Horta (Justin), Kelsey Horta, Trevor Horta, and Freddie Lavin; and his pride and joy: Great-Granddaughter Loghan Williamson. Ed touched the lives of so many people. Respected by everyone he ever met, Ed will always be remembered as “The Best Man They Ever Knew”. He will never be forgotten. Funeral services will be held on Friday, March 6, 2015 at 10:00 A.M. at Lamont Mortuary Chapel in Globe, AZ