News Summary
Edward Deeb, a prominent business leader and community advocate in Detroit, has passed away at the age of 89. Known for his contributions to the Michigan food and beverage industry and youth advocacy, he founded Metro Detroit Youth Day and received the 477th Point of Light Award. His legacy includes improving community relations and supporting local businesses, with honors like ‘Ed Deeb Day’ and a street named in his memory.
Detroit Mourns the Loss of Edward Deeb, Community Advocate and Business Leader
Detroit – Edward Deeb, a prominent business leader and dedicated community advocate in Detroit, passed away at the age of 89 on September 2, 2025, at his home in Bloomfield Township. Deeb was widely recognized for his significant contributions to the Michigan food and beverage industry and his work in promoting youth engagement in the region.
As the president and CEO of the Michigan Food and Beverage Association, Deeb championed the interests of local businesses and played a vital role in fostering relationships among business owners, community stakeholders, and government entities. His leadership was particularly evident as he served as president of the Eastern Market Merchants Association, contributing to the enhancement and collaboration within one of Detroit’s historic markets.
In addition to his business endeavors, Deeb was a passionate advocate for youth, founding the Metro Detroit Youth Day in 1982 in response to rising tensions between Detroit’s diverse communities and local grocers. This annual event, which grew from just over 1,100 attendees to attracting as many as 10,000 participants, embodies his belief in showing youth their value and the support of their communities. Deeb’s initiative earned him the prestigious 477th Point of Light Award from former President George H.W. Bush for his commitment to inspiring young people.
A Legacy of Advocacy and Recognition
Deeb’s contributions to the Detroit community extended beyond his direct involvement with youth programs. He was recognized as one of Detroit News‘ Michiganians in 2001 for his longstanding efforts to improve the local economy and community relations. His advocacy was especially noted after the 1967 Detroit riots, where he documented the impacts on local food stores and worked towards easing the conflicts among various community factions, including Arab and Chaldean store owners and local Black communities.
His significant influence on the community was further commemorated with an “Ed Deeb Day” celebrated at Eastern Market on September 15, 2012. Despite not knowing Deeb personally, community leaders such as Katy Trudeau, president of the Eastern Market Board of Directors, acknowledged his far-reaching impact on the area.
In recognition of his legacy, a street on Belle Isle was named “Edward Deeb Ave.” in 2018, marking the location near where Metro Detroit Youth Day is held. Deeb is also remembered for co-founding numerous organizations that support youth, such as the Michigan Youth Appreciation Foundation and the Michigan State Lottery program.
Personal Life and Community Engagement
Deeb was a graduate of Michigan State University, earning degrees in journalism and advertising in 1960. He demonstrated an ingrained commitment to service, holding leadership positions with organizations such as the American Red Cross and the Detroit Police Chief’s Advisory Council. His contributions to local community action spanned over 40 years in Grosse Pointe Shores, where he led several Parent Teacher Organizations (PTOs) and actively participated in community initiates.
His family recalls many fond memories of him, expressing their profound loss while highlighting the multitude of lives he touched throughout the Metro Detroit area. Deeb, a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and Air Force Reserves, was married to his wife Joanne for more than 58 years and was a proud father to two children and grandfather to five grandchildren, one of whom, Jennifer Kluge, now serves as president and CEO of the National Association for Business Resources.
Visitation and Funeral Arrangements
A visitation for Edward Deeb is scheduled at A.H. Peters Funeral Home from 2-7 p.m. on September 7, 2025. The funeral service will be a private family event.
Edward Deeb leaves behind a rich legacy of community service, entrepreneurial spirit, and unwavering support for youth, making him a revered figure in Detroit’s history.
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HERE Resources
Edward Deeb, Influential Detroit Leader, Passes Away
Additional Resources
- Detroit Free Press: Edward Deeb Obituary
- Wikipedia: Edward Deeb
- Dignity Memorial: Edward Deeb
- Google Search: Edward Deeb
- Detroit News: Edward Deeb Passes Away
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Edward Deeb
Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER
DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
