Edward M. Peckwas, 76, a retired Southwest Side businessman, operated Drake Motor Sales and Crane Motor Sales, both on Archer Avenue. He also designed and built the Midway Motel at 49th Street and Cicero Avenue, as well as houses in the area.
A lifelong resident of the Brighton Park neighborhood, he died Sunday in the Fairview Convalescent Center in La Grange.
”Being a car salesman, he could have a conversation with anyone,” his son, Edward, said. ”He was a very outgoing and friendly guy, well-liked by everybody, especially children. He loved to tell stories and was very charming.”
He and a partner founded the Plastic Sign Co., later selling the business. In 1945, he opened Drake Motor Sales and subsequently started Crane Motor Sales and Crane Mercury Motors. It was the city`s largest Mercury dealer at the time.
Mr. Peckwas then constructed the Midway Motel, following it with the Key Motel in Alsip.
In 1964, he bought Beverly Shores Builders and constructed many homes in the Indiana Dunes area, including several on the shore of Lake Michigan.
Besides his son, he is survived by three grandchildren.
Mass for Mr. Peckwas will said at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday in St. Daniel the Prophet Catholic Church, 54th Street and Nashville Avenue.
