Updated 9/08/2010 @ 10:05PM

Among the organizations on which the late Edwin Dils left his mark...is the Parkersburg Area Community Foundation.

In fact, its current director, Judy Sjostedt, said that it was Dils who started the organization in 1963...and served as its first director.

He was involved in all of its major projects...including the PACF's new offices, which will be located near Parkersburg City Park.

Under Dils' leadership...the foundation went from having no money at all...to awarding more than a million dollars in grants last year.

"Right up through this year, he participated in our board meetings," Sjostedt said Wednesday. "He was actively engaged in everything we did. Our organization would not exist without Mr. Dils leadership and his initiative in founding the organization."

Funeral services for Ed Dils will be held at the First United Methodist Church in Parkersburg on Saturday, September 11, at 11 in the morning.

No visitation is planned.

Burial will follow at Riverview Cemetery with military graveside rites by the American Legion Post #15.

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Edwin L.D. Dils, one of Wood County's most well-known businessmen and community leaders, has died.

Dils was honored in July 2009 for more than half a century of service on the board of directors of Community Bank.

Dils also was known for heading the Dils Department Store on Market Street in Parkersburg for decades. He also helped establish the Parkersburg Area Community Foundation and other organizations.

"I appreciate so much the friends and the opportunities I've had as a young man, and as I've grown over the years to share with the growth of our community," Dils told WTAP-TV in a July 2009 interview.

"Long after he retired from business, Mr. Dils contributed countless time and energy to numerous community projects," in a statement from Wood County Commissioner Rick Modesitt. "Whenever there was a worthy ciommunity project or committee to serve on, Mr. Dils was heavily involved. His contributions to our community are many, and he will be missed."

"Mr. Dils has been a major influence on local business and the local community for several years. His commitment went beyond his personal business and family in supporting several charities. His contribution to this community will be realized for many decades into the future," in a statement from Parkersburg Mayor Bob Newell.

A funeral service is scheduled for 11:00 am, Saturday, at First United Methodist Church at 1001 Juliana Street in Parkersburg.

WTAP will pass along more information as we receive it.