Happy Birthday, Ed!
What a positive impact you’ve had, and still have, on so many! You are never far away and always in our thoughts. With much gratitude and love!

I think these yearly emails are a nice reminder to take a moment to appreciate those we have lost. For many on here Ed was a friend, a father, a husband, a role model. For me Ed is important because of the impact he made on those that I care about- Will, Gigi, Mimi.... And also because his sudden passing was a lesson for me that you don't always get to say goodbye or leave when you are expecting, so make sure you say the important things today rather than tomorrow. People make impacts on our lives everyday, that's Ed's for me. Getting that email is a way for me to be sure to remember an important piece of my friends, but also to remember that lesson.

A flyover across Washington, DC featuring 56 vintage planes in 15 formations honored the 70th anniversary of the victory in Europe today. It also happens to be Ed's birthday. Lisa and I visited Ed at Arlington today. We were fortunate to witness the flyover from Ed's grave site. It was a beautiful May day in DC. The planes flew in front of us before banking left across Memorial Bridge and down Independence Avenue. As some may recall, Ed was to have had a flyover during his service but the poor weather conditions of that day, kept the jets grounded in Norfolk. Although the event was to commemorate VE Day and those that sacrificed so much during WWII, we were certain there was a bit of tribute reserved for this special Marine Aviator who served our nation in Korea and Vietnam. Especially, when the Missing Man Formation flew by our vantage point.

A few years have passed since the day Ed left all of us, and the day of that driving rain during his burial. I'm certain, if like me, you all feel that he is never far, always in our thoughts, and continues to guide and lead us forward in our own personal journey through life.

Two nights ago, I was at a business dinner with four people that I'm just beginning to become acquainted. A good conversation was being had with our meal. Somehow, the banter got around to a sharing of stories, and then on to "unusual questions" we've all been asked at times across our careers --- you know, like during an interview you're asked, "if you were a tree, what kind would you be, etc". All of our heads were shaking as we grinned. One of the dinner guests then brought forward the one, "Dead or alive, if you could have dinner with one person, who would it be?". That same question was then put to each dinner guest.

"Jesus", followed by several other famous persons, was put forth.
As you have already anticipated, when it came my turn, I simply stated, "my father-in-law, Brigadier Edward A. Parnell".

Naturally, this answer created a pause, followed by curiosity, and then an inquiry as to "why". I conveyed to them the type, and the character of the man we all love. The gentlemen across the table assumed I must not have had the opportunity to spend much time with Ed. He asked me how many dinners I had with Ed. I told him, "Hundreds if not a thousand. Perhaps a slight exaggeration, but certainly many, many more than I could have ever had hoped. But for me, to have one more dinner with him, would be more than precious and beyond wonderful".

I then told them that my only fear about my answer, is that it is most likely the same answer of thousands of people who knew Ed. If that be the case, I can only pray I'm not at the end of the line, because I certainly will go hungry as I await my turn in that chow line behind all the many ahead.

I left the dinner that night knowing four people had just been introduced to the General. How fortunate they had just become. Almost... almost... as fortunate as we many, that shook his hand, had a chat, shared a smile, and broke bread with him. What a great gift his birth has been to all of us that were privileged to have crossed his path.

Happy Birthday, Ed! Thanks for the gift of your ever lasting friendship and presence! Though you are with us always, we miss you!
_____________________

"He has achieved success who has lived well, laughed often and loved much; who has gained the respect of intelligent men and the love of little children; who has filled his niche and accomplished his task; who has left the world better than he found it, whether by an improved poppy, a perfect poem, or a rescued soul; who has never lacked appreciation of earth’s beauty or failed to express it; who has always looked for the best in others and given them the best he had; whose life was an inspiration; whose memory a benediction." ~Bessie Stanley, 1905

One evening this week we had the family for dinner. Hogfish was featured. It brought memories of Ed and Nancy's love of fishing and of the huge Hogfish they caught off Tilloo Cay in the Bahamas. Catching Hogfish with rod and reel is very unusual.  It was the largest one l know of caught that way. We all participated in a delicious dinner thanks ti Ed and Nancy.

Hard to believe that it has been 2 years since we lost this great man. Think I will have a chocolate milkshake in honor of him and his family today. Just wish I could do it at Dumsers. Be well in heaven General, Husband, Father and Da Da. You will be forever missed.

Ted and I miss you every day because every day we see, hear or say something that reminds us of you. Ted misses you on the phone when interesting news occurs and he knows you 2 would have the same reaction! I miss you for how much you cared about my academic and personal achievements. The photos posted here in Aspen, Niagara Falls and Florida are our fondest memories of us being with you.

I still can't believe we have lost such a wonderful man. We miss him with as much feeling of loss as two years ago. I miss my friend Nancy too....we four had such good times together for so many fun years. I am happy we made so many good memories, because in the end, thats all we have. I know that Ed is loved as much where he is now as by all those that loved him here. love to his family

Dearest Ed, thinking of you and keeping you always in our hearts. Much love to Nancy, Linda and Harry

Ed was one of a kind, a truly nice man, It was a blessing and a privilege to be his friend. Our fondest memories of the Bahamas are linked to Ed and Nancy and their love of the islands, the sea and fishing, And most of all the camaraderie.

We will all miss the “Gaffer”

although i didnt really know him well, the few times that we did speak i truly enjoyed his wisdom and words...heaven has received another angel and i know that he will be looking down on all of us...i pray for you nancy and family...always in my thoughts...RIP Ed...

JIM AND I ARE STILL IN SHOCK AND GRIEVING THE LOSS OF OUR DEAR DEAR FRIEND...WORDS CANT WORK,CANT CONVEY, CANT MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN HOW WE FEEL. WE ARE AT SUCH A LOSS OF THIS DEAR MAN. ITS TRULY THE END OF AN ERA FOR SUCH A TRUE GENTLEMAN. OUR HEARTS ARE BROKEN.

My entire family was saddened by Eds passing.He had the ability to relate to multiple generations.He had a quiet strength,a gentle soul and a profound love of family.He had the "right stuff" that we can learn from his generation.He will be missed.

Dada, I miss you terribly. Thank you for being my mentor, advocate and loving Dad. Mostly, thank you for the joy you brought to my mother. I will try very hard to be the happy, vital woman you knew I could be!

I have never met a more outstanding person in my entire life. Ed was a tremendous roll model for everyone. The world is a much diminshed place with his passing. My best to his entire family.

A tribute from the UMUC Alumni Association:
http://www.umucalumni.org/

I had the honor and pleasure of knowing Ed and Nancy for eleven years working as their housekeeper. I was sorry to know about his passing. I have the greatest respect for Ed and I will truly miss working for him and his generous nature and remarkable sense of humor. Janet & Benny

Very rarely in life does that fellow come along that you know by his achievements his core is made of rock and hardened sinew, yet the only expression you see by him is humility, selflessness, and gentle kindness. His example gave us all something to strive for. Flip Tomaselli

FROM FRIEND RICHARD TOYNBEE: "Ed was my CO w/1stMAW in DaNang in 1968. He was a fine man and the finest officer I ever served with. Still remember his grin when he surprised me with my promotion to Sgt.:) I know the "Sky Pilot" has Ed under his wing now. Semper Fi"

AS SAID SO ELOQUENTLY BY SKIP COLLINS: "He was a great man. A joy to be around. A real family man, helpful to all. An elder statesman. The embodiment of all that is good about America. He died doing what he loved and he will be missed and remembered. Peace."

We just met Ed & Nancy this past winter as neighbors in Vero Beach. We didn't know Ed well, but thoroughly enjoyed his company and looking forward to this coming winter. Nancy, take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel watching over you.

The General was a true gentleman and the kindest person I have ever met.While living there for a year, I marveled at his calm, kind demeanor,always ready to help, with so much patience.My heart is saddened by your loss. We will miss you "Gentle Giant". Rest in peace!

Dear Nancy and family,
We hope the many happy experiences you shared with Ed over the years will give you peace in the days ahead. He was a kind and loving man and will rest in peace with fellow loyal Americans. God Bless You. Jean & Bob

As I watch all the wonderful photos passing by on this page, it is obvious how loved Ed is and how much he has meant to so very many people around the world. Missing you so, El Guapo. Catch a wave for me in heaven. Linda

It is very rare to meet someone fleetingly and that they make so great an impression. Ed was one of those people. We will remember him fondly and with great affection. Rest in peace, Ed and may your memory be a blessing to all who love you.P&R x

No words to express my great deep sorrow.A great Gentle, kind, caring, love of country, family, and friends.Ed loved and lived life to its fullest every day!I am blessed to have known and loved Ed's life.God Bless, Connie Warren Cadwell

Oh Dada, my heart is broken and there is a void that can never be filled. You mean the world to me and I thank you for giving me your fatherly love and affection. Our home, your "favorite Hotel" will never be the same without you. You are my sweetest angel now and always. ILYVM

Grandfather Ed,
  You were one of the greatest men I've even know. You leave a legacy behind that will be hard to match. But I'm going to try my best! I promise that I will take care of Mimi for you. WHOA, PONYSOLDIER!! I love you, Will

It's the rarest of men, that has left us. He was what all should be. His character was above anyone I've ever known. His humanity & service were a constant throughout his life. His humor, music, & fellowship made each day a joyous occasion. He was my friend, my family, my hero!

Cousin Eddie and I spoke in February when my father (Quentin) passed away at age 90 (a few days before he would have been 91. Two great men have left us this year. Two men who changed the lives of hundreds of people. May God bless Ed's family as they grieve. Elaine

I'm really going to miss the DADA. He was the best man i have ever known without a doubt. I never heard a word of gossip or evil come from his mouth. My brother explained to me that his soul was just too big, too young for his body. Heaven is blessed to have him.

Jim and I are shocked to hear the news. We send to Nancy and her family our deepest sympathy. Ed was a delightful person and we were so fortunate to have known him here in Vero Beach, FL

Never having grandparents of my own, I looked at Ed and Mimi as an example of the grandparents I always wish I had. Heaven just got a good man. Ed seemed to celebrate life and now lets celebrate his. I pray for the family and am thankful Mimi has loved ones around. God Bless.