K M Gillen

Ed Connelly

HOW THIS MEMORIAL CAME TO BE: On October 15, 2017, I felt a strong urge to reconnect with an important person from my past in Boston — Ed Connelly. Though we knew each other only for a short time, the role he played in my life was no less significant than with others I knew much longer. I never forgot Ed and the great times we had, but our lives had taken different paths a long time ago. And though I never attempted to reconnect, today felt distinctly different. An invisible voice seemed to nudge me, encourage me, almost guide me, so this time I decided to make that attempt. I became filled with excitement of what I was sure would be an extremely rewarding phone reunion. I expected lots of laughter and craziness, and then we’d hang up, and go back to our lives, but with a feeling of satisfaction and contentment. That’s all I was anticipating. But my search ended almost the moment it began. The shock from seeing his obituary stopped me in my tracks. I was completely unprepared for this outcome. I struggled to believe it, but the crushing reality began to sink in. Suddenly I became aware that today’s date, October 15th, was the 7th anniversary of his death. A powerful sense of loss and mourning flooded me, but then, I sensed my original goal shifting, rather than ending. I immediately felt compelled to act, to "preserve" and honor Ed's life. Since I conduct historical and genealogical research on families with roots in New England, this new focus felt tailor-made for me. The feeling was so palpable that it did not seem at all like coincidence. It felt like a calling to make sure that Eduardo was remembered. This took me on a physical journey to meet people who also knew Ed and to learn everything I could to help me fill the gaps. Ed’s life mattered. He died far too young but did many vibrant things in that short time. I was determined to make sure his death was not in vain. This also became a spiritual journey of my own; to embrace, to celebrate, and ultimately, to have closure. This memorial is the result. I voluntarily took on the role of Sponsor for the commemoration of Eduardo. I have compiled photos, memories, stories, mementos, and news articles. This is also a platform for others who wish to pay tribute to Ed. I have also sponsored his Findagrave.com site and have contributed all of my research for anyone interested. The moral to this story: Reach out to people from your past before you no longer have that option. My deepest gratitude to MAT and JVH for their time, energy, and generosity. I could not have realized this tribute without them. ____________________________ My Eulogy: IT GOES WITHOUT SAYING that Ed was a very special man and an all-around great guy. But to me, and to many others, he was much more than that. Genuine, kind, and exceptionally charming, Eduardo was a gentle, caring, and sweet boy-soul. He was a soft-spoken, sensitive spirit who radiated tenderness and magnetism. He was handsome, sexy, and undeniably cool and charismatic. His warm eyes sparkled when he talked. His mirthful laughter was irrepressible. His winsome smile—completely irresistible. Ed was a creative and clever man who spun life’s moments into joy and laughter, both for himself and for others. He was generous and thoughtful and he loved to have fun. He was intelligent and articulate, customizing his communication with his own brand of droll humor. Buoyed by his bold and brave nature, he learned to reinvent himself when life presented challenges. When faced with his most personal struggles, Ed was especially fearless, resolute to the end. He was also a hybrid angel-devil, and of course, human too. Mischievous and exceedingly playful, Ed got away with some things that others would never dream of trying. Self-assured and proud, cocky and sassy, he was undaunted by other's opinions and unabashedly certain of his own. The devil-side could be impudent and unforgiving, audacious and boastful. But Eduardo deftly crafted all of his traits into an enviable Modus Operandi which included crackling wit, satirical commentary, and sarcastic "sick" humor. The man was smooth. Eduardo wove a kind of magic throughout his life that captivated and enchanted those lucky to be in his sphere. His time on earth created an enduring fondness for him that transcends both time and distance. To me, he was a super-fun friend, a trustworthy confidant, and a high-spirited enjoyable companion. Ed, Edward, Eduardo -- I am proud to say that I knew you. KMG, 15 October 2017

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