Tribute Wall
Thursday
18
June
Memorial Service
11:00 am
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Christ Church Cathedral
150 Church Street
Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada
Memorial Service
Donations
Donations in Ed’s memory to Parkinson’s Canada, Scouts Canada, The University of New Brunswick, The War Amps, or a charity of one’s choice would be appreciated.
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Greg Hansen posted a condolence
Sunday, July 26, 2026
I'm very sorry to hear about Ed's passing. We were mechanical engineering classmates at UNB and graduated together in1978. Heartfelt Sympathy, Greg Hansen
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Rob Douglas posted a condolence
Saturday, June 20, 2026
Once in a while you have the good fortune to meet a true gentleman. Ed was certainly that. He was well-read, knowledgeable, and one the most intelligent people I know. In his work, he had the ability to stitch together groups of researchers of widely varying backgrounds to complete some task. People wanted to work with the big guy because they knew that their contribution would be respected, that the project would be interesting, and that they would have fun. Taking on a project involving instrumenting a cow's movements was just the sort of thing he'd take on.
His domestic life it was the same, with the emphasis on fun. What better way to spend a Saturday morning sliding a piano down greased planks on the basement stairs? Or spending that afternoon extricating a hide-a-bed's shepherd castors neatly punched into the drywall on the same basement stair when the rope let go? Bernadette could only roll her eyes and find something else safer to do away from the action.
Can't tell you how much I miss my friend.
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Megan Stewart posted a condolence
Friday, June 19, 2026
Dear Bernadette and family, I’m saddened to hear this. I worked with Ed over the years at UNB, most closely in helping to develop and rollout the online graduate application system. He was a consummate gentleman and I appreciated his approach to work and life. Just seeing this now, or I’d have been at the service yesterday. So happy I ran into you both at the Garrison Market last summer Bernadette! My sincere condolences.
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Gail Blair Storr posted a condolence
Thursday, June 18, 2026
So sorry to hear this. I got to know Ed through his excellent leadership in the ARTC program. He certainly modelled excellence in his teaching, management and research. My condolences to his family and friends.
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Dan Murray posted a condolence
Thursday, June 18, 2026
My condolences to Ed's family for their loss. I was fortunate to have served at UNB and experience first hand the dedicated teaching, research and service Ed provided to the community. He was thoughtful , offered valuable perspectives and exhibited a positive and caring disposition.
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Margie Mallory posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
Dear Bernadette and family, Know that I am thinking of you at this sad time. Ed will be missed by all who knew him in his many capacities. He was a brilliant scholar who assisted many. Just think of all the children and others who were helped by his work.
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Mary McKenna (UNB Colleague) posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
My condolences to Ed's family for their loss - he always made it clear how important his family was in his life. Ed was a terrific colleague at UNB, with an excellent ability to look at things differently and pursue innovative directions. His genuine enjoyment of students, and the research and learning process enriched all those who came in contact with him. His dedication and pursuit of high standards were evident to all. While his physical demeanor could be interpreted as serious, he would then inject his subtle humour or smile his little smile and put everyone at ease. And of course, we will remember his interesting collection of bow ties, which he tied himself. Ed was a very special person who will live on in the hearts and minds and actions of many!
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Jeffrey Underhill posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
Very sorry to hear about Dr Biden. I have great memories from his courses at UNB and had the opportunity to reconnect briefly in 2018 at an event at ScienceEast. Dr Biden taught us to always consider those with disabilities when working on engineering projects, and that always stuck with me. He will be missed in the engineering community.
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Pascale et Jean-Jacques BILLOU posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
C'est avec tristesse et émotion que nous avons appris le décés d'Edmond BIDEN.
Même si le poids des mots peut paraître parfois insignifiant en considération de la peine en pareille circonstance nous tenons à témoigner toute notre sympathie et amitié à son épouse, Bernadette, à ses trois enfants, Emily, Catherine et Jeremy ainsi qu'à ses trois petits-enfants.
Nous pensions et aurions aimé accueillir Edmond et Bernadette dans notre région bordelaise, en France, mais la vie en a décidé autrement.
Pascale et Jean-Jacques BILLOU
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John Neville posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
I am very saddened by this news and extend my condolences to Bernadette and family. It was a great pleasure for me to work with Ed for several years at the School of Graduate Studies and in a very different context as Beaver leaders for a short time. He was a thoughtful and caring leader at the SGS. I recall a few staff outings around campus where he lead us on historical walks filled with anecdotes and architectural details and also appreciated his recounting of research trips to Cuba and the realities of daily life in that country.
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Paul Machira posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
I am saddened by the loss of the distinguished professor just as I have been admitted to the university. May his dear soul rest in peace, I hope to follow his great academic path that he set in all those years of dedication.
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Syed Naqvi posted a condolence
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
My sincere condolences to Dr. Biden’s family. As one of his students, I will always remember him as an inspiring teacher whose words left a lasting impression on us all. He motivated us to strive for excellence and become better versions of ourselves.
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Virendrakumar Bhavsar posted a condolence
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
I am deeply saddened to know about Ed. It was always a pleasure to meet him at UNB. He will be missed by many colleagues. My heartfelt condolences to his family.
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Shelley Clayton posted a condolence
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
I was so sorry to read of Ed's passing, I have extremely fond memories of working with him when he worked in Graduate Studies. Ed was exceptionally caring and kind, always interested in helping students in need. UNB, students and colleagues experienced a kinder world with Ed in it, he will be missed.
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Peter Corbyn posted a condolence
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
I just found out. Ed was an amazing, helpful person. I have fond memories of working with him. Ed will be missed. My condolences to your family.
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Janice El-Bayoumi posted a condolence
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
I worked with Ed on various projects while working for ITS at UNB. Ed was always kind, understanding and insightful. I learned many things and approaches to problems and people that helped me in my work and life. I continue to apply the lessons he taught me as I go through life. He was a wonderful person.
My deepest condolences to his family and friends. He will be missed by many.
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Rick posted a condolence
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
I had the privilege of being part of the Rover Crew he was advising at UNB. He was a great Scouter and I continued to keep in touch with him through (and beyond) Scouting and UNB. He really enabled the Crew to have some great adventures and to get involved. He was a great person, always working with people to get them to put their best foot forward. He will be missed. Condolences to his family and friends.
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Ganyun Sun posted a condolence
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
I was deeply saddened to learn of Prof. Biden's passing.
Prof. Biden accompanied my academic journey from beginning to end. His name appeared on my university scholarship offer letter when I first joined the program, he taught one of my courses - Biomechanics, served on my dissertation defense committee, and his signature was on my degree certificate. Looking back, I realize how much of my university experience was shaped by his presence, guidance, and support.
I am sincerely grateful for his teaching, instruction, and kindness. He was not only an excellent scholar but also a thoughtful and caring educator. One memory that will always stay with me is how he wore a bow tie to every class. It reflected the professionalism, care, and respect he showed toward his students, and it made us feel valued and respected in return.
What touched me most was that his support continued even after I graduated. He generously provided reference letters that helped me begin my professional career and secure a job opportunity. His encouragement and confidence in me had a lasting impact, and I will always be thankful for the role he played in my growth, both as a student and as a professional.
Prof. Biden inspired many students through his dedication, wisdom, generosity, and kindness. I feel fortunate to have learned from him and to have benefited from his guidance throughout my academic journey and beyond.
He will be greatly missed, and his influence, example, and the lessons he shared will remain with us for years to come.
My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his memory continue to inspire future generations of students, just as he inspired me.
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Dan Coleman posted a condolence
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
Ed was one of the kindest, gentlest people with whom I worked over the years at UNB. Both of our children were fortunate to interact with Ed while they did their engineering degrees. Ed cared deeply about his students and colleagues. UNB was a better place because of him, he will be sorely missed. Michele and I send our condolences to Ed's family.
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Jason Landry posted a condolence
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
Dr. Biden was a great and patient teacher. My condolences to the family.
Jason Landry - BSc ME (2001 - UNB)
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Janet Mullin posted a condolence
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
Ed was a neighbour, a colleague, and one of the kindest men I've ever met. Sending warm thoughts and sincere sympathies to his family and his wide circle of friends. His memory will be for a blessing.
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Ali Ghorbani posted a condolence
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
I had the privilege of knowing Ed since 1991. From the moment I met him at UNB, I admired his academic excellence, professionalism, and dedication to students and colleagues. Dr. Biden later served on my PhD thesis examining committee and, over the years, became a valued mentor and colleague. I learned a tremendous amount from him, and I will always be grateful for the opportunity to know and work with him. My deepest condolences go to his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. He will be greatly missed.
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Dr. Kate Frego posted a condolence
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
I worked with Ed on graduate studies at UNB, and he was our Rock: not just knowledgeable but wise; not just fair but compassionate. Best of all, he helped us all maintain our perspective with his gentleness and humour. Without knowing him well, I felt a strong connection with Ed, and as I read about his life, I see why. He was a man of ideals and he lived them authentically. I know he is resting in peace, knowing that he offered his best.
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Constantine Passaris posted a condolence
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
I was deeply saddened with the news of Ed's passing. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and UNB colleagues. I had the privilege and pleasure of working with Ed in the different capacities of his administrative responsibilities at UNB. After his retirement it was a joy to connect and chat with him at social functions. In my view the best way to describe Ed's life journey is that he was the epitome of a scholar and a gentlemen. UNB has had the good fortune to be built on the shoulders of giants. Ed Biden was one of those giants. Our gratitude and applause go out to him for building a better UNB.
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Val Reeves posted a condolence
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
My deepest condolences to your family. Dr. Biden was a rock at UNB and I had a deep respect for him. I just saw him at the bakery this spring and we had a nice chat. A little story for the family to give you one of the many reasons why I hold Dr. Biden up high: at exams many years ago, Dr. Biden arrived at the gym for his exam. Being the chief invigilator with a very large class, I was there earlier and had already distributed my exam materials. Dr. Biden came up to me and said there were exams on his desks! Sure enough, we checked the lists, and we were both assigned the same rows! Dr. Biden did not panic. He waited and gathered up his class (upper years compared to my first-years) and took them to Head Hall to write in a classroom there. It was a Saturday morning in December and could have been very stressful for students, but Dr. Biden was calm, cool and collected and I have always appreciated his handling of that situation. I am truly sorry for your loss.
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Trevor Hanson posted a condolence
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
Oh I'm so saddened to hear of this. I remember starting as a undergraduate student 30 years ago and Dr. Biden teaching my class in graphics in my first year. He was so very kind, and being a new student, I had no idea how fortunate we were to have him teaching us given his storied background. Every time I look at my PhD diploma on my wall I see Ed's signature a dean of grad studies and I'm reminded of him and his kindness. When I became a faculty member, he was gracious to offer guest lectures in my classes on accessibility. I often ran into him in my neighbourhood and we talked often. Ed was so unassuming and modest and down to earth, yet was such an accomplished academic and very principled...a real model for the rest of us. He may not have known it, but the small interactions we had over the years were big to me. He will be greatly missed.
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Scott Ronis posted a condolence
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
I offer my condolences to Ed's family and friends. He was a wonderful colleague and very welcoming when I began my career at UNB. He was a unique administrator who prioritized the personal connections with colleagues. He tried to convince me that having (at least) three children was optimal. I know he had a rich life, and his family and community were so important. What more can we ask for--this world is a better place for having Ed in it.
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David Clarke posted a condolence
Monday, June 15, 2026
I would like to offer my condolences to Burnadette, Emily, Jeremy and Catherine. I was Eds' neighbour for over 30 years; two doors over. We exchanged favours, and we spoke often. At every one of our meetings, I always felt I learned something new. It wasn't just about how things worked, we talked about fatherhood, good citizenship and volunteering. Years ago, I owned a truck and he often roped me in to help with the Scouts.
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John Christian posted a condolence
Sunday, June 14, 2026
Ed was a colleague at UNB. He was a very bright and intelligent person. His research abilities were very well respected and his ever friendly demeanour were appreciated by students and faculty. My deepest sympathies to his family.
John Christian
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Bob Skillen posted a condolence
Friday, June 12, 2026
Dear Bernadette and family, I had the pleasure of calling Ed a UNB colleague and friend for 26 years. Ed represented all that was good about UNB. Like his father Bill before him, who I was fortunate to have as one of my Education professors, Ed was a gentle giant of a man. Ed served his Alma Mater and his community well. We are all richer for having had Ed in our lives. Please accept my deepest sympathies.
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Nancy Black posted a condolence
Friday, June 12, 2026
Dr Edmund (Ed) Biden, one of my two PhD thesis supervisors has died. The world is better for his time on this earth, teaching engineering, graduate studies, biomechanics, and through his gentle self, kindness and high standards.
I appreciated his invited guest lectures in my Biomechanics course at Université de Moncton, where he shared the role of that science in rehabiliation with depth and expertise. I continue to use some of his examples and figures from his days in San Diego (with his permission).
I am grateful for his tutellage and working as a colleague as well… including as board members of the O’Brien Foundation.
My condolences to his family.
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John Craighead posted a condolence
Friday, June 12, 2026
I can only echo all the appreciation for Ed. He & I were Rhodes Scholars together & his wonderful gifts always were evident. When I also moved to UNB, one of my first supporters was Ed. Truly a great person. John Craighead
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Dwight Ball posted a condolence
Friday, June 12, 2026
I was saddened to hear of Ed's passing. He and I chatted regularly when I worked in the Research Services office at UNB. I also had the privilege of travelling with him to Cuba towards the end of Biomed's project there. My condolences to Bernadette and his entire family.
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Veronica Conboy posted a condolence
Thursday, June 11, 2026
So sorry to hear of Ed’s passing. He was a true gentleman. I was a research student in Oxford when he was there and he was always so kind and supportive. Sincere condolences. Veronica Conboy FRCS
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Dr. W. Barry Miller posted a condolence
Thursday, June 11, 2026
Sincere sympathy to Ed's family. I actually taught Ed in Grade Nine at Devon. I was able to make arrangements for him to go to Mactaquac and to visit the Dam. This onsite experience inspired him to pursue an Engineering Degree. (according to his Dad) We often talked about it.
I was so proud of him getting a Rhodes Scholarship and then becoming Dean of Graduate Studies at UNB.
As Executive Director of the O'Brien Foundation I would enjoy having Ed as a board member. He was always so professional and a source of strength. He will certainly be missed. Dr. W. Barry Miller
drbmillr@gmail.com 470-4607
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Teresa Morris posted a condolence
Thursday, June 11, 2026
Our sincere condolences. I have known Ed since Grade 8, and we had some memorable adventures as teens and young adults. He was a wonderful person, with a droll sense of humor. We will miss him.
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Margaret Loughrey posted a condolence
Thursday, June 11, 2026
It is with great sadness that I heard of Dr Biden’s passing. He was a wonderful neighbour, a kind and quiet intelligent man, loved by so many as such a impactful Professor at UNB Engineering. He will be dearly missed. My condolences to the family.
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David Barrett posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 10, 2026
I am so very sorry for your loss and are keeping you all in my prayers.
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Diane Flynn posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 10, 2026
Dear Bernadette and Family,
It is with sadness that I learned of Ed's passing. I have wonderful memories of you both in my classroom at FHS many years ago. It was always such a pleasure to meet you both on many occasions over the year and I am so grateful for having met you both at the Medical Clinic just a few weeks ago. Ed was so excited to show me pictures of your grandchildren which he did with that ever-present twinkle in his eye. Not only was he a brilliant scholar, but a beautiful human being who leaves this world a better place. Know, Bernadette, that I am thinking of you and your family and sending my heartfelt sympathy and a prayer that you will find peace in the days ahead. Sincerely with love, Diane
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Eddy Campbell posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 10, 2026
Ed was a gentle man, thoughtful, quiet, persistent and determined. I knew him in his role as the Dean of Graduate Studies. He excelled in that role. It was always a pleasure to talk to Ed, he had a sly and quiet sense of humour, often seeming to look at you side-eyed to see if you got it, and then a lovely smile and laugh. He played an outsize role in building the modern UNB. My sincere and heartfelt sympathy and condolences to his family. This is a huge loss and far too soon. I will hold him close in my heart.
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David Coleman posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 10, 2026
Ed was a wonderful gentleman and a respected colleague. He will be missed. Condolences to the entire family. Rest in peace, Ed.
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Susan Mesheau posted a condolence
Tuesday, June 9, 2026
I am so sorry. Ed was a former colleague at UNB and was a lovely man with such a dry sense of humour. My heartfelt sympathy to all the family.
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Verne posted a condolence
Tuesday, June 9, 2026
I am ver sorry to learn that Ed has died.
Our friendship extended over several decades and my respect is very deep as an old professor and as a colleague..
I offer my condolences to his family and to all of those who had the privilege to know him.
Verne
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Randall McGregor posted a condolence
Tuesday, June 9, 2026
Ed was one of the nicest guys I’ve ever met!!!
We met through scouts; and, ran into each other many times over the years in Fredericton. He was always smiling and jovial!!! Always made me feel better whenever I interacted with him.
He was also clearly a very loving father, husband, and gentleman!!
While he was clearly very smart, one never felt intimated nor incompetent around him. He had a great personality, and, of course, a pretty good beard too!!
He made my life and that of thousands of other much better!!! Thank you Ed!!!!
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Maithili Wilson posted a condolence
Monday, June 8, 2026
It was a great privilege to have been a friend of Ed. He married my dear friend Bernadette. He was sweet, funny, gentle, hospitable, always engaging and a wonderful community leader. Ed and Bernadette and Jennifer Gammon and I and some others used to cycle together when we were teenagers. Once, I was about to cross the Trans Canada on my bike, when a large arm came out and barred me going forth. Ever the scout leader, Ed had seen a car approaching, and saved my life. I have always been grateful. My deepest condolences to Bernadette and Emily and Jeremy and Catherine. He will be missed.
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John Rayworth posted a condolence
Monday, June 8, 2026
My deepest condolences go out to you Bernadette and to your family over your loss.
It was my honour to serve with Ed on the 1st St Margaret’s Group Committee, and a privilege to be his friend from just around the corner in Skyline Acres. I will remember with particular fondness our trips together out to the Christmas tree lot.
Ed was the epitome of a gentleman and a scholar and I will miss him very much.
Sincerely, John Rayworth
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Demetres Tryphonopoulos posted a condolence
Monday, June 8, 2026
Dear Bernadette, Litsa and I would like to extend to you and the entire family our sincerest condolences. It so very sad to hear of Ed’s passing.
I had the privilege of working with Ed for nearly a decade in UNB’s School of Graduate Studies. I remember Ed as an exceptional leader, a dedicated and accomplished administrator, and, above all, a person of deep kindness, integrity, and humanity. Widely admired as a researcher and scholar, teacher, and academic leader, he nevertheless remained remarkably modest, collegial, and clear-sighted. His combination of professional excellence and personal generosity made him an invaluable colleague and a cherished friend.
With our sympathies,
Demetres (& Litsa) Tryphonopoulos
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Gerry and Siobhan Laskey posted a condolence
Monday, June 8, 2026
Bernadette and family, Our sincere condolences. As you know better than any of us, Ed was a true gentleman and a wonderful scholar. We are so grateful that every time our paths crossed we were able to share a few words with each other. We join you in giving thanks for the way his life touched and influenced so many others. We are grateful to have known him.
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Michelle Nowlan uploaded photo(s)
Monday, June 8, 2026
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Deepest condolences to Ed's family and friends ! He was such a kind soul. I am honoured to have been part of his path even if it was for a very short period.
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Elaine Lorette (Ouellette) posted a condolence
Monday, June 8, 2026
Dr. Biden was my professor for several classes throughout my Mechanical Engineering degree at UNB, he inspired me to pursue a Biomedical concentration and introduced me to the world of Prosthetics as a student at the Institute of Biomedical Engineering & the Atlantic Clinic for Upper Limb Prosthetics. I was very lucky to have the opportunity to participate in a 3-month internship in Cuba through the Canadian International Development Agency thanks to his involvement.
Ed was an incredibly thoughtful mentor and played a significant role in my education and career path in Prosthetics. His contributions have touched many people in many ways – through his teaching, his mentorship and his genuine care for his students and colleagues. He had an amazing ability to open doors, inspire curiosity, and instill confidence in those around him I’m truly grateful to have learned from him, and I will carry his influence with me throughout my career. He will be so dearly missed.
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Angela Hamilton posted a condolence
Monday, June 8, 2026
My Sincere Condolences to Ed's Family. I was Ed's Secretary at IBME during his time as Director. So many wonderful memories.
Sincerely,
Angela Hamilton
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Daryl Park posted a condolence
Monday, June 8, 2026
I first met Edmund in Sudbury Ontario in the summer of 1976, while he was doing his internship with INCO. He was staying in a downtown hotel. Yet was working at the smelter in Copper Cliff and found it difficult to get to work early in the morning as buses usually ran later than his start time. His Father had given him advice, that if you needed a friend go to the nearest Anglican church and ask for help. He showed up in Copper Cliff at St. John the Divine church and talked with our Minister who introduced him to the congregation and we found him a place to stay in Copper Cliff. The following Sunday when he showed up to church, my wife and I asked him if he would like to go up to my parents cottage for a canoe ride and swim. Over the course of the summer we found him to be a kindred soul in that we were both Scout leaders, members of the Canadian Ski Patrol, and loved riding road bicycles. The following summer he worked for GM in southern Ontario we both travelled back and forth between Sudbury and Toronto on a few weekends to spend time together. In the summer of 1978 we were invited by Edmunds parents to visit Fredericton and meet the family. It was a wonderful holiday and we were very warmly greeted. That was followed by a trip to Oxford and touring around England and Scotland with Ed. Over the years, it was followed with wedding invitation, trips by both couples to visit, calls and letters. The last trip was in the fall of 2023 just before my wife retired. Sincerest condolences, to Bernadette and Family at this time. There is a line in Hamlet, we're Hamlet meets a friend who is trying to console him on the death of his Father and says " I saw him once and he was a goodly King." To that Hamlet's replied " He was a man, take him for all in all, I shall not look upon his like again."
Daryl Park
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Diane Campbell posted a condolence
Sunday, June 7, 2026
Bernadette and family, so sorry to hear of Ed's passing. It was a privilege to work with Dr. Biden when he was Associate Dean and Dean of Graduate Studies. He was so kind and thoughtful to all who knew him. Condolences to you and all your family.
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Mary Jarratt posted a condolence
Sunday, June 7, 2026
Dear Bernadette and family, I am very saddened to read of Ed’s passing. He was a wonderful neighbour to my parents in Skyline Acres days, where he and my father shared a special kinship both being engineers. May God bless you at this sad time.
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Jim Morell posted a condolence
Sunday, June 7, 2026
I had the pleasure of working alongside Ed in his roles at UNB and Christ Church Cathedral. He was thoughtful, kind, understated, a strategic thinker and always willing to share his time, knowledge and experience. Bernadette and family, I am very sorry to learn of his 'too early' passing. I feel certain his legacy will be evident in the lives of Jeremy, Catherine and Emily and their families, his Boy Scouts and his students.
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Mark H Dawson uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, June 7, 2026
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Ed started dating my sister a year or 2 after we moved to Fredericton. I was a year behind him at FHS. That was over 50 years ago. (And pre-beard.) My sister’s boyfriend. Then fiancé. Husband, father, uncle and grandfather. As many have said already, Ed made you feel seen and heard. Our times together were occasional and I never remember him flustered. Always calm. Lovely hugs. He had all the time in the world for kids. Whether it was building sand dams at the beach or growing extra arms for smiles, he was there. And we love him so much for it. He has left us and that is sad. And he continues to live in our hearts and memories. Hugs to all. Mark
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Faith Sharpe posted a condolence
Sunday, June 7, 2026
Dr Biden was amazing to work with, I was a graduate secretary and he was always available to assist my students. My condolences to his family. He will be dearly missed
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Colleen Dewis posted a condolence
Sunday, June 7, 2026
Dr Biden helped shape my whole life. He saw me fascinated by the math of mechanical engineering, but less interested in traditional applications of it. He identified this in my 4th year and started introducing me to biomechanics, first as a senior project, then as a research assistant, and then as a masters student. He always had time for me in Narnia, and loved that I started calling my basement office "The pit of despair" (Princess Bride). He didn't bat an eye when I became nocturnal for a while, we just started scheduling meetings first thing. He helped me apply for PhD positions, and get funding, despite having chronic health challenges. When I started dating my now husband, he immediately phoned a friend to make sure I could get a spot at Dal, where I am now an instructor. He taught me the importance of diplomacy and pre-conference preparation for different audiences and that you have to bring back enough free stuff for anyone who couldn't make it. He patiently drive my terrible car, chatting to Peter Kyberd to Montreal while I slept in the backseat. They woke me a few times so I could see important landmarks or share in the best laughs. Unfortunately he did also teach me the importance of documentation and having access to information. This means I still need to have paper copies of "the foundations" of biomechanics, prosthetics development, vast computer storage of PDFs, the 3rd level backup of all my thesis data (on cds so probably not). I will miss the emails of "hey have you read this" that have gotten more spaced over the years. He is probably one of the 5 people in that read my PhD thesis. His memory will live on in my heart forever.
Attached is my scrapbook page of a restaurant in Atlanta during my first conference
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John Kershaw posted a condolence
Sunday, June 7, 2026
Ed was a brilliant scholar and a compassionate soul. Yet, he was not afraid to make difficult decisions and confront unfair situations. I was lucky to start my UNB administrative journey under his guidance. A mentor, a friend, and a true example to live up to.
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Jacqueline Seely uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, June 7, 2026
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Dear Bernadette and family, I am deeply saddened that Dr. Biden passed away. I was priviledge to work under his leadership and guidance as Associate Dean and Dean of Graduate Studies. These are some of my favorite memories. Dr. Biden loved his black coffee and there was always a pot of coffee on all day. He would offer to share a cup but most of us weren't brave enough and kindly declined. The Old Arts Bldg. was either too hot in summer or cold in winter . He never turned the steam heat on in his office in the winter. I can still see him wearing his cozy slippers and warm sweathers. I would ask are you not cold Dr. Biden, he said no it's just right and the way I like it. We were were so fortunate to have him as mentor and a wonderful leader. You will always be remembered Dr. Biden.
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Gobinda Saha posted a condolence
Sunday, June 7, 2026
What a true gentleman we will all miss forever!
Aside from numerous scholarly conversations I have had with Ed, the most cherishing moments are the ones filled with inspiring leadership qualities he possessed. Very gentle voice, an avid listener, energetic problem solver, and a team builder. As a colleague and a fellow scout volunteer, I will always miss Ed's association.
May God bless the departed soul!
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Hank Williams posted a condolence
Sunday, June 7, 2026
To Bernadette and the family,
I can’t think of a nicer, quieter and more gentle man than Ed. It was always a pleasure to meet him and discuss so many topics. I will miss him so very much.
Hank Williams
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Robert & Joy Thomas posted a condolence
Saturday, June 6, 2026
Robert and I were so saddened to hear of Ed's passing. We both attended FHS with Ed, but got to know him much better when our boys attended Scouts with Jeremy. Apart from his academic accomplishments, he was a great guy, and well-respected in the Scouting community. To Bernadette and family, please accept our deepest sympathy.
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Vince Boardman posted a condolence
Saturday, June 6, 2026
Bernadette and family, please know how much I enjoyed working with Ed and what a positive influence he was on me and so many others.
I loved the way he brightened the room and made sure everyone was heard. He made me smile and above all else was a true gentleman.
I will remember him fondness and respect. My condolences to all.
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Bill and Barbara Kerr posted a condolence
Saturday, June 6, 2026
We write just to add our condolences to Ed's nearest and dearest on the death of a genuinely good man. I made Ed's acquaintance at Oxford and was delighted to cross paths again at UNB, from which base, along with the late Peter Kent, we all served on the committee for the 1st St. Margarets Scout troop. Fredericton is poorer for his loss.
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Saturday, June 6, 2026
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I met Ed 15 years ago when I first came to work a summer job at UNB. He introduced himself as Ed.
I didn't know he was the Dean of Graduate studies until well into the summer when I walked into his impressive office. He was such a very down to earth human being.
A few years later when I was defending my thesis and the engineering department forgot to schedule a chair and would re-schedule (again), Ed just happened to walk into the biomed building, assessed the situation, and offered to be the chair. Just like that. I am very proud that the front page of my thesis lists his name.
Ed once told me the worst joke in the world that still makes me laugh.
Ed: What's the sound of a bell in New Brunswick?
Me: What?
Ed: [with enthusiasm] Ganooonggg!!
I will miss him.
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Bob Rogers posted a condolence
Saturday, June 6, 2026
I was very sorry to hear of Ed’s passing. I knew him first as a final-year undergraduate working on his senior project. Later he became a very well-regarded colleague in Mechanical Engineering. Ed always had a ready smile and a twinkle in his eye. He was thoughtful, creative and well skilled at solving any problem. One memorable project that Ed and I worked on was an experimental simulation of a steel spike going into a person’s thigh. We did this by measuring how much force it would take to drive a spike though denim into a pork roast. Ed will certainly be missed. Memories of him will live on for all who met him. My sincere condolences go to Bernadette and all the family.
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Paulette Steever posted a condolence
Saturday, June 6, 2026
Bernadette and family: As was anyone who had the pleasure of knowing Ed, I was deeply saddened to hear of his passing. I send my deepest condolences to you, your children, grandchildren, Ed's sister and other family members. Ed was Department chair when I first started working in Mechanical and he was an absolute pleasure to work with. He was a much admired prof by both graduate and undergraduates students. Through the years, there were also Christmas parties, student year end banquets and finally, Ed's retirement party at York County Cider. He was a man of great integrity, compassion, humor and intelligence. The world could use more Ed Bidens!
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Damon Beggs posted a condolence
Saturday, June 6, 2026
Such an accomplished scholar and mentor. Ed and Bernadette visited our home during the Heritage Home Tour here in St. Andrews and were surprised to reconnect after so many years after high school. I always remember him as a kind and quiet person. My sincere condolences to his family.
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Noëlla Basque posted a condolence
Saturday, June 6, 2026
My deepest condolences to Ed's wife and family. I knew Ed from FHS and we spoke at the reunion in 2024. He spoke with such pride and fondness of his children and their acheivements. Even in high school, Ed stood out: brilliant, kind, thoughtful. He left a mak on all he met. May your memories of him sustain you in these difficult times. Noëlla Basque
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Gregory S Kealey posted a condolence
Saturday, June 6, 2026
Condolences to Bernadette and the family. I worked with Ed when he was Dean of Grad Studies at UNB and recall with pleasure a trip we made to Cuba together. He leaves us all far too soon.
Greg and Linda Kealey
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Susan Perrott posted a condolence
Saturday, June 6, 2026
Dear Bernadette and family. I am sending my deepest condolences to you all. I worked with Ed at UNB for many year and he was such a kind, gentle and soft spoken man. So understanding and always willing to help out. He will be missed, I’m sure, by so many people.
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Evelyn Richards posted a condolence
Saturday, June 6, 2026
Dear Bernadette, I am so sorry. As you know, Ed was one of the truly good people in this world. Sincerely, Evelyn Richards
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Lynn Burdock posted a condolence
Saturday, June 6, 2026
Dear Mary & Family,
I am so very sorry to hear of the loss of your brother. It is amazing all that he gave in his lifetime. He will truly be missed. Sincere Sympathy, Lynn Burdock
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Gwen posted a condolence
Saturday, June 6, 2026
My family (Douglas) were friends with the Bidens when I was a kid, and of course Ed was the larger than life centre unit of theirs. His physical stature wasn’t all that drew you to him, he was always on the set up of a side splitting joke or quizzical riddle. The most memorable to me were the ever changing explanations of why he had no belly button..
When I think of Ed, of course the big black beard springs to mind, but I mostly picture him filling up a chair with Catherine perched on his giant knee like a little wren. Ed’s love and joy filled every room and laughter was always short to follow. It was obvious how much he cared for people.
I send my condolences to Ed’s immediate and greater family, and all the wider community to whom Ed was a part of.
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Luke posted a condolence
Friday, June 5, 2026
I haven’t seen Ed in a long time but I vividly remember his loving, patient, attentive gaze and genuine care as little-me explained Minecraft to him in immense detail for what was probably far too long. I’ll never forget the comfort that radiated from uncle Ed and his gentle, wise way of communication. May his spirit continue to do wonderful things.
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