Edward J Breslin

Ed was one of the kindest, most thoughtful, people I've ever met. We lost contact a long time ago, but back at Notre Dame, and then at La Lumiere, Ed was very dear. At ND, he was the only one in our group on grad students who had a car--and he was constantly giving people rides. He wrote poems, composed skits, organized cram sessions for Old English grammar classes, got friends safely home after parties. At La Lumiere, he helped organize the school library, coached whatever they told him...

"Fast Eddie" and I were classmates in the graduate program at the University of Notre Dame. All his classmates liked him for his sense of humor and self-effacing manner. Most importantly, he was always there for a person who needed a ride, a sympathetic shoulder or a keen mind to brainstorm ideas with.

I loved Ed Breslin, he gave me a love of literature that has sustained me through life. He also listened when I ran on and on about any and all topics. In class he had this habit of rocking heel to toe while swinging his arms forward and back, punching his palms alternatingly. I only mentioned this so I could use the word "alternatingly." He'd cringe. I did writing it. Ed introduced me to books I have bought and re-bought to give away. They, like Ed, are friends you may not see fit years but...

I attended St. John's with Ed, and remember him as a kind and supportive friend. I was honored to know him. The world is a little less bright without Ed.