Search by Name

Search by Name

William A. Edens Obituary

William Edens became a college graduate, an Army lieutenant and a newlywed, all in the space of four months. When he went to Iraq, his wife, Christina, was finishing medical school. "I'm sure that leaving her was one of the hardest things he'd ever done," said 1st Lt. Joshua Grenard, a classmate. Edens, 29, of Columbia, Mo., was among four soldiers killed April 28 by a roadside bomb in Tal Afar. He was based at Fort Lewis. Edens worked for a while after high school before going to a community college, where he became student body president. At the University of Missouri-Columbia, he studied Russian and military history and led his ROTC team to two back-to-back regional championships in the annual Ranger Challenge. Edens had a dimpled smile and was known for keeping his college classes in stitches, including with an Arnold Schwarzenegger impression. "I'm looking through old pictures, and he's always front and center with the biggest smile, hamming it up," said longtime friend Chris Luppen. "He was just well-loved by everybody."

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Herald (Everett) on May 3, 2005.

Memories and Condolences
for William A. Edens

Not sure what to say?





Brian Dolan

January 29, 2021

4am and I just woke up dreaming about this day. Never forgotten brother.

kim herndon

May 25, 2015

I think of you often and it is hard to believe 10 years have passed since you left this world. You were one of the nicest, kindest, sweetest and funniest guys. You are missed by so many my friend. Till we see you again!

September 8, 2013

Today, I came across this web page. I am sorry to read of the loss of Will. He will never be forgotten.

Peggy Childers

May 12, 2012

To the family and friends of 1st Lt. William A. Edens:
Always remembering William. "Some gave all."

chris hennessy

April 28, 2012

Today marks the day we lost a brother in arms and a great man. RIP

Laury Woodruff

September 10, 2011

Been thinking a lot about you lately, my old friend. Replaying happy, hilarious, crazy times in my head over and over. Wondering where you'd be today if you hadn't gone so soon. I love you always and miss you every day.

August 20, 2011

I walked in the "Run/Walk for the Fallen" today in Osage Beach, MO. I was honered to be selected to walk in memory of 1st Lt. William A. Edens. He will be remembered by me forever and I hope to be able to walk in his honor/memory every year at this event. He is a true hero. I did not have the pleasure of knowing him but, he will be in my heart and mind forever. My prayers are with you and your family. As I read all the things his family and friends have said I can see I was blessed to be the one to walk in his honor. God Bless you and your family. Teresa Jones, Gravois Mills, MO

Justin Sims

May 2, 2011

Today the sacrifice Wil and all other of his other brothers in arms were vindicated today. Thank you for all you did to help protect this country, I will miss you always

us at very young ages!!!!

Nikki Edens

April 28, 2011

Well today it has been 6 six years since I got that call that you were gone. I hoped the pain from not having you would dull with time but it has not. I think of all of our childhood years and smile I wish that I had you to talk to when things are crazy. Everyone misses you so much and wonders what life would be with you around. Would you have children yet? Would be in Missouri or somewhere else. I know that someday I will see you again and that is one of the only things that makes this easier. But I still dont understand why it had to be you. You are the best brother any one could ask for. I love you Wil and Miss you always.....

Peggy Childers

April 28, 2011

To the family and friends of 1st Lt. William A. Edens:
Please accept my remembrance of William on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.
Peggy Childers
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

L Neal

April 3, 2011

To the family of 1st Lt. William A. Edens:
Please know that just as your loved one remains in your hearts and minds; his sacrifice, and that of your family, remains with the people he died defending. Words cannot express the gratitude we feel for his bravery and selflessness, or the heartache we feel for your loss. God bless and keep you always.

Jani Michielsen

March 30, 2011

Wil, Its amazing to me to see your page and that not only does the family still visit it, but people whom you've met along the way along with those you just feel the need to let you know they care. This shows what a truely amazing person you were and in my mind, still are. I didnt get to know you for very long due to circumstances that were out of both of our control. I'd like to think that regardless of the few years i knew you, that you were a true brother to me. I was so hurt when I recieved the news that you had been killed...so angery at God for him letting this happen...I had just gotten to know you finally. It didnt seem fair at all to me. Ive learned alot about not fair over the years, but this just seemed like an extra low blow. I joined the army a few months after your death and found out quickly why you told me to finish school...haha, but you knew i would be hard headed and jump into it anyways, im sure. Either way, these last 5 years Ive spent trying to ensure that no one gets the call I got..and as it gets closer to 6 I believe that the only reason I have been successful is because you have been up there helping me. I want to thank you so much for watching out for me while you were here and sense youve been gone. When the day comes, please meet me on the parade field and welcome me home. I love you and miss you so much. Your little sister..

Peggy Childers

April 29, 2010

To the family and friends of 1st Lt. William A. Edens:
Remembering William on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

Jenny MacHart

November 11, 2009

To the family of 1st Lt. William A. Edens:
My sons recieved a paper with your sons name on it during their veterens day assembly at their elementary school. We would like to send our condolences and thanks to your son for his courage. You will be in my prayers and we are sorry for your loss. He is not forgotten.
Jenny, Ryan, and Brett

Linda Greene

August 3, 2009

Thank You to you and to Lt. William A Edens for his Service to our country. He will not be forgotten, In our hearts. Thank You for sharing his story with us. I would love to Honor him at a Sept 11th Memorial Service we are doing in Osage Beach, Mo. But would like your permission to tell his story, please contact Linda at (573) 348-5677 if you would.

Kenna Larra

June 30, 2009

”Honor and Remember” - “Project Compassion” We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families of our fallen heroes. War does not discriminate – It breaks our hearts to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,600 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com . If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely and Respectfully,
Kenna

Peggy Childers

April 28, 2009

To the family of 1st Lt. William A. Edens:
William gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

Safely Home

Michael Iezzi

October 2, 2008

Father we entrust our brother William to your mercy. You loved him greatly in this life: now that he is freed from all its cares, give him happiness and peace forever. Welcome him now into paradise where there will be no more sorrow, no more weeping or pain, but only peace and joy with Jesus your Son, and the Holy Spirit forever and ever.
May God hold William in the palm of His hand. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. My deepest sympathies.

Henryk Zaleski (USN-Ret)

October 2, 2008

Rest in peace. You had the heart that allowed you to give all you had to give.

katherine Edens

August 2, 2008

Hey my uncle was the greatest person i know i loved him alot i dont no alot about him but he waz my uncle i waz in the hospital when me and my mom find out about him i cred my self to sleep i did not go to his funeral i waz to scard to go i waz 7 when he died but i still thank about him all the time i loved him alot my mom loved him more than anyone i know she loved him alot they r bro and sis they r both great peopl we talk about him alot i even talk to him some time when i waz lil i would tell my mom that he is still alive i said guss wat wil spent night last night i still say lat he is still alive

May 3, 2008

You are remembered and respected. Thank you 1st Lt Edens!

In Memory of William ( Debra Estep )

April 29, 2008

Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers today.


The Wind on The Downs

“I like to think of you as brown and tall,
As strong and living as you used to be,
In khaki tunic, Sam Brown belt and all,
And standing there and laughing down at me.
Because they tell me, dear, that you are dead,
Because I can no longer see your face,
You have not died, it is not true, instead
You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe;
I hear you laughing as you used to do,
Yet loving all the things I think of you;
And knowing you are happy, should I grieve?
You follow and are watchful where I go.”

(Written by Marian Allen during World War l )

Two lines that I wish you to keep near your heart…….

“You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe”

I did not know William, but I am remembering his service.
He is my hero.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The Other Side

i'm over on the other side
where life and death softly divide.
left my skin and bones behind
now i'm over on the other side.

can you feel me there with you?
my breath is gone but i'm not through.
loved you then and i still do
from over on the other side.

i can fly. really fly.
below the earth ... all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.

it's good here on the other side.
the sweetest songs...the bluest skies.
thank you for the tears you cried
but it's good here on the other side.

i can fly. really fly. below the earth...all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side

the world is smaller than a needle's eye.
where life and death softly divide.
when you leave your skin and bones behind
i'll be waiting on the other side.

i can fly. really fly. below the earth ... all through the sky.
go tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.

Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)


Sincerely,

Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom and MIL

Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55

The Other Side
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol

Please contact me and I will email you back a copy of my
Angel and soldier drawing I have shared here.

In Memory of William ( Debra Estep )

April 28, 2008

Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers today.


The Wind on The Downs

“I like to think of you as brown and tall,
As strong and living as you used to be,
In khaki tunic, Sam Brown belt and all,
And standing there and laughing down at me.
Because they tell me, dear, that you are dead,
Because I can no longer see your face,
You have not died, it is not true, instead
You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe;
I hear you laughing as you used to do,
Yet loving all the things I think of you;
And knowing you are happy, should I grieve?
You follow and are watchful where I go.”

(Written by Marian Allen during World War l )

Two lines that I wish you to keep near your heart…….

“You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe”

I did not know William, but I am remembering on
this day he gave his all.
He is my hero.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The Other Side

i'm over on the other side
where life and death softly divide.
left my skin and bones behind
now i'm over on the other side.

can you feel me there with you?
my breath is gone but i'm not through.
loved you then and i still do
from over on the other side.

i can fly. really fly.
below the earth ... all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.

it's good here on the other side.
the sweetest songs...the bluest skies.
thank you for the tears you cried
but it's good here on the other side.

i can fly. really fly. below the earth...all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side

the world is smaller than a needle's eye.
where life and death softly divide.
when you leave your skin and bones behind
i'll be waiting on the other side.

i can fly. really fly. below the earth ... all through the sky.
go tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.

Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)


Sincerely,

Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom and MIL

Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55

The Other Side
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol

Bill Perrot

November 14, 2007

As on one of Missouri's son's and a Vietnam Vet I will never be able to say any words that will convey the sadness and loss you feel and we all share your families loss. SALUTE

Tom Gugliuzza

August 24, 2007

My heartfelt sympathy to the Edens family in the loss of William. I did not know William, but my heart is broken and I am saddened for your loss of such a fine young person and hero. May God bring you peace in your heart as you reflect on all the wonderful memories you hold so close. Please know that you are in my heart and prayers. My heart was touched by the many wonderful/beautiful things written about you and by the moving tribute. William it has been two years since you were taken, please know that you are my hero and you will NEVER be forgotten.
I send each of you a hug from the most inner part of my heart.
Love and Peace
Tom

"To live in the hearts
of those you leave behind
is never to die"
~Robert Orr~

August 16, 2007

There is nothing that I can say or do to take away the pain or bring you peace in your time of sorrow, but I will offer you and your family my heart felt condolences. I also offer you my prayers that in time the pain will easy and the memories of your HERO will carry you through each day and night. I want to thank your HERO, for his/her selfless act of becoming a member of the armed forces, his/her willingness to defend the United States of America, all that we hold sacred and for the sacrifice that will forever be etched in the memories of all those who knew him/her. Though tears can never bring him/her back, we hope that our tears express our gratitude for the sacrifice that he/she made and our sorrow at his/her passing. I believe for every fallen HERO there is a star shining brightly up above to remind us of the precious gift we were given.

Your mission on earth is complete and you are now a member of GOD’s Heavenly armed forces. Stand down brave warrior and take your rightful place in Heaven with all the HEROES who have passed before.

I made a special promise to LE RON A. WILSON, a dear family friend who joined the Army with three other friends, one of whom is my son (Le Ron was killed in action on 07/06/07 at the age of 18) on the day he was laid to rest as I touched his coffin, that I would never forget him nor would I forget those that gave their lives for our country before him, with him and after him and so when I came across www.legacy.com, I thought what a great way to keep my promise to Le Ron, so I will continue to leave tributes in each guest book until the day there is no longer the need to leave these tributes to a FALLEN HERO.

REST IN PEACE, HERO, YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!!

PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Currently stationed in Germany
Althea Barrett(Queens, NY)

July 16, 2007

Thank you for the sacrifice made by 1st Lt Edens and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!

Garnet Jenkins

April 27, 2007

It is an honor to pay tribute to 1st Lt. William A. Edens, with a Multitude of Thanks, for this Brave Young Soldier's Courage, Dedication and Service to our Country and for Freedom.

May William Rest Safely, in God's Loving Care and may the Peace of God continue to be with the Edens family.
Those who Made the Ultimate Sacrifice, So Many and So Young, shall Never Be Forgotten, my brother among them. Killed in action in Vietnam in 1967.

"I will lift up my eyes to the hills- from whence comes my help?
My help comes from the Lord, Who made heaven and earth."
~ Psalm 121:1-2 ~

I am sincerely hoping that you continue to feel the thoughts of caring and support that surround you each day, as this Country Remembers Someone Very Precious to you, who is a True American Hero to all of us.
I am So Deeply Sorry for your loss.

lucas lunsmann

March 23, 2007

i was in wils platoon as a sniper team RTO for most of our time in tal afar. there isn't a day that goes by where i don't think of him. he was an amazing man, an excellent platoon leader, and an all around great guy to be around. i miss you brother.

Matthew Larson

March 15, 2007

I'm very sorry for your loss. I recently learned of William's passing from a ROTC Advanced Camp classmate. Whenever I think of that time, I distinctly remember a joke William once made there. A few of us were in the latrine and William and another guy were talking between stalls. The other guy was relating some miscellaneous events etc from that day and William was responding with "uh huh....yea..." Well, this exchange went on for several moments when the other guy went silent, William paused a moment, then went on with "uh huh....yeaaa....." LOL! I guess you had to be there, but it really cracked me up. He always had a smile on his face and kept us laughing. I am sure his candor and sense of humor positively motivated his troops. My deepest sympathy for his family, friends and troops.
v/r
Matt

Matthew L. Larson, MPT
CPT, SP, USA
Chief, Physical Therapy
Blackjack Brigade, "First Team!"
Forward Operating Base Prosperity, Iraq

Chris Bennett

January 10, 2007

To Wil and His Family and Friends,
You are not forgotten.
I remember you at Mizzou.
I remember Ranger Challenge.
I remember Cannon Crew.
I remember late nights hanging out.
I remember your quick wit and ready smile.
I remember your intellect.
I remember your friendship.
I'm sitting here in Iraq right now and I think about you often.
I think about your family.
None of you are forgotten.
Wil, you are sorely missed.

Jolene Morris

September 13, 2006

My husband was with Will and still his with him. Although I never met him,Eric talked about him alot, he was the kind of soldier everyone looked up to and still look up to. I met his wife and my heart goes out to her and his family.You are ALL in my thoughts and prayers.



Proud wife of Sgt.Eric Morris

ROBYN GARSIDE

August 12, 2006

MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS. I HAVE JUST LEARNED OF YOUR GREAT LOSS AND WISH TO EXPRESS MY DEEPEST SYMPATHIES. PLEASE KNOW THAT THERE ARE PEOPLE OUT HERE WHO DO CARE AND YOUR HERO WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. HOLD TIGHT TO YOUR TREASURED MEMORIES THAT HIS SPECIAL SMILE MAY CONTINUE TO SHINE ON FOR YOU ALWAYS. I PRAY THAT PEACE WILL FIND YOU ALL SOMEDAY. STAY STRONG AND GODSPEED. SEMPER FI



A PROUD MARINE MOM

Christopher Oliver

April 23, 2006

No words can express the man that Wil Edens was. He was a leader, a warrior, a hero, and most importantly, a friend. He was my Platoon Leader, and I served with Wil in Iraq through many tough days and nights. He was an inspiration in combat, and there are men I know who owe their lives to him. In November 2004, we were in Mosul, Iraq participating in a large operation. We were fighting day and night, under fire alot of the time, and we were all scared. Wil was able to keep us going strong and led us through to safety. He is in my thoughts often and I miss him dearly. We had a bond that only Soldiers together in combat can understand. I wish to give my condolences to his family and friends, and especially to Christy. Wil, you will always be my brother.

2LT Mark Brodzinski

April 10, 2006

Wil I Know that you is reading this in peace from above. Well... I finally made it through Ranger School. I remember everything you've shared with me over the years. The rope bridge, OPORDs, the importance of rehearsals, taking care of your friends and those under your leadership, and quiet competence.

I remember the countless Ranger Challenge practices on Stankowski. where you would bring out your mp3 player and speakers and would play Hansen's mmmmbop, and the backstreet boys. You could do the entire bye bye bye dance, while the entire team would pick up and move to the other side of the field, leaving you alone to dance.

I remember the competitor in you. Always the best, always a winner. When other teams would be talking trash to you and the rest of the team, you would restrain me and rise above the comments with Quiet competence. You would tell me, "Knowing that you are prepared to compete and confident in both your team and yourself there is no reason to say anything them... we'll do our talking on Sunday (last day of the competition) when we're holding the throphy and their going with their tail between their legs."

Everything that you've shared with me i will always hold dear. If the rest of the world had 10% of your heart this would a near perfect place. I miss you so bad bro... I just wnat you to know that you've had the greatest impact on my life. I know that you've made me a better person.

I have and will always think the world of you. Know that I have been praying for you, Christy, and the rest of your family. I love you and miss you Wil.

-SKI

Tom Hairston

February 26, 2006

I had a Russian class with Wil during my freshman year of college. I firmly believe he was one of the few reasons I got through that year. He was always willing to help in any way he could...even if it was just getting someone to laugh.



Despite not being around him that much I know how great of a man Wil was, and he will always be a hero to me.

josh pavlich

February 9, 2006

William A. Edens is my cousin he was and always will be a great man he will stay in are hearts forever we will miss you Wil you are a great inspiration your cousin -Josh

Don & Joan Ward

February 5, 2006

Wil gifted our neighborhood with his lovable presence in the summer of 1985. With his laughter, polite manners and winning smile it was always a pleasure to welcome him - there was never a dull moment with Wil around! (We didn't get to know Nikki that well; it wasn't cool to let little sisters to tag along) Wil was a good 5th Grade buddy and fellow Scout to our son Joe. We treasure our memories of him and pray that his family and his precious Christy and her family will be comforted by every message in this Guest Book

Nikki Edens

January 26, 2006

Thank you to all who have been so kind with their words and compassion over these 9 months I miss my Brother so much and to be able to go online and see how many friends and people that loved him helps a lot to know that he believed in his cause also helps. Thank you all for your support of him and his family.

Vangi & McKaLyne Lunsford

January 21, 2006

Psalm 23



1

The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.

2

He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters,

3

He restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

4

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

5

You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.

6

Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.



This is a verse that I have found to be comforting to me during my husbands death. Remember that when it seems that no one else is round, God is still there with you! And he will be your rock!



My daughter,McKaLyne, and I send our heartfelt sympathy for your loss! God Bless this warrior, God Bless those whom serve freedom's cause! They are our true HERO's!!!!



Also, the Moving Tribute is was beautiful! Cherish those memories forever!



If you need anything, please feel free to contact me!!!



Wife & Daughter of the Late

Sgt. Audrey Daron Lunsford

KIA May 23, 2005

margaret nash

January 7, 2006

My sympathy to your wife and family. God Bless America

Mary Griffiths

November 16, 2005

I did not know 1st LT William Edens but I have been reading the tributes to the fallen and my heart is really hurting for all these beautiful young people who have given their all. God bless their families and loved ones. We owe them so much which we will never, in this lifetime, be able to repay.

Rachel Terwelp

June 9, 2005

I went to ROTC for a short time with Wil and hung out with him and his friends a lot. He was a great guy and will be missed by all who came across his path.

Gene Marshall

May 28, 2005

Hello,



A memorial web site has been put together for Wil. It's at:

www.williamedensmemorial.com







We miss you, Wil.

Scott Powell

May 10, 2005

I met Wil while attending the University of Missouri. Wil used to come to quite a few of our practices ( Missouri Cheerlaeding) and help out as well as practie with us. He was a great guy and though I only knew him a short time I feel we have lost out on the future of someone destined to do great things.



My wife and I send our prayers.

Showing 1 - 47 of 47 results

Make a Donation
in William A. Edens's name

Memorial Events
for William A. Edens

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support William A.'s loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor William A. Edens's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sponsored