He was well respected and considered a giant among those working to improve the plight of the less fortunate. He was not one to build monuments for himself, rather to see what he could do to help others.

Even during his last days, soon after he was diagnosed with his illness, rather than talking about his plight, he became an advocate to prevent terminal illnesses for others. He lived his values to the end.

Utah has lost one of the great champions of the poor and working people. He leaves a vacuum of leadership that we have yet to appreciate. Because of him, the lives of the less fortunate among us have improved. I suspect Ed would want us to think that is the greatest legacy he leaves us.

Goodbye my friend!

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Utah native John Florez has founded several Hispanic civil rights organizations, served on the staff of Sen. Orrin Hatch and on more than 45 state, local and volunteer boards. He also has been deputy assistant secretary of labor. E-mail: jdflorez@comcast.net