Deseret News | Sen. Ed Mayne dies of cancer

Reader comments
Sen. Ed Mayne dies of cancer

Rep. Neil Hansen | 1:40 a.m. Nov. 26, 2007

I have known Ed and his wife Karen for twenty somthing years, and My best and prayers goes out to Karen and the rest of the family.
I am greatful to be part of the labor unions and served on the exec. board with Ed for 15 years. I will always miss the good times that we had at the Democratic National convention together and the oppertunity to know his wife Karen.
I hope that Karen will run for Ed seat. She had signed up to run, the first time that Ed ran, because they didn't know for sure if Ed would be able to do both the Afl-cio president and a State Senator. When the decision was made Karen was behind him all the way.
Ed, I will alway cherish the fond memories I have had with you and all that you have done for labor, but more inportantly, is that you were always a true friend.
I hope that I can pick up some of those issue that you were so Passionate about. Best wishes and a fond farwell till we all meet again.

Your Friend,
Neil Hansen

Brent Overson | 5:41 a.m. Nov. 26, 2007

Thanks Ed for your wonderful service to our community. Your friendship, example and common sense have been a beacon for the many years I've known you. I wish Karen and your family well and I too would like to see Karen fill your place in the the State Senate.

Rep Matt Throckmorton | 6:55 a.m. Nov. 26, 2007

Ed was nothing short of a class act! I had the honor or serving with Ed for 4 years and we worked together on several bills. He was someone who was always a straight shooter. When you talked to Ed you walked away knowing not only exactly where he stood on the issue, but when disagreements arose, his concerns to resolve them. It was an honor that on a few occasions he actually sponsored my bills once they reached the Senate. I loved working with him!

No one should lose sight of the kind of government our Founding Fathers gave us. In a Democratically elected, Representative form of government, or a Republic all opinions must be present. Ed was without a doubt the finest voice possible for quite some time. Labor has lost an incredible leader, the Democrats have lost an incredible leader and Utah has lost an incredible leader.

My wife, having seen the dark side of politics, left the capitol one day after Ed gave her a short word of encouragement. She will never forget that act of sincerity. Life is short and we will remember the treasures. Ed is one of them.

Warmest,
The Throckmorton's

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teacher | 7:53 a.m. Nov. 26, 2007

you and karen championed the cause of "children" they were always formost in your thoughts and actions. we have lost much with your passing but have had such wonderful things accomplished during his lifetime. i know that you, karen, will continue the legacy that you both have worked so hard to develop. he is mr. kearns, mr. granger, and most of all mr. hunter. thankyou for your strength, leadership, generousity. the world is a better place because of people like the mayne's

Brad Jensen | 8:13 a.m. Nov. 26, 2007

In the 2003-2004 school year, Hunter High's football and basketball teams pulled off a rare feat when it captured state championships in both varsity sports. I had a son that played on both of those teams, thus the memories and accomplishments will remain near and dear long into the future for me. Within the Hunter community there were those whom added to the excitement of the time. Senator Ed Mayne was one of them.

I can vividly remember the support offered by Senator Mayne during both of those championship runs. Senator Mayne led the way in becomming one of Hunter's biggest supporters. He took time out of his busy schedule to publicy acknowledge both teams during studentbody assemblies held at the school. His enthusiasim for the 'Hunter' community was evident, and I have no doubt that if similar success had been enjoyed at any other area school, Senator Mayne would have been just as supportive / congratulatory. Senator Mayne served his fellow man/citizens as well as anyone I've ever remembered.

May the efforts and legacy of Senator Ed Mayne never be forgotten or go unnoticed.

LDS Democrat | 8:22 a.m. Nov. 26, 2007

We have lost a dear friend, but we need never forget his example.

Ed Havas | 10:04 a.m. Nov. 26, 2007

We've lost a good man, a good public servant and a good friend to the people of Utah. Eddie was both tough as nails and soft-hearted, fierce in behalf of his constituents and unfailingly gentlemanly, stolidly Democrat and yet bipartisan in his good will and earned respect.
I will miss seeing and talking with him at the Legislature; his absence will be felt keenly. My thoughts and best wishes go to Karen and Ed's family.

Jeanetta Williams | 10:39 a.m. Nov. 26, 2007

As President of the NAACP Salt Lake Branch, we extend our deepest sympathy to Karen and family. Ed was my friend and a Life Member of the NAACP. He supported the NAACP in many ways. The NAACP will miss Ed, as he championed so many of our causes in Civil Rights.

Former Intern | 11:39 a.m. Nov. 26, 2007

Ed Mayne was a great example to all around him. I learned so much from his example and loved his humorous attitude. He will be missed!

Jake and Nicole | 12:00 p.m. Nov. 26, 2007

Uncle Ed,
I am amazed how one man can accomplish so much for so many. What an inspiration you have been to our family. There have been countless times when I have overheard conversations centered around you and what you stand for. How proud I was to let everyone know that I call you Uncle. The amount of time and effort you have dedicated to helping others, as well as your representation and support of everything that is fair and good, along with your principles and family values are traits that I try to install in my own childen, as well as the youth that I work with daily.
Thank you Uncle Ed for being such a powerful influence in our lives. I believe everyone knows how important you have been to the people of this state. It is also important that they know how loved, honored, cherished and perfect you have been for your family. In fact those are the same words you used the day you officially married me to my wife. We Love You Uncle Ed.

Jake, Nicole, Lexus and Taylor

Don and Necia | 1:06 p.m. Nov. 26, 2007

Karen and family,
Since forever we have loved and admired you both. From Granger High days we respected you, in our political passions we joined you, in our trails and troubles we prayed together for good outcomes. We've had ours, and are shedding great buckets of tears that you did not have yours. Karen, we love you as we loved Eddie. We are so thankful for his teddy bear nature and booming voice for our community, but mostly we are greatful for sharing over 45 years of our lives with him (and you)and never once having to question his integrity, honesty or the direction his ideals were taking him. We lost a dear, devoted friend, you lost your life's companion and sweetheat, and the kids and grandkids the greatest advocate they will ever have, but Karen, we will be praying daily for you as you work to fill the hole he has left in the community, the state and in the hearts of those countless people he has served. We love you and know you have the strength and courgae to carry on.
Don and Necia

Michelle (Gines) Powell | 1:08 p.m. Nov. 26, 2007

I was so saddened to hear the news about Ed passing away. He was always such a happy face to see around the neighborhood, and he will be dearly missed!

Karen, Jamie, and Paul: you are definitely in our prayers and thoughts. My deepest sympathies to you and the rest of the family!

JASON QUINN | 1:48 p.m. Nov. 26, 2007

Ed Mayne was may uncle and my friend. I did not havw father in my life so i looked up to my grandfather and my uncle as my role models and they are both incredible men. Ed was always there for me no matter what. And was always had west side folks in mind as well. He did alot of things to help myself and others and i love him for that and thats why he is my hero! Jason Quinn

PJ Todd | 6:01 p.m. Nov. 26, 2007

Karen and family;

I am so sorry for your loss. There must have been some trouble in the heavens for us to have to send our very best off to help. Thanks Eddy for the memories,I am going to miss you little buddy!

Leroy Crawford | 6:56 p.m. Nov. 26, 2007

Being a next door neighbor to a family makes it possible to see what they are really made of. Having had the blessing for many years of being neighbors to the Maynes, it did not take long to learn that there was nothing about Ed or Karen that was phony. I have never known more sincere, caring, loving and giving people in my life, and I will cherish forever the memories and lessons I have received from them. I feel like I have lost a brother. Karen, Paul and Jamie my prayers have been and will continue to be with you.

JB | 7:55 p.m. Nov. 26, 2007

This article should be on the FRONT page, not just the Utah section. Shame on you Des News for not giving more honor to this incredible man.

Rep. Curt Oda | 11:14 p.m. Nov. 26, 2007

Karen & family,
Please accept Nancy's and my deepest sympathies.
I got to know Ed nearly 10 years ago when I was lobbying. He has always been a great friend, an inspirational leader and great example. As an avid duck hunter, Ed was a passionate and genuine defender of the Second Amendment.
Ed, I will miss you!
Karen, I hope to see you on the Hill as Ed's replacement.
Curt & Nancy Oda

Your sis, Shauna | 9:39 a.m. Nov. 27, 2007

Many of you know Ed as the Great Statesman, Senator and AFL-CIO leader. These wonderful qualities began many years ago.

I have always loved Ed's big warm hands and his kind and gentle eyes. Ed was the oldest of four children and then he had three little sisters. He would do anything to protect and watch over us all and through the years, that remained the same. He taught us so much as a family...how to stay unified, to help others...to be kind.

I was humbled that even through his fight with cancer, and during his chemo treatments his conversations were never about himself. His strong sense to make sure that others were being taken care of, from Senior Citizens, to children and animals never ended. He loved his family...and the people of this great state. He is a man of honor that found more joy in giving to others than anything he could ever give to himself.

I know in my heart we will all feel his big, warm hands in ours...as he continues to watch over us...from Heaven. Knowing my brother...he will say he has a great view...to do just that.
I love you, my precious brother.
Shauna

Dennis J. P. Dooley | 10:31 a.m. Nov. 27, 2007

As former Democratic Chair of Carbon County, I worked with and loved "Senator Eddie" including long before he was Senator. I always went to the Labor Caucus during Convention just to see Eddie. He always made you feel better just by being around him. Yeah, he could be tough and he was nobody's fool. But I don't ever remember him saying he "hated" anybody; not even his bitterest rivals. He just wasn't that kind of man. "Well done, thou good and faithful servant. Rest you now."

Bonnie Kilgannon | 6:54 p.m. Nov. 27, 2007

Karen
I will write you privately but wanted to tell you and the rest of Ed's family how sorry I am for your loss. When I read Shauna's comments I could visualize Eddy. Maybe because that is how he seemed to me, like a big brother. He has been my mentor and friend. He was always there to lean on and offer advice. There are so many things I could say but mainly want to let you know that I will always remember how Ed's face would light up when he talked about you or the kids. He always credited you with being the best part of him!
I hope Ed knew how much I appreciated, respected and loved him not just for the help and advice he has given me but for the incredable man he was. I remember the last time I thanked him. He turned it around and thanked me. That was the kind of man he was. One who cared so much about others. Well to paraphrase you Ed, You did good!
Now it is our responsibility to learn from your example and continue your work. It will be my honor to try.
Love always

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