Edward Odon Woolner

A rare species – real estate developer, conservationist and patron of the Arts all rolled into one.

Born in Hungary; a Holocaust survivor, Edward Odon Woolner walked across Europe to Paris as a young man amid the turmoil of WWII. He immigrated to the United States on a student visa to study architecture at the University of Kansas and at Columbia University; his academic career was interrupted when Frank Lloyd Wright offered him an apprenticeship. When his parents were able to leave Hungary, Edward left the US to help them settle in Montreal, Canada and in 1954 he became a Canadian citizen. After his father’s bedding business was established, Edward ventured boldly into the real estate development business, alone, executing a project of one thousand acres in suburban Montreal that included shopping centers, industrial buildings and residential subdivisions.

In the early 1970’s Edward undertook some business with two Canadian brothers, Eric and Leland Salomon. The ‘three amigos’ became partners, stringing their names together to form Ederlee Corporation and Ederlee Drive in Cary. As president of Regency Park, Edward’s vision transformed 705 acres into the iconic office, cultural and residential complex we know today; helping to spearhead Cary’s development towards a cohesive, balanced and thriving community.

A long-time patron and lover of the North Carolina Symphony for more than 35 years, Edward initiated development of the Koka Booth Amphitheatre at Regency Park where thousands gather each year to enjoy the music of the Summerfest series in a magnificent outdoor setting. He was also a key figure in establishing the Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve; indeed, his love for the environment, coupled with an unparalleled eye for design, is evident in the thoughtful and graceful composition of Regency Park, the office buildings, and even his own home.

Edward O. Woolner became a very proud citizen of the United States of America on July 4, 2000 in a ceremony attended by the then Mayor of Cary, Koka Booth along with Robert Godbold at Fort Johnston, Southpoint, NC. Edward remarked often that, aside from his wedding day in 1994, it was the best day of his life!

He leaves behind his devoted and loving wife, Darliene Sweeten Woolner; daughter, Gretchen Tucker of Georgia; sister, Eva Woolner and niece, Diana Gaty of Montreal; and a multitude of good friends who enjoyed his wit, his empathy and his charm. Edward’s journey on earth is complete, his legacy will be carried forward by those granted the extraordinary gift of his guidance and friendship.

A private burial will be held at the Raleigh Hebrew Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to:

• North Carolina Symphony, https://www.ncsymphony.org/support/

• Transitions LifeCare, https://transitionslifecare.org/donate/

• A Lotta Love, https://Alottalove.org