Edmund Freeman

Edmund Freeman, born March 5, 1947, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Belknap and Florence Freeman, was a brilliant engineer, devoted family man, and generous mentor. He passed away on February 7, surrounded by his wife and five children.

Ed earned a PhD in Electrical Engineering from Johns Hopkins University and spent his career as a thought leader in advanced engineering and systems design. His work influenced the development of ship simulators, P-3 communications systems, and Tomahawk missile technology, among other complex defense and navigation systems. Colleagues knew him not only for his intellectual rigor, but for his curiosity, integrity, and willingness to mentor and guide others. He took great pride in helping younger engineers grow and find their own paths.

Outside of work, Ed’s great passion was cycling. He routinely rode more than 200 miles in a weekend, finding both challenge and peace on the road. When he wasn’t riding, he could often be found working on his bike, endlessly refining and tuning it — a reflection of his technical mind and his love of motion and freedom.

Ed was endlessly curious and embraced learning throughout his life. In recent years, he took up learning Korean and enjoyed K-pop music and Korean dramas — a quirk that delighted his family and reflected his openness to new ideas, cultures, and experiences.

Above all else, Ed was deeply committed to his children. He believed in them, invested in them, and showed up for them in steady, enduring ways. He taught them to think for themselves, to act with integrity, and to approach the world with curiosity and independence. What he gave his children — time, guidance, confidence, and love — was among the most important work of his life.

Ed was kind and principled. He always did the right thing. He was steadfast and led with integrity. He was a deep thinker and a guiding light to those who knew him best.

He took great joy and pride in his family. Ed is survived by his wife, Kira Tewalt; his children D. Eric Freeman, Gregory Freeman, Timothy (Margaret) Freeman, Muluken Tewalt, and Genet Tewalt; and his beloved grandchildren Lillian Freeman, Spencer Freeman, James Freeman, Noah Salzman, Aliza Freeman, and Ariel Freeman.

A Celebration of Life will be held on February 14 at 4:00 pm at Joseph Gawler’s Son, with a reception to follow from 5:00–7:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association.