Edward Gardner Greenman

Edward Gardner Greenman

1936–2026

“A life well-lived”

In a great loss to the world, Edward Gardner Greenman entered eternal rest on May 7, 2026. Born on July 27, 1936, in Chicago, Illinois, Ed was a natural leader who made the world safer and whose thoughtful perspective empowered those around him. In condolences to his heartbroken wife, Angela, people around the world have shared that their lives were better because they knew him.

A veteran of the U.S. Air Force, Ed served his country with honor in Korea. He then studied nuclear engineering at Iowa State University and, following graduation, began a long career in nuclear safety. A hard worker, he progressed from reactor operator into the Senior Executive Service at the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission where he implemented key policy decisions.

In 1991, Ed received the distinguished Presidential Meritorious Executive Award for sustained superior performance in management of programs in the public service. He was very proud of this special honor.

A great conversationalist, Ed enjoyed engaging with people. He pursued a thoughtful approach to life and used his excellent problem-solving skills to become a mentor to many, both personally and professionally. His fair, objective views led to success in managing complex personnel issues, including Employee Concern programs and various Differing Professional Opinion processes.

He formed lifelong international relationships—many friends becoming like family—while a senior expert for the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). During his decade with the IAEA, he assisted significantly in the development of nuclear power regulatory bodies in Slovakia and Bulgaria, a “model project.” Among other missions for the IAEA, he participated in team reviews, developed inspection programs and training manuals, and conducted workshops in Indonesia, Egypt, Thailand, Slovenia, Germany, China, and Japan.

Following the Fukushima event, he coordinated two high-level, unique nuclear safety workshops for the Department of Energy where he also assessed and inspected facilities.

A powerful life spirit, Ed loved music and dancing. He especially loved the Northwoods and, as an active archer, fisherman, and hunter, embraced all that it offered. He cherished Northwoods moments—solving life’s problems with his fishing buddy while rocking gently on the water or sitting in the woods at dawn to hear nature awaken as owls talked to him.

Having survived three cancers, Ed had a warrior’s heart and many have said he was the strongest person they knew.

He was a devoted and loving husband to Angela and was proud of his children Paul (Linda) Greenman and Teri (Wes Nelson) Greenman. He burst with pride when talking about his grandchildren, Charles and Jessica Greenman.

A committal service will be held on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the Little Falls Veterans Cemetery, 15550 Hwy 115, Little Falls, MN 56345. Following the burial there will be a gathering for comradery and reminiscences of Ed’s life at the Walker American Legion, 407 Front St, Walker, MN 56484, at 3:30 p.m.

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