Ed will be reverently missed. My thoughts of him are as sharp as the days I knew him while an undergraduate in the early 70s at Wake. First comes the winning smile that heralded the warmth and sincerity of his friendships with the many who had the good fortune to know him. Next, and of great importance to me, was the willingness to help students work their way through trying times–however difficult. He was there for me as I know he was for so many others; and, as always, my thanks to you, Ed! To Jean and all of the Christmans, our warm thoughts are with you. Heaven has welcomed a giant!
Robert B. Ledford
Upon arriving on campus in the fall of 1956 Ed Christman was one of the fondest and most helpful persons that I remember. He was always there and available to help any new student that needed him. He was one person that you could not forget because he helped in every way as a true friend. He was and always will be a true friend. He is perhaps the fondest memory of my time at Wake Forest. His tremendous influence on my life is still magnificent after 58 years. Thanks Ed for your part in my life. It has been great and will continue to be until I see you in Heaven.
Ken Zick
Chaplain Ed Christman’s consummate love of others permeated his ministry. It knew no bounds. Each person was made to feel welcome and acknowledged. This spirit was evidenced most singularly in his promotion of the enduring tradition of the Lovefeast at Wake Forest. Ed believed in the power to change people through showing our love in service to others. I will always remember his initiative to create a Volunteer Service Corp. Even he was surprised when hundreds of students showed up for an initial organizational meeting. He shouldn’t have been. He had spent months cultivating the idea and personally inviting students to consider its power. The VSC is a profound and lasting legacy of his work. In the often stressful work of student affairs Brother Ed offered wise and humorous perspectives on the journeys of our students. When colleagues were anxious, he calmed their fears. When they were hesitant to act, he offered courage. When we took ourselves too seriously, he would relate a story or punctuate our conversation with a “one liner” that would precipitate gales of laughter. Ed moved with ease around campus – spreading good humor, love, and insights. He simply brought out the best in Wake Forest. He knew everyone by their goodness. He knew your name. Ken Zick, formerly Vice-President & Dean, Student Affairs
Kevin Mauney, ’71
No doubt, the prophet Micah will soon meet Ed, perhaps over some Moravian sugar cake and Russian tea in the attic of a library. Although sporting a big, disarming grin, the very white newbie will listen intently to what the very old prophet has to say, which just might be this: “He hath showed thee, O man, what is good — and you went out and did it!”
Justice. Mercy. Humility. Ed Christman did what was required of him, and we are all the better for it.
shyam udani(1973)
IT WAS SO COMFORTING TO TALK TO ED CHRISTMAN WHEN A LOT OF ASIANS WERE EXPELLED FROM UGANDA.IT WAS A TIME OF FEELING LOST AND LIVING IN A VACUUM WITH UNITED KINGDOM AS A NEW HOME.HIS ADVISE WAS TO HAVE FAITH IN GOD AND THINGS WOULD TURN OUT FINE.DEAN ROBERT DYER WAS ALWAYS VERY HELPFUL.I HAVE ALSO HAD GOOD EXPERIENCES WITH ED CHRISTMAN AT CAMP HANES.HE WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN AND RUSSIAN TEA AND MORAVIAN CAKE WILL ALSO BE NEVER FORGOTTEN.SOMEONE HAS SAID”PEOPLE WILL NOT ALWAYS REMEMBER WHAT YOU SAID.PEOPLE WILL NOT ALWAYS REMEMBER WHAT YOU DID.BUT PEOPLE WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER HOW YOU MADE THEM FEEL”THAT WAS ED CHRISTMAN WHO MADE ME FEEL AT HOME AT WAKE FOREST.HE WILL ALWAYS BE MISSED.GOD BLESS.
Craig Fansler
I had the pleasure of working with Ed on several projects during my early days at Wake Forest. He made it so much fun. In a word-his spirit was incredible, positive and encouraging to everyone. Ed’s spirit will be missed and treasured by those who knew him.
Alan Smith ’92’
Dearest memories. Sweetest smile. Such a mind. Largest of hearts – forever in mine. May GOD bless you Jean. You friend in Cherokee.
Jeff Dobbs
Ed Christman was an insightful, compassionate and humorous man. Whenever we had the chance to talk he always offered words of wisdom coupled with a funny anecdote. He sought me out after a home game against Carolina to compliment me on my handling of some unruly fans. “You must have been feeling the spirit of the upcoming MLK holiday” he said. “It’s hard to be nonviolent when it comes to the Tarheels”. When I brought my niece to campus for a visit he took time to meet and speak with her at length. It was another fond memory. He leaves a wonderful legacy of spirituality, wit, wisdom and love.
George Lewis ’92
Other than my parents, I cannot think of anyone who has had a more positive impact on my life than Ed Christman. Ed was the perfect mentor to students who want to take their Christian commitment seriously, and yet want to maintain intellectual honesty. He was not sanctimonious or self-righteous. He was not an in-your-face enforcer of doctrinal correctness. Although he was full of humor and always had a sparkle in his eyes, he had a basic sense of warmth and concern for students that made students love him and value his counsel and his companionship. He was courageous in his support of the ethical principles that are found in the teachings of Jesus – even when some of the ethical stands he made were not popular at the time. Ed was a friend and a good man, and I will miss him terribly.
I send my prayers and good wishes to Jean and the rest of his family.
Mark Young
Chaplain Emeritus Christman was a living example of Pro Humanitate at it’s best.
Adam Gresko
To say Ed will be missed is an understatement, as he was a man of God of enormous stature.
Spanning generations and both campuses, it is hard to imagine anyone who has left a more indelible mark upon our community, and it’s equally difficult to imagine a person to whom Wake meant more. Humble of heart yet with the courage of a lion, he was a treasure to all of us.
Jean, we love you, and you and your daughters will be in our prayers.
Catherine Frier Korzen
Ed has been such a memorable and positive part of my life that I was just talking about him this Christmas Eve, shortly before hearing the sad news. My husband John and I were telling our guests stories of the first Wake Forest Passion Play, and the amazing chaplain who played Noah and Lazarus and even went to cast parties with us (including the one visited by the police). Wake Forest has lost one of its brightest, warmest lights…but Ed’s spirit will shine in the WFU Lovefeast candles as long as that beautiful tradition he helped foster endures.
Catherine Frier Korzen ‘82
Amy Huffman Ringwood ’74
Ed Christman epitomized Pro Humanitate, and enriched the lives of all Deacons.
I, like many people, met Ed at the WFU freshman retreat. He had so much energy, gave so much – from the camp to the coffee house. I remember the way he would walk close to your face when he met you, but then say something like, I don’t care what you look like because I can’t see you very well anyway. And so by stripping away the facade, he made you feel that he could see you better than anyone else because he sensed so much. He was a true and treasured person.
windsor westbrook sherrill
He knew my name; he knew my name. And what a treat it was to hear him call it across the quad. Ed Christman made me feel loved and treasured.
Windsor (Class of 1987)
Martin Province
As a music major in the 70s, I was Ed’s office a lot. I was also fortunate to be on the faculty for 12 years, and I spent more hours than I probably should talking with Ed. He served as pastor for my wife and me during the months leading to our wedding and officiated at the ceremony in Wilkes County. He was a constant inspiration to me as to what one person can mean to a host of others. Most of all, he was my friend.
Marty ’78
Robert Smith (’95)
I was called to Rev. Christman’s office during the Fall of 1995 to be given the privilege of being the candle that spread light to everyone else during the Lovefeast that year. To this day, I have no idea why I was given that assignment. My surprise was that he knew who I was and called me by name. In the short conversation that we had that day, he looked not just directly at me but into me as well, seeing my soul and potential. He knew me. The challenge he made to me and the commission he gave, I have not yet accomplished but to achieve daily. When I see the candle on my bookshelf, I am reminded of it. Rev. Christman was a special person and we all are blessed.
Jerry Dotson
How fortunate I have been to know and love Ed Christman (my sister-in-law’s father) and to be able to attend his memorial service was indeed an honor. To hear great men and women of God remember Ed in such an eloquent way was a treasure. I heard a lot of stories and how much of an impact Ed had on Wake Forest University. I hope someday a book will be written that captures these stories and memories. Much Love to Kim and Stan, Carolyn and Ron and their son, and especially Jean who has not only been Ed’s spouse but his partner in all he accomplished.
Mary S. Petroshius Heckert
I appreciated the statement “No other chaplain could be more aptly named.” When my father died, with no warning, the first day of my last semester of school, my life went on a different path, in contrast to all the other seniors flying high and having fun. Ed Christman paid me a visit in my dorm room on my sorority hall. He was comfortable despite all the goofy college girl commotion. He was not superior, preachy, aloof. He was human, kind, quiet… listening while reaching out. It was quite a hug from the community, through him. Never forgotten. I also attended Pre-School prior to my freshman year. Like Ed Christman, I attended WFU sight unseen as I’d been living in South Africa prior to the start of freshman year. Pre-School was, again, not a preachy indoctrination by any means, but rather a very human hug and a great way to get to know a small group of students well before the entire student body arrives at school. What a giver. He will be missed. -Mary Sue ’94
John Haverkamp MD
I met Chaplain Ed at the preschool retreat in ’62 and each retreat thereafter for 4 years. His quiet Christ like demeanor in befriending a confused and bewilderd student like myself was never forgotten. In each WF magazine I would look to follow the accomplishment of Mr. Dr. Preacher Pastor Ed. Well done brother Ed.
Kara S Coats
“And some students summoned their courage and went forth and shared their talents with the world while others hoarded them in fear.” Chaplain Christman, freshman orientation 1988, Wait Chapel.
Words I have treasured and returned to over the years in times of self doubt. Chaplain Christman was an extraordinary man whose indomitable spirit and words of wisdom gave peace to many souls, including mine.
Ed will be reverently missed. My thoughts of him are as sharp as the days I knew him while an undergraduate in the early 70s at Wake. First comes the winning smile that heralded the warmth and sincerity of his friendships with the many who had the good fortune to know him. Next, and of great importance to me, was the willingness to help students work their way through trying times–however difficult. He was there for me as I know he was for so many others; and, as always, my thanks to you, Ed! To Jean and all of the Christmans, our warm thoughts are with you. Heaven has welcomed a giant!
Upon arriving on campus in the fall of 1956 Ed Christman was one of the fondest and most helpful persons that I remember. He was always there and available to help any new student that needed him. He was one person that you could not forget because he helped in every way as a true friend. He was and always will be a true friend. He is perhaps the fondest memory of my time at Wake Forest. His tremendous influence on my life is still magnificent after 58 years. Thanks Ed for your part in my life. It has been great and will continue to be until I see you in Heaven.
Chaplain Ed Christman’s consummate love of others permeated his ministry. It knew no bounds. Each person was made to feel welcome and acknowledged. This spirit was evidenced most singularly in his promotion of the enduring tradition of the Lovefeast at Wake Forest. Ed believed in the power to change people through showing our love in service to others. I will always remember his initiative to create a Volunteer Service Corp. Even he was surprised when hundreds of students showed up for an initial organizational meeting. He shouldn’t have been. He had spent months cultivating the idea and personally inviting students to consider its power. The VSC is a profound and lasting legacy of his work. In the often stressful work of student affairs Brother Ed offered wise and humorous perspectives on the journeys of our students. When colleagues were anxious, he calmed their fears. When they were hesitant to act, he offered courage. When we took ourselves too seriously, he would relate a story or punctuate our conversation with a “one liner” that would precipitate gales of laughter. Ed moved with ease around campus – spreading good humor, love, and insights. He simply brought out the best in Wake Forest. He knew everyone by their goodness. He knew your name. Ken Zick, formerly Vice-President & Dean, Student Affairs
No doubt, the prophet Micah will soon meet Ed, perhaps over some Moravian sugar cake and Russian tea in the attic of a library. Although sporting a big, disarming grin, the very white newbie will listen intently to what the very old prophet has to say, which just might be this: “He hath showed thee, O man, what is good — and you went out and did it!”
Justice. Mercy. Humility. Ed Christman did what was required of him, and we are all the better for it.
IT WAS SO COMFORTING TO TALK TO ED CHRISTMAN WHEN A LOT OF ASIANS WERE EXPELLED FROM UGANDA.IT WAS A TIME OF FEELING LOST AND LIVING IN A VACUUM WITH UNITED KINGDOM AS A NEW HOME.HIS ADVISE WAS TO HAVE FAITH IN GOD AND THINGS WOULD TURN OUT FINE.DEAN ROBERT DYER WAS ALWAYS VERY HELPFUL.I HAVE ALSO HAD GOOD EXPERIENCES WITH ED CHRISTMAN AT CAMP HANES.HE WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN AND RUSSIAN TEA AND MORAVIAN CAKE WILL ALSO BE NEVER FORGOTTEN.SOMEONE HAS SAID”PEOPLE WILL NOT ALWAYS REMEMBER WHAT YOU SAID.PEOPLE WILL NOT ALWAYS REMEMBER WHAT YOU DID.BUT PEOPLE WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER HOW YOU MADE THEM FEEL”THAT WAS ED CHRISTMAN WHO MADE ME FEEL AT HOME AT WAKE FOREST.HE WILL ALWAYS BE MISSED.GOD BLESS.
I had the pleasure of working with Ed on several projects during my early days at Wake Forest. He made it so much fun. In a word-his spirit was incredible, positive and encouraging to everyone. Ed’s spirit will be missed and treasured by those who knew him.
Dearest memories. Sweetest smile. Such a mind. Largest of hearts – forever in mine. May GOD bless you Jean. You friend in Cherokee.
Ed Christman was an insightful, compassionate and humorous man. Whenever we had the chance to talk he always offered words of wisdom coupled with a funny anecdote. He sought me out after a home game against Carolina to compliment me on my handling of some unruly fans. “You must have been feeling the spirit of the upcoming MLK holiday” he said. “It’s hard to be nonviolent when it comes to the Tarheels”. When I brought my niece to campus for a visit he took time to meet and speak with her at length. It was another fond memory. He leaves a wonderful legacy of spirituality, wit, wisdom and love.
Other than my parents, I cannot think of anyone who has had a more positive impact on my life than Ed Christman. Ed was the perfect mentor to students who want to take their Christian commitment seriously, and yet want to maintain intellectual honesty. He was not sanctimonious or self-righteous. He was not an in-your-face enforcer of doctrinal correctness. Although he was full of humor and always had a sparkle in his eyes, he had a basic sense of warmth and concern for students that made students love him and value his counsel and his companionship. He was courageous in his support of the ethical principles that are found in the teachings of Jesus – even when some of the ethical stands he made were not popular at the time. Ed was a friend and a good man, and I will miss him terribly.
I send my prayers and good wishes to Jean and the rest of his family.
Chaplain Emeritus Christman was a living example of Pro Humanitate at it’s best.
To say Ed will be missed is an understatement, as he was a man of God of enormous stature.
Spanning generations and both campuses, it is hard to imagine anyone who has left a more indelible mark upon our community, and it’s equally difficult to imagine a person to whom Wake meant more. Humble of heart yet with the courage of a lion, he was a treasure to all of us.
Jean, we love you, and you and your daughters will be in our prayers.
Ed has been such a memorable and positive part of my life that I was just talking about him this Christmas Eve, shortly before hearing the sad news. My husband John and I were telling our guests stories of the first Wake Forest Passion Play, and the amazing chaplain who played Noah and Lazarus and even went to cast parties with us (including the one visited by the police). Wake Forest has lost one of its brightest, warmest lights…but Ed’s spirit will shine in the WFU Lovefeast candles as long as that beautiful tradition he helped foster endures.
Catherine Frier Korzen ‘82
Ed Christman epitomized Pro Humanitate, and enriched the lives of all Deacons.
I, like many people, met Ed at the WFU freshman retreat. He had so much energy, gave so much – from the camp to the coffee house. I remember the way he would walk close to your face when he met you, but then say something like, I don’t care what you look like because I can’t see you very well anyway. And so by stripping away the facade, he made you feel that he could see you better than anyone else because he sensed so much. He was a true and treasured person.
He knew my name; he knew my name. And what a treat it was to hear him call it across the quad. Ed Christman made me feel loved and treasured.
Windsor (Class of 1987)
As a music major in the 70s, I was Ed’s office a lot. I was also fortunate to be on the faculty for 12 years, and I spent more hours than I probably should talking with Ed. He served as pastor for my wife and me during the months leading to our wedding and officiated at the ceremony in Wilkes County. He was a constant inspiration to me as to what one person can mean to a host of others. Most of all, he was my friend.
Marty ’78
I was called to Rev. Christman’s office during the Fall of 1995 to be given the privilege of being the candle that spread light to everyone else during the Lovefeast that year. To this day, I have no idea why I was given that assignment. My surprise was that he knew who I was and called me by name. In the short conversation that we had that day, he looked not just directly at me but into me as well, seeing my soul and potential. He knew me. The challenge he made to me and the commission he gave, I have not yet accomplished but to achieve daily. When I see the candle on my bookshelf, I am reminded of it. Rev. Christman was a special person and we all are blessed.
How fortunate I have been to know and love Ed Christman (my sister-in-law’s father) and to be able to attend his memorial service was indeed an honor. To hear great men and women of God remember Ed in such an eloquent way was a treasure. I heard a lot of stories and how much of an impact Ed had on Wake Forest University. I hope someday a book will be written that captures these stories and memories. Much Love to Kim and Stan, Carolyn and Ron and their son, and especially Jean who has not only been Ed’s spouse but his partner in all he accomplished.
I appreciated the statement “No other chaplain could be more aptly named.” When my father died, with no warning, the first day of my last semester of school, my life went on a different path, in contrast to all the other seniors flying high and having fun. Ed Christman paid me a visit in my dorm room on my sorority hall. He was comfortable despite all the goofy college girl commotion. He was not superior, preachy, aloof. He was human, kind, quiet… listening while reaching out. It was quite a hug from the community, through him. Never forgotten. I also attended Pre-School prior to my freshman year. Like Ed Christman, I attended WFU sight unseen as I’d been living in South Africa prior to the start of freshman year. Pre-School was, again, not a preachy indoctrination by any means, but rather a very human hug and a great way to get to know a small group of students well before the entire student body arrives at school. What a giver. He will be missed. -Mary Sue ’94
I met Chaplain Ed at the preschool retreat in ’62 and each retreat thereafter for 4 years. His quiet Christ like demeanor in befriending a confused and bewilderd student like myself was never forgotten. In each WF magazine I would look to follow the accomplishment of Mr. Dr. Preacher Pastor Ed. Well done brother Ed.
“And some students summoned their courage and went forth and shared their talents with the world while others hoarded them in fear.” Chaplain Christman, freshman orientation 1988, Wait Chapel.
Words I have treasured and returned to over the years in times of self doubt. Chaplain Christman was an extraordinary man whose indomitable spirit and words of wisdom gave peace to many souls, including mine.