Ed Bonney, a leader in Freeport’s business and passenger rail communities, passed away recently at the age of 88 after a short illness. He served for many years on the TrainRiders Board of Directors, working tirelessly to integrate the town’s business community with the Downeaster service between Brunswick and Boston.

To strengthen those ties, Ed worked with Freeport’s Chamber of Commerce and the Freeport Economic Development Council to support a variety of activities from the Downeaster Anniversary celebrations to the TrainRiders Annual meetings.

He was also instrumental in working with LL Bean and the Town of Freeport to convert the Freeport Fire Station Building, adjacent to the railroad tracks, to a new Visitor and Train Station across from the Downeaster platform. Ed could frequently be seen on the platform greeting arriving passengers at Maine’s premier shopping stop – regardless of the weather.

Ed was also the Executive Director of the Maine Bar association from 1973 to 1988. From their website, Ed's background is a reflection of his commitment to public service.

"A native of Bucksfield, Ed grew up in Lisbon Falls, served four years in the Air Force, and later became an air traffic controller in New York. After moving back to Maine to raise his family, Ed became heavily involved in Maine Democratic politics. He served as chair of the Cumberland County Democratic Committee, where he met George Mitchell, and later served as executive director of the Maine Democratic Party when Mitchell was state chair."

Ed's tireless dedication to Maine, particularly the legal profession, the business community and to passenger rail in the state, will always be remembered and greatly appreciated. Rest easy, Ed.

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