Edward M. Kerwin

Weston - Dr. Edward M. Kerwin, Jr. of Weston died Friday, December 31, 2004 at the Dorothy Frances House, Waltham. He was 77. Born in Oak Park, Illinois, a son of the late Edward M. and Marie (LeTourneau) Kerwin, he came to Boston to attend college at MIT. After receiving his undergraduate degrees, he joined the firm of Bolt Beranek and Newman (BBN). After working his entire career at BBN he retired in 1996. His contributions to the fields of acoustics, vibration and damping include numerous discoveries, a patent for 'Apparatus For Damping' and a participatory role in the development of new mathematical equations. During World War II he served with the U.S. Navy. Ed and his late wife Peg were active in their local Catholic community, devoting time and effort to the development of the Pre-Cana marriage preparation course. He enjoyed his participation in the choirs at Saint Julia's Church and Pope John Seminary, as well as numerous other roles in the church. Ed led a life of service. He and his wife helped to initiate the Metco program in Weston, provided housing and support to pregnant teens and offered short and long-term shelter and care to people in need. His unfailing example of living for others leaves an impression on his children and all who came in contact with him. His strong sense of adventure inspired him to run races, climb glaciers, take great pictures, travel, make music, and provide insightful humor. The husband of the late Margaret A. (O'Grady) Kerwin, he leaves his children, Dennis Kerwin of Maynard, Michael Kerwin of Wayland, Claire Fitts of Scarborough, ME, John Kerwin of Melrose, Ned Kerwin of Los Angeles, CA, Paul Kerwin of Mt. Pleasant, SC, Joseph Kerwin of Maynard, David Kerwin of Sandown, NH and Janet Neuhauser of Maynard; two sisters, Mary White and Kay Ryan both of IL; four brothers, Michael Kerwin of MI, Thomas Kerwin of CO, Joseph Kerwin of TX, and Paul Kerwin of NC; 13 grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He was also a brother of the late John Kerwin. A Funeral Mass will be offered at 10 a.m. Thursday, January 6, in Saint Julia's Church, Weston Center. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery, Weston. Visiting hours are Wednesday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. in The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street (Rte. 20), Waltham. Memorial donations may be made to Bristol Lodge, 50 Prospect Street, Waltham, MA 02453 or the charity of one's choice.