Edward Van Baerle Obituary

Edward Van Baerle was unique. He worked to improve things discovered and to discover new things. And with it all he maintained a sense of humor and horse sense. I first met Eddie when I was suffering some problems. Eddie kept me laughing. I will never forget. My condolences to Betty and family.

I met Ed through my daughter Andrea,who rents office space in his building located on La Salle Street. Although my contact with him was limited to my visits in Chicago,as compared to many others-since I live in Mississippi; he was my favorite raconteur and I always looked forward to a meeting with him. Ed Van Baerle's friendship to me and my daughter was a pleasure and sincerely appreciated. He was a graceous man, inviting us to his studio and explaining his techniques and equiptment; some that I had never seen before. He obviousely loved his work. My daughter thought very highly of him. We had some great meals made memorable by his conversation, wit and knowledge. He was a man talented within and outside of his field, one whose company was always a pleasure. My daughter Andrea and I will miss him.

I had the pleasure of talking with "Eddie" (as my dad Myron calls him) when I was visiting my dad in Hyde Park and Eddie called to talk. Luckily, I was the one who picked up the telephone and ended up having a fascination conversation of at least 30 minutes. I believe that took place during my June 2006 visit.

I was back in Hyde Park at the beginning of this month and regret that I did not telephone Eddie to say hello. Even more, I regret never having the opportunity to meet him in person.

Eddie was a friend to my father, a fellow photographer, for almost 50 years. For that, I am grateful.

I'll always remember Ed as a towering figure with a quick wit and a unique point of view. He seemed to draw creativity to him. While our brief personal encounters were always orchestrated by his eldest child, I'm afraid I never knew his professional work. I can only attest to the excellent character of the children he raised. Great job, Ed. You raised bright, intelligent children who freely and openly question the world. What better legacy does a man leave behind?

In 1957, Ed gave me my first photographer's assistant job. His support and encouragement influenced my forty year career as a commercial photographer. Ed had inspiration and professional skill. My condolances to Betty and the whole family. Sincerely, Bob Hart

Ed will not be forgotten and I am sure he will live on through the many people he influenced. Ed had a amazing way with people and made friends wherever he went. His generosity and excitement for life was amazing and unlike anyone I've seen. He truly followed his vision in life, which is something I will always take with me. 676 Lasalle, Ed's creative community, will never be the same, and his passing is a great loss to all that knew him, myself included. My sympathies to his family and love ones.
Viva Ed!

I extend my condolences to Ed's family and friends. I worked in the 676 N. LaSalle building (Pat Quinn's office)for a number of years and Ed was truly a character. I remember being in the office of the building once and he was showing me pictures of what the building looked like when he bought it in the early 1970's. I'm sad to see him go, but will have good memories of him.

Although no words can really help to ease the loss you bear, just know that you are very close in every thought and prayer.
May the Lord Bless you and your family.

Ricardo Sandoval

I have a few anecdotes that I could tell, but mostly I remember the stories that Ed told me. I miss him already.

Ed was one of the greatest people I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. His quick wit, creative insight and kind smile will never be forgotten. I will truely miss you Ed and will always remeber the great times we had together. I concider myself lucky to have known you. Your impact on my life made it forever better in so many ways. I know that I am not alone in that, as you tried to be fair, kind, honest and helpful to eveeryone you got to know.