Edward Grefe inventor of corporate grassroots
Edward Alexander Grefe, full of vigor and spirit until his final moments, died unexpectedly on February 17, 2017. An autopsy report is pending. Family, friends and colleagues describe Ed as a kind and extraordinary human being with an incredible presence. He left a lasting impression on those he met. He will be remembered as being colorful, charismatic, generous, passionate, fearless and insightful. Ed always had big, bold ideas and was always trying new things. His red convertible and colorful wardrobe exemplified his style. His last several birthday celebrations included skydiving, trapeze lessons and zip lining.
A native of Washington, DC, Ed was born on May 31, 1937. Growing up in DC’s Brookland neighborhood, he was a member of the first class at Archbishop Carroll High School and also graduated from Catholic University. Ed spent more than 40 years in communications and politics working at various times in his career as a journalist, legislative aide, political strategist, VP of Public Affairs for a Fortune 500 Company, entrepreneur, grassroots organizer and graduate school professor.