Vale – Edison Ben

Many thanks to Angus Rimanic (Class of 2020) for this reflection: 

Edison Ben began his journey at Mentone Grammar as a Year 9 student in 2017 after moving to Australia from China. Due to his larger-than-life attitude and friendly personality, he quickly became a much-loved member of the Mentone community. Edison was well-loved by his peers and teachers and was one person that you could always rely on to brighten up your day.

After his move, Edison became very eager to assimilate into Australian culture, gaining Australian citizenship in his final year at Mentone, this was something he was very proud of.

Edison, an aspiring competitive bodybuilder was extremely passionate about his health and the gym, often taking his time to train with other students. He could regularly be found in the gym at school or at one of the various local gyms he frequented, giving advice and helping out less experienced students who shared this passion.

Most of all Edison loved his family, friends and his dog Hulk. He never missed his daily walk with Hulk to Mentone beach. It was always a new adventure with Edison, many weekends were spent in Victoria’s high country where he, accompanied by a convoy of his mates, would spend weekends camping, laughing and making memories that will be forever cherished.

In a tragic turn of events, we as a community lost Edison on 7 July 2023 at the young age of 20. A loss that has not only impacted his friends and family but also the broader Mentone Grammar community.

For many of us life will never be the same without the joy, laughter and inspiration Edison offered through his unwavering discipline to his passions, loyalty to those around him, and overall positive and bubbly personality. Although his passing leaves a hole in our community and in our hearts, he undoubtedly will be a welcome addition to heaven, and may he find peace there.

Labore et Honore. 

(12 September 2002 – 7 July 2023)