Bo E. Hedlund ’68

Bo E. Hedlund ’68 died on March 8, 2022, in New Brighton, Minnesota

Bo E. Hedlund ’68

(The following was provided by the Star-Tribune on March 28, 2022)

Mr. Bo, 75, died peacefully on March 8, 2021, disappointed he could not get his second Covid shot so he could finally get to hug his grandchildren after a year of Covid social distancing. He had quite a run living a rich and full life and left behind a large circle of grieving relatives and friends around the world. Born in Uppsala, Sweden, to parents Lennart Hedlund and Eivor Närdin, he came to the US to attend graduate school and became a US citizen. He is survived by his wife, Ann, with whom he shared a fifty-six-year love story that began with letter writing across the Atlantic. He is also deeply missed by his two adoring children, son Erik (wife Julie, children Madeline, August, Cora and Noelle) and daughter Emilie (husband Paul and daughter Eliza). His Swedish family were an integral part of the Hedlund family life. In Sweden he is survived by special half-sister Åsa (husband Torbjörn, son Kimian), a treasured aunt, and numerous cousins and friends. After earning his PhD in biochemistry, Bo published extensively on his original research particularly on sickle cell anemia and iron metabolism, toxicity, and treatment. He later co-founded and became president of Biomedical Frontiers, focusing on pharmaceuticals for iron toxicity. Maintaining a strong interest in hematology and innovative research, he was a founding member of the International BioIron Society, and a consultant and match maker, connecting start-ups and researchers across the globe. A traveler at heart, his scientific and Swedish connections enabled him to travel the world. People who knew him know of his dry sense of humor, his incredible talent in the kitchen, the joy he brought to any dance floor (‘it’s all in the wrists’), and his generosity. A master of ceremonies, he loved to gather with friends and was always up for a celebration, especially those where he could introduce folks to Swedish traditions. He was a clear thinker, open-minded and curious about people and ideas. He played tennis twice weekly until health issues intervened, and even though his heart failure was progressive, he lived each day fully and with grace. He was loved deeply and will be greatly missed. We encourage all those missing Bo to enjoy a good meal and toast to him with a favorite glass of wine, to dance in their kitchen to a Beatles or Stones tune, and to enjoy spending time with the ones they love after such a long year of separation.

Add a Reminiscence:

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *