I have a feeling I'll regret this, but I flagged your post because:
1. In general, meta discussion like this does not improve HN, but is a distraction from useful content and discussion.
2. It's none of your business how edw519 chooses to spend his time.
If you want to start some kind of crusade, either to bring edw519 back or prevent HNers from "scaring people off" in the future, I think you're fighting a losing battle. If you valued his contribution so much, why not follow his example and contribute positively instead?
1. In general, meta discussion like this does not improve HN, but is a distraction from useful content and discussion.
2. It's none of your business how edw519 chooses to spend his time.
If you want to start some kind of crusade, either to bring edw519 back or prevent HNers from "scaring people off" in the future, I think you're fighting a losing battle. If you valued his contribution so much, why not follow his example and contribute positively instead?