Just like all who knew him, I am very saddened to hear of John's passing away. He enriched many lives including mine through his belief in people, his generosity, compassion and unflinching support. He will always remain an example to me of how to support and encourage others. I feel fortunate I got to know him during his journey among the mortals. My heartfelt condolences to the family.

What a beautiful posting, Kate. It sounds like he left this life with grace. Julie, my friend, my heart breaks for your loss. Sending love.

I am very sorry for you folks to have to go through this time when John passes from this life to what most of us believe to be a better life. It is never easy for those of us left behind but with time the pain does ease. I think (and hope) the memories will always remain. I remember John as the vibrant new research person who took my place at the Carrington Irrigation Station and really "remodeled" the type of research done there. I know the legislature left him with a number of challenges which he face "head on" and did some great research before moving on to Missouri and Washington. We are all proud of his accomplishments academically and I had the privilege of seeing what a great husband, father and Christian gentleman he was. This was definitely evidenced by the fact that he was holding a cross when he passed on.

Jan and I are thinking of you and offering our prayers to help strengthen your family in this time of sorrow.

Frank Sobolik

Kate, thank you for sharing so beautifully. I only met your dad this year at their open house, but could tell he was a special man. He impacted many. My prayers go up for you all. The hole that is left will remind you of the loss, but heaven is celebrating and he's dancing before the Lord. Hugs. - Maureen (Eileen's daughter)

I was afraid this day would come but I thought maybe, just maybe that he was turning the corner on this terrible disease. John was a very rich man. There is no one that I know that didn't like him and most of all, respect him. The people who were closest to him, his family, are very aware of what a special person they had in their midst. I am so thankful that I was able to spend some quality time with a man of quick wit, great sense of humor, compassion, and possessed a very serious spirit of intent. He brought out the very best in people.

This world's lightness dimmed this past Sunday with John's passage. I and Elizabeth are sadly stunned to hear this news. I thank God that John and I had a wonderful visit just last Wednesday. Gentle laughter, quiet conversation; remembrances of good times past. It was a perfect time together. His strength and careful resolve to stay the course; to see life through to its mortal conclusion at home, surrounded by love and good cheer is a remarkable testament to a truly great man. I am very sad to say so long for now to my friend and colleague. I did not know that our parting embrace and hug would be our last. Vaya Con Dios John.

I wrote last night but I guess I didn't hit the right button at the end.
Thank you so much Kate for letting us know so quickly.
I imagine it was hard to do but I so appreciated knowing so soon.
I also loved the music with it.

What a loss to your family and our world but he contributed so much in so many ways to so many people.
In John O' Donhue's prayer, "On the death of the beloved" he writes
" Let us not look for you only in memory,
Where we would grow lonely without you,
You would want us to find you in presence,
Beside us when beauty brightens,
When kindness glows
And music echoes eternal tones.

My heart goes out to you at this difficult time.
I am so glad I got to see all of you a month or so ago.

Please let me know if I can do anything to help and Julie, we wil get out breakfast at Streamliner one of these days in the future.
Much love and prayers.
Pat

I am glad to have known and worked with him. He was a kind, generous, warm, thoughtful and calming presence. I will miss him.

We are filled with sadness with the loss of such a special man. John was definitely "one of the good ones". We will forever treasure the memories we have of our wonderful times together in Carrington. May God wrap His loving arms around you and your family. We send you our love and our prayers.

John was such a wonderful guy and great role model. I will treasure the fond memories of the Carrington days with the Gardners/Metzgers/Paintners get-togethers. Sending love, hugs, and prayers for all of you.