It hardly seems possible that gentle Russell Beach, beloved husband to our champion, Dorothy, passed on May 15, 2003. It seems like only yesterday that we all felt so terribly sad.

Let's think about a contribution that Russell made to this world, that most people wouldn't think about. Let's think about the value of true friendship.

Have you ever wondered how others stay vigilent about environmental activism? How DO they do that? How do they manage to stay in the game, and push, push, push for cities to be smarter, greener, and safer? And succeed. Well, in Dorothy's case, I suspect it had something to do with the steadying, gentle, loving presence of her husband, Russell. Perhaps you know the type of person I'm talking about. You'd go into a room, and there was a nice smile, warm hello, and gracious welcome. A calming presence, and if there was anything that bothered Russell, you nor I would ever know it, because he wouldn't want it to become your problem, too.

I have absolutely no doubt whatsoever that Russell has a long list of personal achievements that would impress just about anyone. If I get a chance, I'd love to know what those were, but here's the thing. I never really knew, because no-one ever SAID. Meetings only dealt with the topic at hand - usually how to get herbicides & pesticides out of communities, or how to stop irresponsible use of public property. How to save the Fraser River.

We may not see Russell right now, but his presence is still felt. We are grateful that he has been an important part of our lives, and for doing as much as he did, both directly and indirectly, to pioneer environmentalism in the Greater Vancouver area.

We like to know that he is, with us in spirit.