It is with a sad heart that I write to you today.
On February 13, 2022, our dear friend and dedicated Executive Director, Rich Wolfe, passed away suddenly.
Any of you that knew Rich appreciated him for so many things. He was so kind and respectful to anyone he met. He was humble beyond belief, and if you knew him at all, you knew his superpowers were many. I think Ari said it really well. Two strong superpowers Rich had were love and curiosity… if you ever had a chance to talk to Rich you would know that he wanted to learn as much as possible about you… he was up for any adventure and spent a lot of time traveling. I always told him that I had to live vicariously through him on his travels as I was not sure that I would ever make it to as many places in my lifetime as he did in a year. I was amazed a few years ago when I turned 50. I said “Hey Rich, do you want to come to Canada for my 50th?” I never expected he actually would. He arrived for a 5-day visit. We had a wonderful time. He was hoping to come back soon.
Rich was in a really great place in his life when he passed. He and Elizabeth Riley had just purchased Jonathan’s Sprouts from Bob and Barb Sanderson, and he was loving this part of his work. He had enormous dreams about their future. He was in Mexico visiting friends and was sounding so happy and grounded the last time we spoke.
Rich was a pretty magical friend and was like a brother to me. Our community will miss him and we will work to reorganize and restructure the ISGA so that we can continue the important work that Rich was such a part of.
Although the conventions will never be quite the same, we will find a new way to move forward. I think we will hold Rich in our hearts and in our values as we redefine how we operate. I think that if we can always remember Rich’s gentle and caring ways we will be in good shape.
I am pretty sure that Rich will be watching over us and giving us guidance and support from wherever he is.
It sounds like there will be a celebration of life at some point in the spring. We will let you know more when we hear.
Anyone interested in participating in the ISGA either on the board or in a support role, please reach out to us. We want to hear from you.
Miss you my friend! Rest well!
May we meet again.
Carmen Wakeling
President ISGA Board
on behalf of the Board of Directors
