Birders,

Those of you who recognize the name of Rich Stallcup will be greatly
saddened to learn that he passed away last night. Rich was one of the
best-known, best-loved, and most respected birders in North America, and was
associated for most of his life with the Point Reyes Bird Observatory (an
organization that I've been a member of since 1970). I am forwarding a
message from Ellie Cohen, President and CEO of PRBO, about his passing.

I met Rich several times in the 1970s, and like most other birders who met
him, I was in awe of his skill as a birder and his accomplishments as a
birder, an educator, and a conservationist. Whether or not you met Rich, you
may be interested in reading the following profile of Rich, written by Don
Roberson as part of his webpage on "Who Was Who in California Birding,
1965-1989":

http://creagrus.home.montereybay.com/CAwhoRS.html

Wayne C. Weber
Delta, BC
contopus at telus.net


****************************************************************************
******************************************

From: Ellie Cohen
Sent: Sunday, December 16, 2012 11:15 AM
To: All PRBO
Subject: very sad news


Hi all-

I am heartbroken and so deeply saddened to have to share this awful news.
Rich Stallcup passed away last night from complications related to leukemia,
with his loving partner Heather and his daughter Willow at his side. This
is a tremendous loss to us all.

He faced his illness with unbelievable courage and an incredibly positive
attitude.

Rich was a hero in conservation. He inspired and taught so many of us about
the beauty and magic of birds and our natural world. He was only a teenager
when he shared a vision of establishing the country's first bird observatory
at Point Reyes almost 48 years ago. He dedicated his entire life to
understanding and protecting birds and the environment. He inspired
thousands of people to see and experience the wonders of nature.

Rich spent every day of his life, even when his body was so weakened by his
illness, getting outside, appreciating nature and sharing with others his
passion for life. He had a unique fire that inspired everyone else to be a
better human being.

I imagine Rich's message to us today would be-- spend time outside, watch
the birds, and replenish your souls with nature!

His family will be planning a memorial for some time in the future. We will
also do something at PRBO to honor and celebrate our dear friend Rich.

Ellie and Melissa