Remembering Martha
Martha Kostuch, well-known within the environmental community as an effective consensus-builder and activist, passed away on April 23.
The RCEN would like to express its deepest condolences to her family and friends. Through this special Remembrance page, we hope to honour Martha's life and allow people who knew her to share their memories with others. Please read the following excerpt from a letter written by Martha before her death, posted below.
---------------------------------------------
Notice of My Death
[...] I believe my environmental advocacy contributed to making Canada's environment a little better than it would have been without my efforts. I liked being an environmental activist. I enjoyed a good argument (as long as it wasn't personal), I liked challenges and I liked making a difference. I also enjoyed getting to know so many people through my environmental activities.
People used to ask me where I got all my energy. I would tell them from nature. The mountains, the trees, the rivers and the wildlife gave me enjoyment and energy. I really was a tree hugger! I loved my walks in the woods and canoeing down rivers.
I don't want people to give money in memory of me. I would like each of you to think about some of the time we spent together; some of the things we did together. Your memories are important.
If you would like to do more than remember me (which I consider important… remembering me, that is), then I would ask you to do something extra to benefit the environment. Something you were not already planning to do or something you were not planning to do this soon. Through the additional actions taken by those who remember me, the environment will continue to benefit.
love,
Martha |
