It is with heavy hearts this morning that the Wilderness Committee staff and board announce the sudden passing of our colleague — and friend — John Patrick “JP” LeFrank. 

For the past 17 years, JP has been a treasured member of our staff and for years before that a dedicated supporter and volunteer. From behind a camera, in front of a printer or next to a shipping table, JP’s wit and sarcasm was matched only by his hard work and get ‘er done attitude. His hard edges surrounded the biggest heart, and it’s this hidden softie we’ll miss the most. On his days off, JP could be found on the greens of golf courses near and far and sipping margaritas on the beaches of Yelapa, Mexico. 

The hole in our hearts today is as big as JP’s presence when anyone arrived at our Vancouver office. He’s been a fixture of our organization for decades, always welcoming new staff and board heartily and wishing us well on our way out the door. We’ll miss him dearly.

We ask for your patience as his friends and family here at work and across the world process this news.