It's interesting how many people spoke about where they were when they first met Joe—it was memorable, like where we were when we heard JFK was shot. But it was important, for all the words used to describe Joe—Gracious, diplomatic, encouraging, thoughtful, helpful, humorous, kind, enthusiastic, teacher, generous, supportive, impactful, action-oriented (Last Chance fire, Bear Creek Brambling), constructive, knowledgeable, unifier.
Of all the heartwarming accolades given to Joe Roller, one is obvious as an ingredient in our appreciation—Joe's Encouragement. Whatever any of us were doing, writing, or questioning, after Joe's response we felt encouraged. He appreciated us. Feeling warmed and respected, we continued with a bit more enthusiasm.
A second attribute is less obvious, but equally important for Joe's impact—his nominations. Joe was always on the lookout to thank people. When he approached his first convention as a Director of Colorado Field Ornithologists, he heard a last-minute appeal to honor people for awards. Seeing a need to make sure we did provide deserved recognition, Joe developed today's CFO nomination procedures.
Joe's searching for unutilized skills led to recruiting people to accept additional tasks. Joe recruited me for involvement with Bird Conservancy at a time when my work forced me to be in Colorado only on weekends. "No matter," Joe said. "You'll make it work." True. I retired, feeling more fulfillment as a volunteer.
Did Joe refer you, like he did me, to a person, meeting, or field trip to get you started? Did he point out how important your skills would be in a leadership position? If you are one of the special people who received an award, it's likely that it was Joe who suggested and documented it.
The best tribute we all can give to Joe Roller is to continue bettering our world by asking ourselves every day, "How would Joe Roller approach this?"
Larry Modesitt, Arvada
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