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Scott Kennedy

Kennedy

Scott Kennedy

Scott Kennedy Obituary

From the Santa Cruz Sentinel:

Scott Kennedy, a two-time former mayor of Santa Cruz who as a founder of the Resource Center for Nonviolence established himself as a pre-eminent voice on peaceful conflict resolution and provided an often controversial but measured voice on the heated issue of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict died Saturday at his home on the Westside. He was 62.

Kennedy spent almost his entire life working to promote social change and help those who were less fortunate, with much of that work done through the center, which he co-founded in 1976. He was a man who would go out of his way to help others, and was stubbornly driven.

Kennedy was known for being passionate, intelligent and at times intense, and many are calling his death a huge loss for the community. Friends and colleagues remember him as someone who had an amazing energy and would go out of his way to help others and who had a sharp sense of humor.

Published by Santa Cruz Sentinel from Nov. 21 to Nov. 26, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Scott Kennedy

155 Entries

Bob Kelly-Thomas (Thomas)

November 30, 2013

Scott, It has been many years since we worked together at the Encounter summer camps at Monte Toyon, in the Methodist Church, traveled in the Middle East and made our pilgrimage to Wadi Duraja, site of Jim's death and Diane's miracle escape. I have carried those times and your friendship in my heart ever since. You were/are a mensch, a boddisatva, a person who lived his beliefs every day with the intention of making the world a better place for all it's citizens. I will treasure your memory forever. Peace. Shalom. Salaam aleikum. Until we meet again, old friend.

Barbara Chatton

July 19, 2012

Kris,

I was so shocked and saddened to read of Scott's death. I have so many wonderful memories of our times together at UCSC, trips to Santa Barbara, visits at our place in Salinas, and of course, our long-ago times in Willow Glen. He gave me so much laughter and so many insights. My heart goes out to you, Kris. Love, Barbara Chatton

Jane Parks-McKay

January 30, 2012

I met Scott over 20 years ago, when, as a college student doing community volunteer work, I had the pleasure of serving on a commission with Scott.
Even though that was a long time ago, I have never forgotten his kindness and his amazing ability to "walk the walk" of peace.

I am very sad to hear of his loss and to his many family and friends, please know I share your loss.

Leslie Hayes

January 28, 2012

Thinking of you still, Kris! Time heals wounds but it does not fill the hole left by the passing of someone so special. Sending my love and prayers still. Love, Leslie Hayes

sami musallam

December 15, 2011

i just learnt that my dear friend scott kennedy has passed away. with great sorrow and grief i want to bid him farewell. i knew scott from his first visit to beirut, lebanon, when he led a deligation to come to see and meet our late chairman arafat of the plo. i was the director of the office of late chairman. since then we have been in contact. i visited him in santa cruze in 1996,was at his home and met family. we met many times in tunis, tunisia and jericho, palestine. he was always supportive, had questions and thought of proposals and made suggestions. his vision was always to serve justice, peace and enhance the political process in the middle east. chairman arafat liked him because he thought the man was sincere, open and was ready to help. his doors were always opened to him whenever he wanted to visit.
i took it for granted that he, namely, scott is always there to call at any tme. but since he has left us i will miss his absence, his talk and what he will suggest. thank you scott for your support for chairman arafat, for the palestinian people and for me. my sinceret condolences for his family, friends and co-workers.

prof. dr. sami musallam
Chairman of the institute for area studies
al quds university
abu dis campus
the governorate of jerusalem
palestinian territory

Donn Baldini

December 13, 2011

Great appreciation for Scott Kennedy's many years of leadership, dedication and serious work. Sincere condolences to his dear wife Kris and their children.
Donna Baldini

Ismail Kharoub

December 12, 2011

A great man, a great role model and an inspiration to all of us, we only spent less than a month together but he helped me spread my word out all over california and raise money for a good cause.
I hope we all live to see the day when all the good work he conducted makes its impact worldwide and i am thankful to have had the honor to meet such a great man.
my respect and condolences to his fanily.

Barbara Riverwoman

December 11, 2011

Scott was such an inspiring presence in our community - the range of his mind and concerns, and the deep dedication with which he lived life, were truly awesome. In the last years I attended some of the small study groups he sponsored and was again impressed with the acuteness of his thinking, as well as his world wide connections. He will be missed!

John and Anna Campbell

December 10, 2011

We knew Scott from his Isla Vista days in the early 70's when he was organizing the Isla Vista Youth Project as a conscientious objector working with our church. At the same time we were working to found the Isla Vista Children's Center. This was in the aftermath of the burning of the bank in protest to the Vietnam war. There was a palpable sense of revolution and danger, excitement and possibility, in the air in those days, and we all worked together with joy and great energy to rebuild the community. He was a good friend and a member of a small intimate meditation/intercessory prayer group that met at our home at 5:00 a.m.
once a week where some absolutely amazing things happened. We cherish our memories of those times, and especially our memories of Scott, along with Peter, Liz, Pat, and the others. We went to his wedding--it seems far too soon to be going to his memorial, but we will be there. Scott lived so intensely, accomplished so much and gave the world so much that his legacy will live on and on. We send our love and condolences to his family and co-workers. John and Anna Campbell, Heather Campbell, and Danae Liechti, Santa Barbara

Kathy Lynch

December 10, 2011

I first met Scott Kennedy when I was a young activist with the San Jose Catholic Worker community around 1980, when we all participated with the Pacific Life Community in a spiritually based resistance to nuclear weapons. I remember sleeping in the Kennedy home when Scott and Kris offered us hospitality as we canvassed Santa Cruz neighborhoods promoting a Nuclear Free Zone. I remember one activist, who I considered to be one of the smartest people I had ever met, commenting on Scott's towering intellectual brilliance, and also commenting that if Scott had chosen to work in the private, for profit sector, he could have become very wealthy. Fortunately, for us in the peace movement, Scott had other, true priorities.
Subsequently, when I worked at the San Jose Peace Center, Scott was always available to our staff and Board as a mentor and tremendous support person. We always looked to the Resource Center for Nonviolence, with its sophistication and success, as an example to which we could aspire. Scott helped make our dream come true: when we decided to purchase a permanent home for the San Jose Peace Center, Scott helped arrange a substantial donation of money through the Eschaton Foundation to buy a former fraternity house at 48 S. 7th Street in downtown San Jose. I few months ago I joined the San Jose Peace Center to celebrate 25 years of its new home; that Peace Center is also part of Scott's legacy.
In the 90's, when I worked at the Pajaro Valley Shelter Services, a shelter and preschool for homeless Latino families in Watsonville, California, Scott supported the establishment of an endowment fund to provide to sustain the agency, by arranging for a sizable donation of money for this fund. PVSS is also part of Scott's legacy.
I will always hold gratitude for Scott's example as a role model, his mentorship and leadership. Thank you so much, Scott!

Tarek El Heneidy

December 4, 2011

Thank you for the good times, thank you for the struggles, thank you for your leadership, and most of all thank you for your friendship. The peace and non-violent community just lost a great organizer and leader.

Denise Dalton

December 3, 2011

May you rest in peace our faithful friend!

jack howe

December 3, 2011

i'll miss scott. i worked for the city in the beach flats in the 90's and i often saw scott walking the flats....listening to it's residents. scott had a great sense of humor ,a ready smile, and a great family. i felt lucky to have known him.

Joel Fischer

December 1, 2011

Hard news that we are powerless to change. Our thoughts are with the Kennedy family, the RCNV & Santa Cruz communities, and all of Scott's friends and colleagues across the USA & world.

This world will miss his sense of purpose, his capacity to get things done, and his laughter.

David Hostetter

November 30, 2011

I was a participant in a 1987 trip to the Middle East led by Scott and Deena Hurwitz. Scott's patience and persistence impressed me then and serve now as an example of how peace-builders should conduct themselves. He will be sorely missed.

Samina Sundas

November 29, 2011

Scott was a wonderful human being and a kind soul. I was told about his sudden death today during a Multifaith event by Rev. Eileen and was shocked. What an amazing example of non violence practice life style. It is a great loss for the peace community and he will be missed. Please let me know if I can be any help to his family during this difficult time. May he rest in peace and may Allah grant courage to his loved ones to bare this loss. Ameen

Samina Sundas
www.amuslimvoice.org

Al Millan

November 29, 2011

Once a friend of Scott's in Willow Glen, through high school, I have respected and admired and followed Scott over these many years. It's difficult to imagine and accept the deep sense of loss for Kristin and their family. I am truly saddened for Kris, their family, and the community... "Keep a fire for the human race, let your prayers go drifting into space, you never know what will be coming down..." Honor and carry the work of peace forward, and commit to express and share openly the love for family and friends every precious day we are here.

Nancy Lima Coronato

November 28, 2011

I met Scott when we were in Kindergarten together and was instantly drawn to him. We continued our friendship through our graduation from Willow Glen High in 1967. From early on it was apparent that Scott had an intrinsic leadership quality so it has not been surprising to see all that he has accomplished during his much too brief life. It was a terrible shock to read of his passing. My thoughts and prayers goe out to Kris and his family. Scott will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Patrick Coy

November 28, 2011

Scott and I have been friends for at least 25 years, going back to the mid-1980s on the National Council of the Fellowship of Reconciliation. His organizing talents were as many as his huge personality. His legacy will long stand in local politics, national peace movement organizations, and international peacebuilding. I often wondered where he found the time and energy, and I am not the first to ask just exactly what couldn't Scott pull off? He had vision, was willing to be daring about what was possible even when others did not yet see the same possibilities, and he did not fear criticism, public or private. In meetings he could deliver sharp and crushing blows to opposing points of view one moment and in the next moment have the entire room laughing (including his opponents!) thanks to his quick and incisive wit. Scott was always principled and would take tough stands when he had to, but he somehow managed to also be humane and generous, for he had a kind and soft heart.

Among other things we shared a love of baseball and of jokes, including good and bad baseball teams and yes, good and bad jokes, too. But amidst all of this there are two things that I most remember and treasure about Scott: His courageous stand on behalf of a peace with justice in the Middle East, and the intentional and faithful ways that he cultivated and maintained our friendship over the years. In this regard he was a paragon of thoughtfulness. I am sure I am only one of many who loved him like the brother he was.

arline ganzler

November 25, 2011

Scott was one of the finest people I have met. He was continually engaged in working for issues he believed in and did it with great intelligence, verve, including all who wanted to serve. He was humorful and energetic and a great story teller. His heart was open and he was very proud of his wonderful family. I believe he lived well and accomplished much. He had patience and persistence. I will miss him.

Mark Levy

November 25, 2011

A great loss to the Santa Cruz community, and the world. Scott's tireless efforts for peace in the Middle East earned my respect and admiration. He has made a difference in the lives of many, and left a lasting legacy of non-violent activism. May his family be comforted in this time of mourning.

Tom Farris

November 25, 2011

A few old memories. I first met Scott in the 7th grade. He was friendly, outgoing and intelligent. He seemed to be involved in everything - sports, student government, social activities and clubs. His leadership qualities were evident at that early age. Large groups of boys would gravitate to him during lunch hours, where Scott would lead the conversation and inevitably direct his comments to first one and then the other of the assembled group. You did not want to be the target of his biting wit. Over the next several years we were friends and I sensed the bite in his wit may have softened a bit, but his leadership qualities flourished and it seemed clear this extraordinary individual would dedicate his life to causes he felt were just. Although I have seen him only a handful of times since graduation from high school, I feel a profound loss at his passing and extend my deepest sympathies to his family. I am proud to have known such a fine man.

Liz Paul and Scott, Boise, 2002.

Liz Paul

November 24, 2011

First I was coaxed into co-facilitating a meeting of People for a Nuclear Free Future (1978), then I was just the one to coordinate an action,and on and on it went. Tomorrow I'll show the great film on nonviolence, A Truth More Powerful, to Occupy Boise activists. Thanks Scott, I am a small part of your living legacy.

Fred Yuengling

November 24, 2011

Though I haven't seen Scott in some time, I had the opportunity and honor of working and playing closely with him for several years in the 70's and 80's, and those experiences will never leave me. He was a truly great man, a real hero. My thoughts and condolences go out especially to his family, and to the wonderful community of friends he gathered around him his entire life.

Monadel Herzallah

November 24, 2011

Our thoughts and prayers with Scott families and friends around the world, his life touched so many, as Palestinian we miss his dedication and his genuine support for all just causes including the just cause of Palestine, he educate many of us to look for peace and justice at the most difficult time to see the other side as a human beings and not enemies . we miss him and we loved him and his family.may he rest in peace .

US Palestinian Community Network-Northern California

Debra McGibbon

November 24, 2011

I first met Scott in Isla Vista, California, where he and Peter Klotz were finishing up their C.O. alternative service stint running the Isla Vista Youth Project. I became part of the original, rag tag group that began the RCNV. Scott's force could be summed up by Ghandi's quote, "Be the change you want to see." He acted upon this belief on a daily basis, both with well known and unknown people. Scott challenged us all to become that change, to never be shy about doing or saying what was fair and true. All the while, he had this tremendous sense of humor about himself and humanity in general. I left the RCNV community to pursue a more traditional life as a Kindergarten teacher, and to later work in mainstream political campaigns, but the lessons I learned from Scott remain a part of me. Safe journey to you Scott, and to Kris, may the love of God and those around you hold you and keep you in the days ahead.

Irene van der Zande

November 23, 2011

Ed, Chantal, Arend, and I all send our condolences to Kris and all of Scott's family and friends. A sad loss to our community, to the world, and most of all to Scott's loved ones.

Mubarak Awad

November 23, 2011

My thoughts and prayers with Scott families and friends around the world, his life touched so many, as Palestinian we miss his faith in humanity and peace, he educate many of us to look for peace at the most difficult time to see the other side as a human beings and not enemies . we miss him and we loved him and his family.

November 23, 2011

Cheryll and I send our deepest sympathy and loving memories at the sad loss of a friend and warrior for humanity. In our brief connection with Scott and his work, he made an indelible mark on our lives. Blessings to Chris and the Kennedy family.

Dale and Cheryll Kinsley, Lummi Island, WA

Ann Contos

November 23, 2011

Words can't express the gratitude I have of Scott's unwavering support of our family during the most difficult time of our lives. Despite the backlash you were always there for us. This loss is a terrible shock and the grief is overwhelming. May Scott's life be an example to the rest of us of a life well-lived and may we continue to stand with Scott as he stood with us time after time against mans inhumanity to man. It was a privileged to have known this great wonderful man. If there is anything I can do at all to support his family during their most difficult time as he supported mine, please, do not hesitate to ask. We love you Scott!

Dia Nicolatos

November 23, 2011

What a tremendous loss for the whole world. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Alan Pagano

November 23, 2011

My deepest sympathies and condolences to Kris and the Kennedy family. Scott was always supportive of the mission of public education and specifically the efforts of Santa Cruz City Schools to realize that mission and its goals.

Chai

November 22, 2011

Scott was a rare individual. My most sincere condoleneces to his family and friends.

"May we and Israel and Palenstine and the whole world live in peace. May peace grow in each of us, and in the soil of Israel and Palestine, and spread to cover the earth with its blossoms."

November 22, 2011

We knew Scott in Santa Cruz, in Nevada, in the Middle East. What a formidable energy for peace, truth, and openness was Scott. He was a great mentor in the politics of nonviolence for us, but more importantly, he was so personally. When we would depart from an encounter with Scott, we always left feeling better about ourselves, and better about the future. In truth, he was awful about returning emails (or in the early days, letters), but then out of the blue he'd called to see how we were doing. We nod towards Scott's memory with deep respect, and in deep respect for all those who have known him. For, to have known Scott is to have been moved by him in a direction that may eventually bring us all together. A great mensch, as we say in the old country.

Scott a center of much thought and compassion,
a human work of years towards kind growth
a storehouse of genius.
unto you we tip our hats and smile at our encounter
and our embrace. Bless you, brother.

Ray Johnson (New Mexico)
Fred Landau (Nevada)

Fred Landau

November 22, 2011

Faye Straus

November 22, 2011

I am saddened to learn of Scott's passing. I had the privilege of hearing him speak and was so impressed how he embodied peace and non-violence in how he expressed himself and especially in dealing with challenging people. May his memory be for a blessing.

David Hartsough

November 22, 2011

Scott was a blessing to the whole human family. Scott's life long commitment to work for nonviolence and justice and peace in Santa Cruz, in the Middle East and around the world has helped make the world a much safer place for all of us and our children and grandchildren. Scott, may the seeds of nonviolence you have planted sprout and grow in all of us.
Millions of us mourn your loss and send our love and deep appreciation for your life.

Norma Ellis

November 22, 2011

He was a beacon of light in a world where peace is somewhat aloof in our world! He will be missed, especially his humor and wit! My thoughts and prayers are with his family especially this holiday season!

Rebecca Hutchinson

November 22, 2011

Scott was always so passionate and spirited. I really enjoyed the conversations we had and always appreciated his input and opinions. He was an inspirational figure in my life and he will be missed. My thoughts go out to Kris, Megan, Ben, and Peter.

Terry Teitelbaum

November 22, 2011

I'd like to express deepest condolences to Scott's family and community. He has been such a powerful force for nonviolent change and social justice - locally and internationally - as well as an influence on me personally. His humor, strength, commitment, and intelligence will be missed.

Phil Freshman

November 22, 2011

Even though I hadn't seen Scott in nearly 40 years, this news came as a thunderclap.

I spent a fair amount of time with Scott and Kris in 1969 and 1970. One day near the end of 1969, he got it into his head that we should go to Altamont and see the Stones. He kept insisting, finally crumbling my cranky resistance with a typically merry smile and saying, “You know you're going to regret it for the rest of your life if you don't go.” I think that would have been true. He, Kris, and I drove there and spent the night sitting up on that hillside in the swirling dirt and chill, then the whole next endless day watching the constantly interrupted concert from afar. We, like most people there, had no idea about the mayhem that was under way.

One bright Sunday morning we drove to Berkeley to hear his brother-in-law, Bishop Pike, speak in a small church near the Cal campus. A few months later, Pike died after getting lost, with Diane, in the Judean Desert. Soon afterward, we went to hear Diane speak about the experience in a college gym in San Jose. Her composure, and Scott's, in the wake of that nightmare were beyond remarkable to me.

Scott once loaned me his car, for several days, and I was all in a sweat to get it back to him on time. When I did, it was clear that the deadline had been a casual one, and that I might have kept it longer if I'd needed to. I was dumbstruck by his easygoing trust.

Reliably, Scott wore smile in his eyes that I found calming; it was something i needed. I recall, too, that he had a way of saying the right thing at the right moment, emphatically but simply.

My heart goes out to Kris across the years, and to their children and Diane.

Cheryl Longinotti

November 22, 2011

I think I've only seen Scott 3 or 4 times since high school but I will always remember his wit. His passing motivates me all the more to work for healing and constructive conflict.

Zachary Sklar

November 22, 2011

Rest now, Scott, after a life spent doing the best possible work--work for peace. Thanks for everything you did to save this earth and its people.

November 22, 2011

On behalf of the Friends of Tent of Nations North America, and the Nassar family, we express our sympathy for the Kennedy family, and acknowledge the tremendous loss his death is to those in the peace and justice community. He will be greatly missed, but know his legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of those many who knew and loved him. Bill Plitt, Arlington, Virginia

Rae Abileah

November 22, 2011

Scott was an inspiration to me as a young activist working for nonviolent social transformation. All of us at CODEPINK we wish to send our condolences to Scott's family and loved ones. May Scott's work and spirit live on in our creative resistance and movement building.

Stanislav Kolot

November 22, 2011

Alushta City Council

Our condolences to Scott's family and friends.
Scott Kennedy will be long remembered by governance and inhabitants of Alushta City as one who has done much for the development of friendly and good-neighborly relations between our sister cities.

Sincerely
Mayor of Alushta
Stanislav Kolot

Rebecca Irelan

November 22, 2011

Kris, Peter, Ben and Megan,
Scott was one of the few in this world who was already living what I was preaching. He's been a guiding light to me ever since I was privileged to be his pastor for a short while. I will cherish the stole he brought back from the West Bank for me. I know he had intellectual qualms with many aspects of the Christian faith, but he made Jesus more real for me. He fought the fight, he ran the race, he kept the faith. Now he joins the communion of saints.
And we are left to keep the light burning. God bless you all.

Ted Levine

November 21, 2011

I never actually met him but he meant a lot to me and it's sad that he is with us no more to share his life work.He definitely touched me in his own way

Paul Hubers

November 21, 2011

As one of the first English-language nonviolence writers concerning the Eastern Mediterranean, Scott opened the way for many others, students and colleagues, activists and academics -- Future students may well see him as one of the "lights" at the end of a long tunnel of history, a tunnel leading away from oil-energy war strategies.

Tomas Alejo

November 21, 2011

Santa Cruz just lost one of it's beloved community members. Although I knew him for almost a decade, in this last year I was fortunate to work with him closer and appreciated his friendship. You will be missed.

November 21, 2011

So many beautiful tributes are being written for Mr. Kennedy. He was a sacrificial giver of his talents, time, and testimony. He gave so much, and without fanfare. In this world of strife and violence he demonstrated that strength and love come through peace. He had mountains to climb and mountains to move....which he did. Let us honor this truly good man. We will never forget the lessons he taught.

Rod Quartararo

November 21, 2011

Whether it was speaking up for what was right or cheering on his kids down at Little League, Scott did not waste his life or his presence.

Kim Tuson

November 21, 2011

Dear Kennedy Family,
Our community is grieving the loss of a beloved peace activitist, leader, mentor, friend, husband and father. Scott's work, love and friendship will sustain us. Peace and love to you, the community and world.

Sama Abu Ayyash

November 21, 2011

Though we just met, I know he is a very committed and passionate man about justice and he will be missed dearly by all who crossed paths with him and knew him. Allah yirhamak!

Margaret Metzinger

November 21, 2011

So Sad! Such a loss!

Marvena Twigg

November 21, 2011

On behalf of the founder, the staff and the board of the National Youth Advocate Program, I express our heartfelt sympathy to Scott's family, friends and colleagues. Scott's measured and unassuming ways helped us solve many a difficult problem throughout the years. He was always quick to share a smile and express appreciation for even the smallest of considerations. He enriched us personally and professionally. He will be sadly and deeply missed. We are grateful for the gift of his life.

Alexander Burke

November 21, 2011

In meetings with Scott he always put me at ease and made me feel good about whatever it was we were trying to accomplish. He will be greatly missed.

David Paine

November 21, 2011

My thoughts are with Kris and family during this sad time. Scott was such a thoughtful and brave activist, whether dealing with issues in Beach Flats or the Middle East. His leadership really made a difference and it is up to us to carry on his work.

Steve Pleich

November 21, 2011

I did not know Scott as well as I would have liked and in this my life will always be less full. But I was inspired by his commitment to peace and his grace of spirit; in this, my life will forever be the fuller.

Michael Hernandez

November 21, 2011

Hernmano, Via Con Dios....

kol kollarson

November 21, 2011

As a former Santa Cruz redwoods dweller, who lived rough as the English say, then moved into SC with a double digit dog family in a van just as the Major took office in 94, this one knows first hand of the compassionate influence he exerted in governance, in particular shaping the approach & training of law enforcement toward those living on society's fringes. Instituting a Citizen Police Review was a needed & necessary function of addressing & equitably resolving issues arising between all concerned individuals. It is & will be greatly missed , like the man who had the deep felt belief to make this mortal coil a better place to spend & enrich our existence. In changing channels, this one believes he has Now reached the place of non conflict, a blissful & harmonious blend into One Void. His work being done, it's now in the ever after, time to, as Kurt Vonnegut expressed, fart around.

Dennis Collins

November 21, 2011

Scott was truly a special person. A man of vision, intellect, and courage with an indomitable spirit and a wonderful sense of humor. Scott was an inspiration to everyone who had the good fortune to work with him.
My heartfelt condolences to his wonderful wife Kris, the entire Kennedy family, and the RCNV community. The thoughts and prayers of all those whose lives were touched by Scott are with you during this difficult time.

November 21, 2011

Kris: Our sympathy to you and your family. We last saw Scott when he stopped in Newman Grove for Aunt Stella's funeral. He will be missed by all who knew him. Sincerely, Bev Jess and family.

Grant Fellersen

November 21, 2011

I am so sorry to hear about Scott's sudden death. As a friend from the past I can only say that Scott and Kris made a huge difference in my life when it was really needed. It was always fun to read about Scott and his work. My sincere condolences to the Kennedy family.

November 21, 2011

We will miss him. Scott was one of few oversea's colleagues who really knew how to help; meeting him - though seldom - was always a warm and rich experience.

Gush Shalom
Uri Avnery
Beate Zilversmidt
Adam Keller

Kimlin McDaniel Keith

November 21, 2011

I am one of the many who benefitted so much from Scott's mentorship and leading by example. I remember a discussion about sainthood we had, perhaps 30 years ago, and his version was that we do what we do and only after we are gone is there any clarity about our impact. I know Scott's life work will reverberate for a long time.

I also send my love and thanks to Kris, Peter, Ben, and Megan who have always made Scott's work possible.

Jack Crawford

November 21, 2011

I had the honor of meeting Scott many times through Music Now and personally. He was always friendly and personable with me. He always had great information for me when I needed it. My condolences to his family especially during this holiday season.

Music Now

Dan Onorato

November 21, 2011

Scott was the leader of an Interfaith Peace Builders Project delegation of 13 people to Israel-Palestine that I was a part of in 2005. That direct exposure to the realities of the Israeli occupation of Palestinian lands has had a powerful and abiding impact on me. I went on that trip partly because I knew Scott was leading it, and one of the benefits of the trip was getting to know Scott much better. I depended on and trusted Scott's perspective and knowledge about the conflict and I deeply appreciated his unswerving commitment to a just peace. Through him I was able to bring Israeli and Palestinian speakers to my community in Modesto, CA. My wife and I are deeply saddened at his sudden death, and we send our love to his wife Kris and their family. The Israelis honor those who helped save Jews in the Holocaust. When the Palestinians finally gain their own independent state, I think Scott will be high on their list of those whose tireless commitment to nonviolent conflict resolution helped them achieve that goal. The Israeli peace movement will do likewise. We have lost a rare soul. But his memory and his spirit will help keep me working for the justice and peace he so generously spent his life working for.

Angelica Villasenor Ray Higginbotham

November 21, 2011

Dear Kris and Family,
We are so sorry for your loss. We will miss Scott's dedication and commitment to social justice. We will miss his smile.

Lorraine LeBlanc

November 21, 2011

Just 10 days ago Scott and I exchanged emails regarding the production of the book of Occupation Art! I am profoundly grateful to have met and traveled with and learned from Scott a few years ago. His presence and passion will be dearly missed. My most sincere condolences to his family.

John and Pat Bakalian

November 21, 2011

Our deepest condolances to you Kris, Megan, Ben and Peter. Scott was a true individual, one that gave much more than he received. We will all miss him, and the world has lost a peacemaker and dear friend. With our love. Our thoughts are with you.

Craig Simpson

November 21, 2011

Although I haven't seen Scott in many years, I always remember the welcome he and his family gave to me and the powerful work for nonviolence his family and the resource center had done. Thank you Scott, you will be missed.

Rami Natsheh

November 21, 2011

Scott's death is a big loss to his family, friend community and the humanity, Scott had a very positive impact in many lives, including me, when first came to the US and lived in his house with his lovely family for half a year. I learned a lot during my time with him, I made great connections in the US and managed with his help to get a scholarship and finish my graduate school. He visited my Home in Palestine several times, he was drinking tea there 15 days ago. Scott,, wards never enough to describe a amazing you were, wards can't describe our feelings. Scott you will never die in our hearts. Love

Maggie Ivy

November 21, 2011

What a fine man. Scott devoted his life to carrying out his deepest principles in the world and at home. I feel fortunate to have known him and been able to work with him on a couple of community projects. We will mourn the loss of his continued contributions. I will miss his raucous laughter and incredible quick wit. His way of recounting ironic stories with his own mischievous and brilliant observations. It is rare to meet such a genuine human being. I will remember fondly a breakfast at the SC Diner last year when I asked Scott to tell me the story of what led him to his life's work. I was struck by his modesty, his passion and his resolve for his path in life. Peace and comfort to Scott and his loved ones.

rick hobbs

November 21, 2011

My deepest condolences to Kris and his family, Peter and the rest of the RCNV staff and friends. It was a privilege to know Scott and to be inspired by his commitment to social change from a spiritual perspective. His positive energy continues to flourish in the hearts and actions of his friends and community.

Tim Goncharoff

November 21, 2011

May Scott's selfless and tireless example inspire us all. You will be sorely missed, Scott.

Mary Litell

November 21, 2011

With Gratitude for Scott's life and vitality — truly light and healing for our world today. With gratitude also to you, Scott's family and friends, who helped shape the peacemaker that he became.

Ray Doherty

November 21, 2011

The world has lost a great advocate for human rights, freedom and dignity. His contributions in helping us understand the complexities of the Middle East conflict were remarkable. Scott has left this world much too soon and he will be sorely missed.

Ray Doherty

November 21, 2011

Scott was a tenacious fighter for human rights and I greatly admire his contributions in promoting peace in the Middle East. He was a tireless advocate for Palestinian statehood, freedom and dignity. He will be missed.
My sincerest condolences go out to his friends and family.

Diane Kennedy Pike

November 21, 2011

My heart is broken, but I am so proud of who Scott was and the enormous contribution he made through his commitment to nonviolence and justice. His integrity was uncompromised and his caring deep and heart-felt. I am so grateful for the gift of his life

Sue Terence

November 21, 2011

May all the hundreds of people who were inspired by Scott's willingness to act on his beliefs do something extra this week to act on theirs, in honor of Scott.

Tom Mounts

November 21, 2011

Kris and family...I have always considered Scott a friend, a hero, and a mentor. His life was a great example of how to lead by doing what your principles tell you to do. I am in a state of shock, but praying for all of you, and praying a prayer of thanks for having known Scott. Peace!

Michel Awad

November 21, 2011

My condolences to Scott's family, and to his colleagues , His commitment to nonviolence and peace and justice in Palestine was inspiring , may god bless his soul .
Michel Awad , Siraj Center , Palestine

George Rishmawi

November 21, 2011

This is really heartbreaking news. I knew Scott since 1995 when he came to Beit Sahour to award our center the 1995 Pfeffer Peace Prize by the Fellowship of Reconciliation. His memory will remain in the hearts and minds of all those who worked with him and shared good moments with him. The good ones are always missed.
On behalf of the Palestinian Centre for Rapprochement between People in Beit Sahour, Palestine, express deep condolences to Scott's family, friends and workmates.

May his soul rest in peace

Cathy Murphy-Miles

November 21, 2011

Dear Kennedy Family,
Thank you for sharing Scott with our local and world community for all these years... his dedication, vision, and wonderful contributions to social justice and nonviolence will continue to live on. He has touched so very many lives and truly has made this world a better place. I feel so lucky to have known him.
Love to you all...

Igor Khomyakov

November 21, 2011

Dear Kris and Family, take my condolences! For us Scott is a wounderful friend and great charecter!
He's always in the heart and dreams...

Donna Wallach

November 20, 2011

I met Scott in Cyprus in August 2008. He was there to volunteer as land team for the first Free Gaza Movement boats - preparing for the first break the siege voyage from Cyprus to Gaza. Scott worked tirelessly, driving from Lefkosia to Larnaca and back at all hours of the day and night bringing people from the airport to the University where we were staying, waiting for the boats to arrive to Cyprus. The weather was hot and humid all the time, he wasn't getting any rest, yet he never complained and was always ready and willing to do whatever was asked of him. His untimely death is a great loss for all of us throughout the world, those who knew him and those who didn't; he did powerful work.

Andy Griggs

November 20, 2011

Dear Kris, family and friends,
It is with great sorrow that I read of Scott's passing. My thoughts are with you as you mourn. He will be missed, but not forgotten. May his spirit live on in all of us.

Johanna Silverthorne

November 20, 2011

Scott, you changed my life and my view of what's possible in the world. Thank you for your leadership, your kindness, your strength of character, your humor and your honesty. You are missed terribly.

Claire Gorfinkel

November 20, 2011

Dear Kris and family,
My heartfelt condolences to you on Scott's untimely death. I have followed his work at the Resource Center over the years, and I am so glad we got to see each other at the celebration for Rev. Lawson a few years ago. He will be missed.

Dominic Maze

November 20, 2011

I am so very, very sorry and saddened to hear this news. Ben and Pete, your family is in my thoughts and prayers. I met your father only a couple of times but it was easy to see where you two and Megan got your big hearts and friendly, no-nonsense attitude. Reading these comments, I'm struck by what an enormous, and positive, impact your father had on so many people. I am thinking of all of you.

Marilyn Lucier

November 20, 2011

Dear Kris and family, I will be forever grateful for Scott's and your commitment to nonviolence and to seeking peace in Israel and Palestine, especially. I've learned much from Scott's work and from the extraordinary people he met and invited to speak here. I know love of family was always at the core of that commitment.