John P. Powelson

Judy and family,
I am sorry to hear of your father's passing. I've enjoyed reading his articles in The Quaker Economist, and I am grateful for the hospitality he and your mother extended during my visit to Boulder so many years ago.

I am proud to be a former student of Jack's at the University of Colorado, and a colleague afterward. I remember well when Jack and Robin were our guests in Mexico City, when Jack came down to participate in a series of economics conferences we were holding. His contributions to the books that came out of those conferences were standouts, as were all of Jack's many writings. (I'm trying to locate again my favorite of his articles, one that I have cited many times, on the cost of desconfianza...

Dear Robin and Family,

I was one of the many graduate students that journeyed to Dr. Powelson's home in the foothills for a seminar on economic development. And like many, I could not help but be impressed with his deep-seated passion to improve the lives of others. Although I had other interests at the time and a wife in graduate school, I nearly followed his advice to work in the Phillipines for the IMF following obtaining my M.A. Yes, he was inspiring. And I will continue...

Dear Robin and Family~

It was with such sorrow that I just read today, May 31st, of Johns passing. To me he was all the was Boulder. I recall, with great fondness and admiration, the times that he would lead folk dances! He just loved it! The twinkle in his eyes would light up the room.
Whenever I was searching for a wise view on some matter of the day, I knew that I'd get it straight, passionate and honestly, from John.
Also, his link to my parents was always...

I loved engaging Jack. It was SUCH good sport. That is what life is all about! Love to Robin and all. And a moment of silence.
That's pretty good from a person as mouthy as me.

Jack was a friend and a Friend. Jack always held his beliefs firmly and with honor -- though not always with brevity. His smile was an all-encompassing one that touched upon his eyes, mouth, and body. He could get angry -- very angry -- but one always had the feeling that he could keep the anger directed at the action or idea rather than the person. I will miss him.

Jack was one of my first friends in Boulder -- a wonderful friend who built a house on the hill just above ours. Our kids played together, and Sylvia and I enjoyed warm hospitality from Jack and Robin. I remember many discussions over the years about Quaker concerns. I deeply appreciate his friendship, hospitality, and wisdom.

As a member of the World Learning community, I want to express my gratitude for Jack's commitment to our/his organization and to the values upon which it is based. He was a good man, and always engaging. I can imagine that his legacy continues in his children and all others he has come in contact with over the years.

Polly and I have always enjoyed the special family occasions with Jack and her cousin Robin - my earliest memories involve canoe trips. Most recently, we shared a visit to Tom Todd's sudio in Rhode Island. Jack will be missed. He was one of a kind.

George and Polly (Dover, DE)