Sanford Komito

Condolences to family of Sandy Komito. I shared many hours with him during trips to Attu, playing spades or bridge when not out going after birds, and sleeping on the upper bunk above his in a small concrete room. Sandy was always smiling, always happy to be there around us, always joking around. What a great sense of humor he had! Can't remember a single negative about the man. What a mensch! Glad he lived a long, fulfilling life, yet he will be missed.

God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Sandy is world famous due to the Big Year book and movie. I met Sandy twice, once at a Texas Ornithological Society meeting and once at Dan Jones' 2014 rare collared plover in Hargill, TX (new ABA bird for Sandy) . Sandy was very modest and friendly both times. I often think of Sandy when I sit at the bench he donated (with plaque) by the cathedral oaks at Sabine Woods (SE Texas). What a legend!

It was an honor to bird with him when he came to Texas for a Texas Ornithological Society Conference. He was a delightful and kind man and my prayers are with his family, all that loved him and all those he loved.

In 2011 I saw the movie The Big Year, then read the book of the same title, and then at the age of 51 became a birder and embarked on my own Big Year. From the outset, Sandy was my inspiration and throughout the year was there with tips and advice. He sent me his second book which I read on every airplane trip and that pushed me even further into my Big Year. We had remained friends over the years and in 2023 I had the honor of having him as my first guest on The Big Year Podcast. His Big Year accomplishments in the time before rare bird alerts and social media were instantaneous were beyond compare to the high numbers birders post these days. Imagine what he could have done in the era of the internet and social media. He may be gone but birders the world over owe him a debt of gratitude for showing us the way.

There are birders that inspire one despite never having met them. RIP Sandy and thanks.

We're truly sorry to hear of Sandy's passing. He took me "under his wing" when we met at High Island, TX many years ago. He impressed on me that no matter how many times I see "Just another cardinal" to be awed by each one because they are all unique in their own way. There is always something new to see. We remained in touch over all these years and he will be missed; truly a great guy. Fly high!

Condolences to Ellyn and family. Getting to bird with your dad was a major highlight! He was a gentleman and a true delight. May he fly with the birds...

I was fortunate enough to move to Hunter's Run in 2007, where Sandy lived in Florida. He led many bird walks, carrying his scope and sharing stories and information. He was passionate about birding, and passed his enthusiasm on to whoever was in the group, especially children. He mostly took us to Wakodahatchee and Green Cay to observe birds. I learned so much from him and am forever grateful. May his memory be for a blessing.

Dear Ellyn and family. My deepest condolences on the passing of your father and grandfather. With much love, Regina Cioffi and family.