This yr has been one in all change for Audubon Rockies—as in nature, nothing ever stays the identical. On June 30, 2025, we stated farewell to our beloved pal and colleague, John Kloster-Prew, as he retired and set off on a brand new chapter of life.
John joined Audubon Rockies in 2013 as our very first improvement director earlier than later changing into deputy director. From the very starting, he was recognized for his boundless enthusiasm for birds and conservation, his optimistic power, and his regular management.
For greater than 11 years, John helped increase funds that stored our applications thriving, crafted Rockies’ strategic plans, and constructed lasting relationships in communities throughout the area. However past all of that, he was the one that all the time confirmed up with a smile, able to do no matter was wanted to maneuver our mission ahead.
For therefore many people, John was greater than a colleague—he was, and all the time might be, a pal. His upbeat nature lifted spirits, his laughter crammed lengthy days of journey, and his kindness made everybody really feel seen and valued. Personally, I’ll always remember the numerous hours spent on the highway with John, swapping tales and sharing loads of laughs. He had a present for making work really feel lighter and for serving to us all bear in mind why we do what we do.
Earlier than he left, John shared just a few phrases that seize his coronary heart and spirit:
“Saying goodbye isn’t straightforward, particularly once you’ve had the privilege of working with such a rare group of individuals, united by a shared ardour for conservation and neighborhood. It’s been an honor to work alongside such a proficient, devoted, and provoking staff. Collectively, we’ve weathered challenges, celebrated victories, and stayed true to a imaginative and prescient that places birds, individuals, and the planet on the heart of all the things we do.” – John Kloster-Prew
In his retirement, John plans to journey along with his spouse, Sheila, with whom he lately celebrated their thirty third marriage ceremony anniversary. We all know their adventures will proceed to take them to many lovely locations—hopefully, the place John can see his favourite hen, the Blue-footed Booby—and we couldn’t be happier for them.
All of us at Audubon Rockies will miss John vastly, however we’re enthusiastic about what lies forward for him and Sheila. One factor is definite: wherever he goes, John will proceed to make pals, advocate for birds, and brighten the lives of everybody he meets.
Particular due to Craig Vollmer of Craig Vollmer Photography and Chameleon Photo Booths for sharing his pictures with us.
