I remember Marshall's kindness and steadfastness but most of all his smile. It was so welcoming and always made me feel a part of the Shelburne Farms community. I’ve been in California for almost 15 years now and still feel such a deep connection to Vermont and especially Shelburne Farms. This was intensified when my husband (Steve Beckendorf) and I were invited to the Stewardship Reception last June. Aware of Project Drawdown’s aims we saw in action actual efforts being made to mitigate the climate crisis from solar power to biochar, so much of which was attributed to Marshall’s vision.

And then, in July, I ran in to a new neighbor across our street in the Berkeley Hills and with a few short sentences discovered that she had worked at the Farm! Vera and I shared memories and stories - both of us with fondness and sparkles in our eyes at this serendipitous meeting. For a moment, Vermont felt closer . . .

And then, both of us shared the sadness in August at Marshall’s passing.

Please know there is a little piece of Vermont here in Northern California, in the hills filled with trees and for those of us who hold in our hearts that piece of heaven off Harbor Road and the family and folks who are working so hard to make our world a better place.
Anne Pardee
Vermont Resident 2000-2009