John began working with Executive Magazine in 2007, first as a journalist and then later earning his way into the editor’s chair, before amicably departing his post to pursue further career interests in 2009. In his time here John was a standard bearer for professionalism, integrity and quality, imbuing the office with a sense of kinship through his intense loyalty to his colleagues and his dedication to his work.
Many were the nights when the blistering hours of production would stretch into the morning, and as we closed that next month’s issue and walked wearily out of the office John would inevitably find a smile to greet the morning sun. Rare are those who one can count on so thoroughly that they seem among the forces of nature, so devoid of excuses and frailties. Now, some two years since John left Executive, his indelible mark on the organization remains, as do the friendships that were forged.
Accompanying his professional prowess was a rugged outdoorsman, a man of intellect, easy charm and empathy, a husband dedicated to his amazing wife Irina — whose passport-sized photo John would have always near his hand whenever he wrote — and an adoring father to their newborn baby boy, Winston.
It is with profound sadness that we received the tragic news that our dear friend, who had a contagious passion for climbing, had died in an accident in the mountains. Our thoughts, hearts and prayers are with his family and everyone that had the privilege of knowing this exceptional human being.
John, may you rest in peace.
