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Message:
Meeting Brain Ward has changed my life in many ways. First, he offered me an opportunity to be a foundation member of the ADPC and contribute to the development of a regional information centre and a library on disaster management. Second, he shared with me his wisdom on many things about life, cross-cultural issues and working in a multi-cultural environment. This has helped me tremendously to live in Australia, which is moving slowly into a polycultural society from its colonial past. Third, he taught me the need to get back to basics in work related matters. I still practice this principle in my current work environment. The most striking thing about Brian is his ability to capture the mind of diverse people from all walks of life and cultures. He always cared for his work mates and other stakeholders. Our last contact took place in 2003 when he requested me to represent the ADPC at Bob Sutherland’s funeral in Perth where I currently live. Bob was a resource person for ADPC’s early training programs but Brain remembered Bob’s contribution to the ADPC. When I actioned on Brian’s last request, I never thought of missing his funeral. However, the memories of a great boss and friend, and my time at ADPC will remain until the last breath of my life.
Sunil Govinnage, Institute of Sustainability and Technology Policy, Murdoch University, Australia
Message:
It is with great sadness that we have lost my godfather, a great friend and my lifetime supporter. I can see how he touched the lives of many colleagues and friends and I would like to thank him for being an anchor in my life. Thank you for supporting me both with your presence, your surprise visits and always from a far. I thank you for giving me the true spirit of adventure, which started with your postcards from exotic places with news of day to day life which sounded so different from a life in London. You really opened my eyes when taking me around your project in Hong Kong as a 10 year old - I think it changed my whole view of life and while I'm sure you showed me only what a child should see it was an experience that has made my outlook on life positive and enthusiastic. The creche with all the little children running around who seemed so happy will always stay in my memory, the best food in town cooked by a family heating water with a home made filament opened my eyes to a different world. I also thank you for all your stories from all over the world which gave me the wish to discover Asia and Africa - which thanks to your encouragement I did at the very first opportunity and will continue to do so. We will really miss you - you will be always in our thoughts.
Lisa and Daniel Ross-Magenty Blaettler , , Switzlerland
Message:
Lives of great man all remind us
We can make our lives sublime,
And, departing, leave behind us
Footprints on the sands of time.
...... H W L ......
You are the one of my ideal gentleman,
You will always in our mind EverAfter. - NS -
Many waters cannot quench love, neither
can the floods drown it. .... SS, VIII ....
******* Rest in Peace *******
Noramon, Sittabut, ADPC, Thailand
Message:
I was very sad at learning of th passing-away of Col Brian Ward, the Founder and Director Emeritus of the Center. The untimely demise of Col. Brian Ward was truly a big loss to the Center as well as to the cause of disaster risk reduction. I would like to express and convey, through you, my profound condolences adn sympathy to the bereaved family.
Nguyen Quoc Khanh, Embassy of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, Bangkok, Thailand
Message:
With such great loss a vacuum will remain.We trully miss him too.
Alifereti Naioko, SOPAC, Fiji
Message:
Our deep condolence to the family of Col Brian Ward
Eduardo da Costa, Oxfam GB, Timor Leste
Message:
It is very sad to hear that Col. Ward passed away. I had a change to work at ADPC since 1986-1991 (for 5 years on training). He was a very nice, kind and gentle person.
I will miss you badly and you are always in my mind.
nualchan (Lek), SCE/AIT, Bangkok, Thailand
Message:
I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing away of Brian Ward. I remember with considerable fondness my first meeting with him when I visited ADPC for the first time as a resource person for the Seismic and Cyclone Hazard Mitigation training course. Brian was then the director of ADPC. He had established a remarkable institution – the first of its kind -- and under his leadership and guidance the ADPC grew from strength to strength. The Centre’s work led to a lot of initiatives and awareness raising in the area of disaster reduction through out Asia during the International Decade for Natural Disaster Reduction (IDNDR).
Passing away of Brian marks the end of an era in disaster management. Most appropriate tribute to him would be if we continue to nurture the legacy he has left behind and renew our efforts towards disaster reduction with even greater vigour.
I express my heartfelt condolences to ADPC and Brian’s family and friends.
Prof. A. S. Arya, Professor Emeritus, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee and Advisor to United Nations Development Programme, India
Message:
Our deep condolences to Col Brian Ward's family.
Community Development of Bethesda\'s Hospital, , Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Message:
Our deep condolences to the family of Col Brian Ward. He's a great loss to all of us.
National Disaster Coordinating Council, Office of Civil Defense, Philippines
Message:
I wish to express my heartfelt condolences to the passing away of Col. Brian Ward. I have known him for more than 10 years. May his soul rest in peace.
Sincerely
Tawatchai Tingsanchali
Tawatchai Tingsanchali, School of Civil Engineering, Asian Institute of Technology, Thailand
Message:
The news has just reached us of the recent death of Brian Ward and I just wanted to pass on my personal condolences and those of the other members of staff at SOPAC who may have had the pleasure of meeting or working with Brian. I first met Brian when he came to Melbourne in 1991 and then on many occasions when I worked in Asia on behalf of ADPC. He really was a giant in our industry and a person of great vision and commitment who will be sadly missed.
Please accept our belated condolences and our thoughts are with you all at this sad time.
Alan Mearns, SOPAC, Fiji
Message:
What a tremendous loss to all of us and to the broader international community. We were so fortunate to have had him for a friend and colleague and I will treasure the wealth of wisdom and savvy that he gave to us.
Joanne Burke, ,
Message:
We at Kenya Emergency Rescue Operations have received the sad news of Col Brian Ward with shock! Though we did not know him personally but we know ADPC,and we have just learnt from you that he was the founding father. We therefore take this opportunity to convey our condolences to the family,relatives,friends all the ADPC staff and other adpc subscribers worldwide.Our message to all, is carry on with the work the Late Col.Brian Ward left,to enhance disaster risk reduction for a safer world.May God rest his soul in eternal peace!
Mr JOSEPH K. MISOI, Secretary General, Kenya Emergency Rescue Operations, Kenya
Message:
I am sad to hear that Col. Brian passed away. He is such a professional and nice man that he is still fresh in my memory. My Condolence. I believe ADPC has been enriched by Col. Brian and your dedicated commitment and contribution, and it will continue its prosperity under your leadership.
Mr Tian Feng, Friend and former ADPC Staff, New Zealand
Message:
We would like to express our deep condolence for the losing Col. Brian Ward who have been for a long time as the friend and colleague of us. Please convey our deep condolence and fond memory to the close relative of Col. Brian Ward. Moreover, please give our sorrow and memory too to Dr. Suvit for the great loss of ADPC as well as the disaster community in the region.
Dr. Wang Zhenyao, Director General; Mr. Zou Ming, Deputy Director General; Dr. Zheng Yuanchang, Director; Department of Disaster and Social Relief, Ministry of Civil Affairs, P.R. China
Message:
Members and officers of the Masyarakat Penanggulangan Bencana Indonesia (MPBI), or Indonesian Society for Disaster Management, were indeed saddened by the passing away of our teacher and friend, Col. Brian Ward. Through his tremendous dedication and passion he prepared the ground for disaster management in the Region. During a regular meeting, held in Jakarta on Friday 18 June 2004, the Indonesian Society's Presidium Board, the Secretary General, officers and members offered a moment of silence as a tribute to the late Col. Brian Ward. We wish to convey our assurance that what he has started, at least in Indonesia, will be cherised and nurtured in part by the Society. In solidarity.
Dr Puji Pujiono, Indonesian Society for Disaster Management, Indonesia
Message:
On behalf of NCDM General Secretariat and as one partner of ADPC,I would like to express our deepest sympathy to you and your colleagues in the death of Col.Brian Ward. As you know since the foundation of NCDM in 1994, Col.Brian has greatly contributed to the capacity building of our organisation with all of his wisdom, his personal sacrifices and his oustanding personal profession for the sake of good disaster management in the region. Our sympathy goes to you, Dr Yodmani, and your colleagues from the bottom of our heart.
Peou Samy, Secretary General, National Committee for Disaster Management, Cambodia
Message:
I never met him but I would also like to convey my condolence to his family members, friends and colleagues and share my sorrow for the loss of such a great man. We wiill miss you badly.
M. A. Shakoor, Mba student, SOM, E-mail: shakooors@yahoo.com, Bangladesh
Message:
It is with great sadness that I have just learnt of the passing away of Colonel Brian Ward, and I along with all the members of Development Workshop send you our heartfelt condolences at this very sad time for you all, and for the entire disaster reduction community. I am sure that his huge contribution will stand as a leading influence in the field and inspire many of us in the years to come.
John Norton, Development Workshop, France, Viet Nam
Message:
I have been reached by the very sad news of Brian Ward s untimely passing. As someone who met Brian on only a few occasions during my days with UN OCHA (then UNDRO), I was struck by his kindness, professionalism and absolute commitment to the ADPC and its objectives. I should be very grateful if you could pass on my deepest sympathy to Brian s closest.
Ola Almgren, National Expert, Council of the European Union, Geneva, Switzerland
Message:
It remains for me a great privilege to have worked at
AIT/ADPC, with Brian and the team, as the first Programme Coordinator of
ADPC, over the period 1986 to 1989. Clearly Brian's simple idea to
establish a disaster training center was a seed, which with alot of nuture
and care, has produced fruit which many have drawn from. He deserves every
commendation for this contribution and for the way he has continued to
support it over the years.
Everett Ressler, ,
Message:
I have great respect and affection for Col Brian, though I have known him briefly as my client in web development. I am deeply saddened by his loss, he was a kind man and he has a good heart. May you rest in peace Brian and it was an honor to work for you!
Allan Catadman, Webknetix.Com , Bangkok
Message:
They said that situations will not make a person; they reveal him. I found that this holds true for Brian. I was one of the first few staff who learned about this shocking and heartbreaking news. I can't hardly believe it at first. I feel very sad of this event which many of us did not expect. I can still vividly hear the sound of Brian's voice and imagine him entering the office with his big attache case. I recalled reading his last email apologetically informing us that he can't come back to office on 17 May as planned because he will undergo a heart surgery. Upon learning this, I discussed with one of my colleagues here in the office the idea of organizing a welcome and a grand post birthday party in a hotel in Bangkok for Brian when he return from UK sometime in July to be attended by both present and former ADPC staff. I imagined this as a happy and great event for Brian and for all of us...then came this very tragic news... The pain of lossing Brian will soon be diminished with time but his legacy will continue to live on! Brian was a friend and father figure to many of us. A person whose wisdom and commitment I greatly admired. The wonderful memories he imprinted in our lives will always linger in our hearts. His sincerity and kindness will always be remembered. It's a great honor knowing him. Brian, you will be missed greatly!
Janette Lauza-Ugsang, ADPC, Philippines
Message:
I am really very sorry to hear the news of the sudden demise of the Founder of ADPC. I from my heart extend condolence to ADPC family in sad event of Col Brian demise and pray to God, may his soul rest in peace and may God give strength to all ADPC members to bear this great loss.
S/I Rakesh Kumar, Instructor, MFR/CSSR DM CELL, NISA, Hyderabad, India
Message:
We just met only a few days in April in ADPC when I arrived in Thailand. First time we met. I was impressed by your genuine humanitarian way of looking at the world. You were a true idealist having a full will to change the world by acting and not only thinking. I feel your presence for you are living in the memory of all staff members of ADPC. You are alive…here in Thailand and I am sure in many other places. You entered the everlasting Life, this was your hope. It is a source of consolation and joy.
Dubouloz, ADPC- Geneva, Switzerland
Message:
I was very shocked with the news of K.Col Brian last Tuesday from K.Poo by e-mail at first time.I don't want to believe that news. I had a sorrow very much after I know especially the first day and night.
I can remembered him and the first time that I talk to him at Kios in AIT and I got free a bottle of orange juice from him. That day was the first or second day that I was a ADPC staff. I asked him about my further study for master degree. I had been impresssed him very much since that time. He is a respected person who is very kind and friendly to me as very young girl and all ADPC staff. He doesn't have a ego.All events and the time that I spent working in ADPC and dealed the work with him and all colleagues it always in my memory because it was a very precious time for me. I don't know why I am so sad like he is one of my member of my family.I think no one can understand my feeling at the best as all ADPC family and K.Col Brian's family. I also remembered the night party at k.Col. Brian's house as well.
Now, I believe that K. Col Brian is at the beautiful place and he always see his colleagues and give encouragement too his colleagues at his place. He is always near us and his family too.( especially our heart )
May god bless K. Col Brian Ward.
Thank you to P' Poo , P'otto and ADPC colleagues to let me know this bad news.
ong
Nanthanit Iamcharernying(Ong), the former ADPC staff, Thailand-San Francisco
Message:
Though I met you briefly once in Bangkok, I still feel the freshness of your voice and cpncern for a safer community. May God Bless you in Heaven!!
Aslam Perwaiz, UNDP India, India
Message:
I just loose my father last 2 weeks ago and here again, my 2nd father that born me in the working's life and good life. Seems someone making joke to me but truly I can never meet daddy again along the way ......my daddy going back to sky somewhere he live before........
Vichai Dhuraphan., dhuraphan@hotmail.com, Former ADPC, Bangkok, Thailand
Message:
My thoughts and prayers for Colonel Ward, one of the finest people I have met at AIT.
Teresita M. Padilla, , Philippines
Message:
Brian-Mentor, Best Friend; You are terribly Missed!
Sanny
Sanny Jegillos, IDRM, Philippines
Message:
People are the memories that they leave behind in the hearts and minds of those who have known them.
On behalf of the CEO of IDRM, John Barrett AFSM, and all the staff of IDRM, we offer our sincere condolences to Brian's family and friends at ADPC and around the world.
Brian was larger than life, and will always be remembered in so many ways by so many people. His legacy to the field of disaster management has and will continue to be everlasting for the lives of millions around the world, as he was one of the key architects of this concept-
Brian Ward's life and work confirm that history is indeed largely shaped by great people.
May his soul rest in peace,
From John, Fainula, Sanny and the staff and colleagues at IDRM and partners.
Romeo S Recide, Bureau of Agricultural Statistics , Philippines
Message:
Indeed I am very sorry to learn about the sad incident. May I share the feelings of sorrow at this moment and ensure my fullest of cooperation.
Ahmed Kamal, ,
Message:
I am sad to hear the demise of Colonel Ward. I have not had the opportunity of meeting him, but from what you have described I feel it is a great loss for the disaster risk management community the world over. Kindly accept my heart felt condolences on this occasion.
Naunehal Shah, Focus Humanitarian, Pakistan
Message:
Lionel and Nishantha were out of Colombo when we received the sad news about Col. Brian Ward. It was really unexpected news, which gave us a shock. Brian was a dedicated Director of ADPC staff who supported and directed the Sri Lanka Urban Multi-hazard Disaster Mitigation Project (SLUMDMP) in numerous ways. We in SLUMDMP can often recollect our good and pleasant memories of his association in work related to Sri Lanka Project and also during several occasions when we met him at ADPC or elsewhere in different forums. Brian was a thorough gentleman with strong personality, a sincere friend who was respected by all and a successful superior who directed and guided us when we looked for his assistance. This is an irrecoverable and irreparable loss which can not be compensated by any means. The only way we can compensate the loss and respect Brian is to follow his advises and principles which we have gathered during his association. We conclude this message with a saying of Lord Buddha - "The Physical body will be ruined but the name will be long lasting". Please convey our heartfelt sympathies to Brian's family.
Nishantha Kamaladasa and Lionel Hewawasam, Sri Lanka Urban Multi-Disaster Management Project, Sri Lanka
Message:
My sincere condoleance to Brian's family and friends in ADPC, we all here share the grief and personally I will remember always his kindness to me and I have all his respect for him, since I met Brian for the first time in 1995 in Jakarta
Krishna S Pribadi, ITB, Indonesia
Message:
I was saddened to know that Col Ward had passed away. I was in Manila then when somebody from the OFDA called me about the news. I had offered some payers Col ward. It is a great loss for us. Col. Ward had done an extensive effort for disaster management.
Ernie, Naga Government, Philippines
Message:
I am very sad to hear that Col. Brian is no more with us. It is a great loss to all of us. May the departed soul rest in peace.
Dr Meen Bahadur Poudyal Chhetri, Deputy Regional Administrator, Regional Adm. Office, Ministry of Home Affairs , Kathmandu, Nepal
Message:
I am really sad on the demise of Col Brian. May God keep his soul in eternal rest. I am with you on the eve of this sad event, but you know this is mortal world and everybody has to leave it some day. The main thing is that we should keep the nice memories of this legend and try to implement what ever he wanted for the mankind.
Imtiaz Hussain Chaudhry , , Pakistan
Message:
May God rest the soul of Col. Ward. I had the honor of knowing him when he was a consultant to a UNDP assisted project in mid 90's. We maintained contacts after he completed his consultancy and returned to Bangkok. His departure is a big loss to me and also proponents of disaster management in Indonesia.
Kristanto Sinandang, UNDP, Indonesia
Message:
It is such a great loss to us who had been taught by Col. Bryan, he was great mentor and a gentleman. Our condolences to the bereaved family of Col. Bryan Ward.
Ernesto T. Elcamel, The City Government of Naga , Philippines
Message:
I know that this terrible news is especially devastating to you, and I am very sorry for this pain you are feeling. While I remain shocked and burdened by our sudden loss, you have lifted my spirits through your most eloquent and graceful tribute to the wonderful friend we had in Brian. No one could have expressed it better.
Shirley Mattingly, Consultant and Friend, ADPC, USA
Message:
I was shocked to hear the news about Brian. I was speaking to him not so long ago and he seemed so fit and healthy. He will be greatly missed. I would like to offer my condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.
Jeff Godfredson , Director, Asia Pacific and Middle East, NFPA, Australia
Message:
It took me days to gather my strength and accept the fact that Brian is no longer around physically. I know Brian since 1992 during the DMC 12. Since that day, we continue keeping in touch up right up to the week before he died. His recent communication is canceling his meeting with me in the Philippines because he is going to undergo his heart operation. Our set meeting was on June 14-20, 2004. Our meeting agenda is just simple...meeting my 9th month old son and my wife Beverly during our short vacation in the Philippines. This shows Brian's love and his nurturing spirit of being part of my family. He is indeed my Father both in my personal and professional life. He is always there offering alternative solutions or options to some of my questions. Although, he will be no longer with us physically, but his teachings, his kind nurturing spirit, his love and affection, his usual British candid jokes, his strong determination, his unselfishness, his passion to Disaster Management, his Damage Assessment and Needs Analysis, and the countless good moments when he is around will always remain and remembered as a source of strength and light as I move further to my life. Brain thank you for being you!
Rusty Binas, Friend and former ADPC Staff, Philippines
Message:
He was my teacher and friend - it is hard to believe this news.
Dr Roger Doran, Coordinator, WHO Programme for Enhancing Emergency Management in Mekong Countries, WHO, Viet Nam
Message:
On behalf of the team of Handicap International, I offer you my condolences for the death of your friend.
Blandine Le Bourgeois, Country Director, Handicap International,
Message:
We wish to express our heartfelt condolences to you and colleagues at the ADPC. Our thoughts and prayers are with Col. Ward's bereaved family at this moment of grief. May his soul rest in peace.
Riena Prasiddha, Technical Officer, Bureau for Resources Development, ASEAN Secretariat, Jakarta
Message:
From this distance, I join with you all at ADPC in mourning Brian's passing.
Richard Sharpe, Director, Earthquake Engineering, Beca International Consultants Ltd., New Zealand
Message:
Losing you is like losing a father. I will miss you, your smile and your laughter, and especially your kindness! You will forever be remembered, Brian...
Vicky Diopenes, ADPC, Bangkok
Message:
I am deeply saddened by the unexpected news, but thanks for letting me know though. Yes I agree, Brian has provided valuable contributions. I’ll miss him very much as a friend and a colleague.
Christine Apikul, Consultant, former staff of ADPC
Message:
I am deeply grieved to learn of the passing of our friend and colleague Brian Ward. He was a person for whom I had the greatest respect for both his personal and professional qualities. We shall all miss him. If there should be any memorial service for him here I would be pleased to receive an invitation.
Peter Rogers, Friend of Brian and ADPC , Consultant to ADPC
Message:
I have been sadly surprised to learn about the death of a very much esteemed professional, Mr. Brian Ward. I have had the opportunity know him when at ADPC. He was among the very first one to bring to the western hemisphere some of the numerous capacity of the center that you presently lead. On behalf of the Pan American Health Organization Latin American and Caribbean Disaster Program we would like to convey our deepest condolence to his families through you.
Jean Luc Poncelet, Area Manager, Disaster Preparedness Program, PAHO/WHO, Washington DC, USA
Message:
It is a great sadness for every one of the scientific community. We have lost a great personality. No one can fulfill his absence. I feel deep sadness. We missed him greatly.
Dr. Daya Shanker, Assistant Professor, Department of Earthquake Engineering, IIT Roorkee, India
Message:
I express my deep condolences for Col.Brian Ward pass away. Hope his commitment and dedication will always inspires and enlightens ADPC and disaster management community for developing a safer and better life.
Banu Subagyo, Programme Officer- Disaster Management, Oxfam Great Britain- Indonesia Office
Message:
I am shocked and greatly saddened by your news. I have known Brian for almost 20 years, and like you, he has been a constant source of inspiration to me. His enthusiasm and commitment was limitless; and his ability to enthuse and encourage people from all walks of life was a trademark that many, including me, have envied. I have felt honoured to have worked alongside him, albeit in a small way. I can understand how great the loss must be to you personally and the all his friends and colleagues at ADPC and AIT. Please accept my sincere condolences. With great sorrow.
Neil Britton, EQTAP Chief Coordinator, Earthquake Disaster Mitigation Research Centre, Japan
Message:
I am really shaken by the news of Brian's demise. I still can't fathom the fact that I won't be seeing him in his room when I visit ADPC. In fact I am so used to copying emails to him that today I did the same thing and had to delete his name. To me (and am sure to a lot of ADPC staff) Brian was a father figure, a leader, a mentor, a friend and a source of constant motivation. His demise will certainly leave a vacuum in ADPC and in our personal lives. I still remember the first time I met Brian. It was during the time I was doing a student assistantship with ADPC. He came across to me as a person who was really concerned about people and very approachable. The 4 years I have spent in ADPC wouldn't have been the delight of my life without Brian. He was the person who one could easily go for advice and seek guidance. I still remember his humility when we were writing about his achievements for the Sasakawa Award. His positive attitude and willingness to help was demonstrated when he accepted to be the team leader in ADPC's first tender bid to ADB. Brian has touched our lives in many different ways. I fondly remember his words when I had told him that I was accepted by RedR Australia for a job-"Go and work for them as they are a good organization, be ADPC's ambassador and come back and add value to ADPC and Asia". Brian's commitment to ADPC and the Disaster Management sector is unmatched. Being a British Royal Engineer, he strongly supported that ADPC and RedR work together and would have liked it very much that the MoU be signed when he was around. On a personal level, I will really miss the dinners hosted by Brian at his residence, his love for "Chappatis" in the Indian snack bar at AIT, and his allergy toward "Pagchii or Corriander". I will miss him a lot. I suggest that to keep his memory alive, ADPC can name the meeting room as Ward Board Room or have some award under his name. My prayers are with Brian's family. May his soul rest in peace. I also hope that the ADPC staff finds strength to carry on the excellent work which Brian initiated.
Gaurav Ray, RedR Australia, and former ADPC Staff
Message:
I am at a loss of words!
Kamal Kishore, Regional Disaster Reduction Advisor, Buraeau of Crisis Prevention and Recovery, United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and former ADPC Staff
Message:
Zen and I were shocked to hear of the sudden demise of Brian who has meant so much to all of us and to the two of us in particular. He was always warm and friendly to us all and we appreciated his openness and concern for all. He was seen by many as a father figure due to his concern for the welfare of each person around him. We know his presence will be particularly missed at ADPC which he supported with so much energy right to the end. It was his whole life, and whatever he did, it continued to be his main focus in life. Even though he was retired, he retired to Thailand, both because he loved living in Thailand and because he wanted to continue to be of whatever service he could to support ADPC in its endeavours. With the privilege of being its founder, he continued to see it as a father to a growing child, determined for it to grow up as a strong and healthy adult. Zen was attending a meeting in Copenhagen and when she gave the news to those who knew him, they were also very sad to hear about his passing. He has been so well respected throughout the disaster management field for a long time, and we hope his living legacy to disaster management in general and to ADPC in particular will always be remembered. We are planning to attend the funeral next Wednesday here in England, and we would be willing to represent ADPC at that event if you wish. We are sure we will meet with many friends of Brian who we know and who also know ADPC, and we will convey ADPC s sense of sadness and loss over his death.
Robin and Zen Willison, Robzen Consultants, Former ADPC Staff
Message:
As each of you, and we, were practically as close to Brian as extended family - as father (of ADPC), mentor, teacher, guide and friend - Char and I share with you the sense of loss at Brian's passing. Giving at different times of his interest, affection and guiding experience all extended with the utmost generosity, we can only now honour his life and respect his memory for what he gave to each of us. Uppermost in my own thoughts are Brian's convictions and encouragement of individuals' own capacities as much as their collective capabilities for accomplishment, delivered with clarity of purpose and his frequent good humour. This was wisdom, lightly carried but more importantly he expressed a caring, warmly conveyed, without fuss or pretence. I corresponded with him a few days before, and Char spoke with him immediately before, he entered the hospital. He was gracious and considering of others even then. Sounding very tired, but unfailingly generous and thinking of others despite his own serious condition, he specifically requested that compliments that I shared with him, rather be passed on to ADPC. This I have since done through Dr. Suvit. This we may consider as only one of Brian's legacies. To each of you we extend our condolences, and share with you our common loss of a man who touched us all.
Terry & Char Jeggle, Friends and close associates of Brian,
Message:
Life is punctuated with nice encouters. When we first met in ADPC's premises, we had the chance to meet Colonel Ward Brian and we won't forget him. We wish to express all our friendship and send you our deepest sympathy at this sad time. Please receive our most sincere condolences and please send them also to ADPC's staff and to the Colonel's family.
Jean-François Cazenave – President, Monique Lanne-Petit – Director, and the TSF offices
Message:
I was deeply sorry to learn of Khun Brian' death..the news shocked me… I recall his many kindnesses while I was in ADPC. He will be greatly missed, by those of you who worked closely with him, and also by all who knew him and had dealings with him.
Boonjira Intaratood (Khun Ta), Former ADPC Staff, Thailand
Message:
I am sorry to hear about the demise of Col. Brian Ward. I know that he was a very special person for all of you at ADPC.
Cees van Westen, ,
Message:
I feel indeed chocked. He was very energetic and it is difficult to believe he died, specially also for you and ADPC when it is that far away in Europe, UK. Col. Brian was very passionate about disaster management, as we all are, and he was one of the few, who started the shift from disaster response to more durable practises as disaster mitigation. I'm very grateful for his work and I admired him very much for his knowledge. I think he is for many people an example (especially for me) of how to put effort in things you believe in. Of course, we all feel helpless, but if there is anything I can do please tell me. Please forward my condolences (also from Laurent) to ADPC.A lot of warm feelings.
Christine van Kuik, Former Staff, ADPC
Message:
It is indeed very sad to hear about Col. Brian Ward's demise. We knew him as a most respectable gentleman during our visits to the ADPC. Because of his efforts in establishing the ADPC the project countries got the opportunity to carry out the country projects. This was of great assistance to Sri Lanka, and I am sure the other countries as well. I wish to express my heart felt condolences to his family at this hour of great sorrow.
Geethi Karunaratne, Former Director, Sri Lanka Urban Multi-Hazard Disaster Mitigation Project
Message:
It was devastating news to hear as I have always held Brian in the highest esteem as one of the finest men I have ever known. He was a father in many ways to all of us. I do really feel like a member of his family as I know many do - such was his generous heart. I know his loss hurts us all and makes the world a lesser place. I hope all of us can think together of some way to honour him and his life.
Dave Hollister, Former Deputy Executive Director, ADPC
Message:
My condolences to you and all Brian's friends and family. ADPC has lost a valuable advisor. The world of disaster management has lost a caring and compassionate colleague and an outstanding individual.
Don Schramm, University of Wisconsin, Washington, USA
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The news of Brian's passing has shocked and greatly saddened me. I had no idea that he had gone to the UK for another operation. Just a few weeks back we met when he invited us to the exhibition of paintings by the Thai artist he sponsored. I first met him almost 20 years ago in the earliest days of ADPC, for which he did such a wonderful job. I had the greatest respect for him as well as counting him a most valued friend.My sympathy goes to all his friends at ADPC in what is a great loss to all of us.
Peter Rogers, Friend of Brian and ADPC, Thailand
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It is sad to hear that Col Brain Ward passed away suddenly! We at CEPT mourn his sad demise. Please convey our condolences to his family.
Prof. Shivanand Swami, Former Director, Center for Environment Planning and Technology, Ahmedabad, India
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Please accept our sympathies. We wish you all the strength to cope with this sudden and sad loss.
The news shocked me. I have had few moments with col. Brian including the last one when I was reintroduced to him during DMC 30. I found him very much open minded and like a guardian. I understand how hard the time is for you all at the moment. I mourn his death and pray for eternal peace for his soul.
Bishnu Hari Pandey, Researcher, Disaster Management Planning Hyogo Office, UN Centre for Regional Development
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I am deeply sad to the news of Col. Brian Ward. He contributed a lot to disaster management initiatives, especially for this region. Col. Brain was indeed a professional and disaster management specialist, with a lot of ideas and plans to move it. I am one of the fortunate to work with him.
Abdul Latif Khan, National Consultant, Preparedness and Training, Comprehensive Disaster Management Programme, UNDP, Bangladesh
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It is indeed sad to hear about Col. Brian Ward. He was a resource person when I followed the CBDM course and his lecture materials were very helpful to me when I was preparing notes for mobilisation of Finances. I remember mentioning it to him when I met him quite later. I suppose with all the medical facilities and expertise available in the UK it was unavoidable. You got to console yourself with the teachings of Lord Buddha especially when you experience a sudden loss. Ironically its 2 years since I lost Gami, and I know how one feels.
Swineetha de Silva, National Building Research Organization (NBRO), Sri Lanka
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This was devastating news for all of us. Brian was a perfect gentleman, a great human being, liked by all and respected by all, looked at people based not on nationality but on the need to assist, which explains his endeavour to establish ADPC, so that people of Asia could benefit from the advances of science and technology while confronting the risks from natural hazards. He was a great friend of many of us - he encouraged NSET at all occasions, while doing the UDM or EVRC in Nepal, or while we were trying to establish rapport with Pahar Trust or with the civil affairs group of the British Army or with the Gurkha Brigade. We at NSET mourn his sad demise. Kindly convey our condolences to his family.
Amod Dixit, General Secretary, National Society for Earthquake Technology, Nepal
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I am deeply saddened by the news that another well respected friend and colleague has passed from our lives. Brian was indeed a role model for so many people and his commitment to the alleviation of suffering of people living in at-risk conditions around the world will not fade from memory. His gentle manner, intellect and smile remains with us ... Please extend our deepest sympathies to the ADPC family in Bangkok and to Brian's relatives.
With profound grief and sorrow we join with all in grieving the sad demise of Col. Brian Ward. The loss I know is heavy to bear; may Almighty give Brian's family the courage and strength to overcome it and may his soul rest in eternal peace.
I am very shocked to hear this sad news and the loss of the Great Disaster Guru.
Golam Kabir, USAID, Dhaka, Bangladesh
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I am very much shocked to hear the sad news. To me he was very much gentle and polite person. He sacrificed significant time of his life for the vulnerable people of the Asia - Pacific region through his work at the ADPC. I wish to express my regards to him and pray to the Almighty God for eternal peace to his departed soul. I would also like to convey my condolence to his family, friends and colleagues and share my sorrow at this irreplaceable loss.
Nurul Huda, Project Manager BUDMP, CARE BANGLADESH
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I am very sad to hear the news of the passing away of my friend Col Brian Ward. Please send my condolences to his family and I shall pray that GOD forgive him and that HE granted Col Brian Ward a decent place at HIS side. I knew him from many years back and had enjoyed working with him when he was ADPC Director and I had many fond memories about him.
Teddy Boen , WSSI- Board Member,, Indonesia
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I have just learned about the passing away of our common friend, Brian Ward. I rarely encountered someone encompassing all the fine qualities of a British gentlemen and a professional in the extent of Brian. It is a great loss for his family, his many friends and the disaster community at large. I would like to convey my personal condolence to all who have known him.
Claude de Ville de Goyet M.D., Consultant, Emergency Preparedness and Humanitarian Assistance
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I was very sad to hear about the passing away of Col. Brian Ward last Saturday in the U.K. I fondly remember my long association with Col. Brian Ward with whom we began the process of creating the PHEMAP Courses in February 1993. He was a good friend and a fine person. The EHA Programme in SEARO and WR Office Thailand as well as other EHA and Water & Sanitation focal points in the member countries of South-East Asia Region share your loss. We wish to convey our heartfelt condolences to all members of the bereaved family. May the departed soul rest in peace.
Luis Jorge Perez-Calderon M.D., Regional Advisor, Emergency & Humanitarian Action, World Health Organization, Regional Office for South East Asia, India
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I am sorry to hear about Col Brian Ward. He is a great loss to the cause of disaster management! Although I never had the opportunity of working with Brian, I have heard a lot of good things about him.
Dr Arturo Pesigan, Technical Officer, EHA, WHO-WPRO, Philippines
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This note is to let you know how sad I am to have just learned of Brian's death. He was a truly inspirational man and I greatly enjoyed working with him during my brief spell at ADPC, loving his candour and great sense of humour. Although we stood at different ends of the political spectrum and held quite diverse views on a number of issues, mutual respect; a love of wine; and our essential 'Britishness' meant we shared many laughs. I am sure Brian will be a great loss to ADPC and the wider international disaster risk management movement. I think it truly remarkable that he was able to maintain such an energetic enthusiasm and interest in the Center's development up until his death. It is a truly exceptional person who is able to maintain a keen interest in; and devote energy and enthusiasm to an organisation he has founded while relinquishing control, allowing new people to come in and encouraging their innovative ideas. I will always remember Brian's keen intellect; love of reading and appreciation of the importance of knowledge and information in organisational development. I have found returning to academe extremely challenging, but the opportunity to read and engage with theory has proved most rewarding. This experience has convinced me of the necessity of practitioners constantly engaging with contemporary theory. I hope that ADPC will be able to maintain the library and develop a knowledge / information programme as part of Brian's legacy to the disaster risk management community. Please pass on my condolences to Brian's family.
