November 9th

Tight HUGS and lots of LOVE to you all. Shabbar and Rebecca

Betsy, Annie, and Marion, We are walking with you in your grief and embracing you tightly with so much love and light and peace. Always, Anat, Chad and all the Shaws

Steve will remain in my heart and soul always and just as Betsy says, " He was a strong, just and kind man" Thank you Betsy and your family for all of your care for Steve and giving him so much strength to keep on living well and even playing wonderful music with us just a couple of weeks ago. Love, Gregg

Crying, and so so sorry for your loss. Steve was such an amazing, wonderful man. I send my warmest thoughts to you all. Cat

It is with great sorrow and a sense of profound loss that I, as a colleague of Steve, extend my heartfelt condolences to you, one and all. I can only imagine what the loss of such a giant of a soul was to his immediate family. Please accept my deepest sympathies. Sincerely and with respect, Colin Soskolne

With hearts full of love for you all, Ken and I want to express our gratitude for Steve, and for you, Betsy, Ann, and Marion, that you were able to share so much love in this lifetime, and be with Steve in this love until the end--though the love has not ended and will not end. Steve was such a very special light in our world, and he so generously shined that light on all the rest of us, in his spirit, his music, his work, his love of family and community. That light, we hope, will shine on more brightly in each of us, because of Steve's love for us. Ken & I send you our love and gratitude and presence as you grieve your loss, and celebrate Steve and his abundant radiance.

Betsy, Ann,& Marion, Our hearts are breaking for you all & your family. We are sending love & hugs. Chris, Keith, Megan, Bethany, & Lindsey

Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time. I am so greatful to have had the opportunity to get to know Steve as a person and as a musician, he will be missed on many levels.

Steve was a dear friend, a great musician, a wonderful guy, and an inspiration to me and everyone around him. I'm so glad Gregg Gelb and I got to play a little music with him recently and listen to his stories about childhood in New Orleans, musicians we knew in common, and so on. To say I miss him is an understatement. My thoughts are with Betsy, Ann, Marion, and everybody else who loved this kind man.

Betsy, Ann and Marion my heart is broken and I've shed tears. I will miss his kind spirit and bright smile walking past my desk and how we'd often share stories about our family. He truly loved you all so much. He told me many times to keep smiling and I'm smiling right now as I write this. I pray you have comfort and strength at this time. With deep respect, Lisa Bradley (EPID main office)

The world lost a beautiful soul today. Steve changed so many lives, mine included, and his legacy will live on in all of his friends, family and extended family as we continue to try to live up to the hopes he had for us and this world.

Dear Betsy, Ann, and Marion... I have never met you, but I knew Steve through Nancy Holt... Steve was a wonderful person, and a huge influence in my fight against sewage sludge... I enjoyed getting to know him, and gained much knowledge from him... I will continue my fight, knowing that I am further embolden by his example... Steve is now at peace with no more pain, exhaustion, and disease...wrapped in the wings of his guardian angels... for his journey home... I am sending love, prayers, peace, and comfort to you all... Myra Markham Dotson, Founder & Chair Sewage Sludge Action Network

Oh, Betsy, Anne and Marion, I am so sorry. I knew this day would come, and I am still devastated to hear this news. For years, he was and will always remain a true hero in my eyes and heart for his courageous and invaluable academic work. We lost a great soul today. My heart goes out to you and to all those whose lives he touched through his life and through his work. All love and blessings to your family as you carry on your lives with Steve anchored in your hearts.

Betsy, Ann and Marion, i am heartbroken for all of us and for you. Please let us know how we can help. Barbara

Dear Betsy, Ann and Marion, Our hearts are with your hearts, utterly broken and grieving but beating yet with all the passion and joy for living that Steve embodied-- his love of family, friends and community; his mischievous and generous sense of humor; his sensitivity, warmth, respect and kindness; his infectious passion for his music; his kickass sense of social justice; his love of this beautiful world and his environmental stewardship of it and the health of all beings; his deep wisdom, insight and ability to see under peoples' skin and behind their masks. All of at rubbed off on everyone of us and we are forever changed for the better because of him. You know that we are here for you. Sending love, hugs, support and deep sympathy,

Dear Betsy, Marion and Ann, it is a gift to be in your huge circle of love. I wish you all the support and comfort you can hold. I'll say once more, this was not right, but Steve did pick the right day to go. Love, Jo

I am so sorry to hear this. Love to all the Wings. May his spirit soar. Love, Karen

Dear Betsey, Ann, and Marion, We all are deeply saddened by Steve's passing, full well knowing that his final breath had been imminent for a few weeks. Steve was a courageous fighter for ideas and the underprivileged in this world. He has done so much good and we all will benefit in the future because of his high ethical support of our nation's health. He was a wonderful family man and a caring human being. With best wishes from a friend, John Anderson

We have lost a great champion of justice, and a wonderful friend to so many. My heart is full of grief, but also thankfulness to have been part of your lives for so long, and will continue to be. I'm grateful that the end, came quickly for Steve, and with you by his side. All my love to you.

I am so sorry for your loss. The world is in trauma, but his spirit and compassion will always remain as a bright spot in my heart. Sending love and support... Andy

Jerry and I share your grief at his passing. We are also strengthened in our efforts by having his example of environmental leader and teacher, family loving way, and community activism. His memory will remain with us and peace to all, Cathy Markatos

I celebrate Steve's life for his commitment to his students, his abiding concern for justice, and his friendship to me. My thoughts and prayers for him and for you, Betsy and family.

This makes everything else going on in our world pale in comparison. I feel like I've lost a brother. Peace!

I will miss seeing his smiling face in the hallways. Steve and I co-taught an intro class for the Masters students in Epi for a few years and I really enjoyed getting to know Steve- his passion for social justice and his truly caring nature. He will be missed. He was a special individual. Peace and love.

Betsy, Ann and Marion: I have not met any of you, but I thank you for sending this message of Steve's death. I knew him in relation to nuclear weapons, especially plutonium, the principal material used in the now closed Rocky Flats Plant a few miles south of Boulder, where I live. Because of his research and writing, I knew his name long before I met him in person. He came to the Rocky Mountain Peace and Justice Center a couple of times to discuss radiation health effects with a range of people, including workers at Rocky Flats. The last time I was with him was when he appeared in court in a class action case brought against Dow Chemical and Rockwell International, operators at the plant during production years. A wonderful man, he will be missed by many. LeRoy

Wishing his family all the best wishes during this time. Steve was a great mentor; I'm lucky to have worked with him. I'll always remember the things he taught me-and his shining eyes when he talked about the music he loved and the things he was most passionate about.

Rest in peace, Steve, and Steve's family, thank you for sharing this last journey with us all through this site. Wishing you comfort and strength. My sympathy, Marie

Very, very sorry to hear this. My prayers, thoughts and sentiments to the entire Wing family. What a loss for all of us. Please know that there are many of us who you may not know (well) whose lives have been touched by Steve's wonderful contributions to the world. So sad to lose such a sweet and kind soul at such a young age. He will be sorely missed in so many realms. My condolences to Betsy and your whole family. Mary Beth Powell

I'm so sad to hear this. My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family. I didn't know Steve extremely well- I only took one class with him as a grad student, but what a huge loss this is. He was the epitome of an excellent scientist and a strong advocate and did it all with conviction, grace and passion. His classes were eye opening and I often think about the lessons I learned from them.

My thoughts and prayers have been and will continue to be with you for a long time to come. Steve was a wonderful brilliant loving and talented man. I know you are terribly sad and will be missing him hugely. I wish you all peace and love and many blessing coming your way today , tomorrow, and always.

Such a dark day. Steve has always been a bright light in scientific discussions and it is with particular sadness when people with that light pass on. Prayers to the family during this difficult time. Please know that Steve will continue to be an inspiration to many. I hope your memories of him bring you comfort and peace during this time of sorrow.

So much love will continue to be sent to Steve's family. Hope you feel all these hugs surrounding you at this extremely sad time. Steve was one of my hero's. xoxo Cathy

Steve was my hero and I hope his spirit and inspiration to others will continue to be a strong guiding force for good in the world.

Clearly Steve was one of those amazing people who used his scientific training to support a life-affirming world, rather than one in which hominids treat the earth as a mere sewer and storehouse. He will be missed by all, including the natural world for whom he had the utmost respect. His inspiration and work will live on through the many people and projects he touched during his time here.

to Steve's family - so saddened - but, know Steve will always live on with his spirit surrounding us and holding us for the earth and for justice. Peace and love now - Kitty Bass

I'm immensely grateful to have known Steve; he had a profound effect on my understanding and appreciation for work we have chosen to do in public health. He always found a new and unique perspective when it came to looking at problems, and his passion for helping others was always genuine, and contagious. He never failed to do the right thing, no matter the stakes, and empowered others to seek justice for themselves when they otherwise might not thought it possible. My heart is heavy for his wonderful family as they say goodbye to Steve, but I know his impact on this world and many lives in it will always keep him in our minds, as we try to live our lives using the amazing example he set.

I am so sad hearing this news. Steve was a wonderful colleague and had so much respect from students, other faculty and community. My deepest condolences to the family. May he rest in peace. --Vijaya Hogan

Betsy and family - may the love that you have shared with Steve stay in your hearts for all of your days. Steve has been a guide for me for many years - his life and work flowed from a fountain of love - so many of us have been inspired by Steve's love for the life we all share here. Craig Slatin

Steve Wing mY have had the very best energy that I have ever been privileged to share. No one had to tell me what type of man he was - I could feel the joy and kindness and sincerity exude from him every time he graced our stage. We will all miss him. Catrina and C Grace staff

Love and peace to you Betsy, Ann, Marion. I'm so grateful for those last few Friday afternoons we had playing music with Steve and seeing how he rose up from his illness to make amazing music. I know he was many powerful things in this world but to those of us who mainly knew him through his music he was an inspiration to always find the joy in the music making and to always use the power of the music for spreading that joy and strength and empowerment and beauty and love. We will carry on his good work.

Frankie Alexander No words can express my feelings of sorrow that I will never again hear that steady, kind, truthful and wonderful voice. My heart goes out to the family that he was blessed to have in his too short life.

Betsy, Ann, Marion, Sam, and Family, I cannot find the words, really. Steve was such an inspiring human being. He truly influenced all of us Chatham girls to be independent, to tell truth to power, and to never give up; to be activists and pioneers. My heart is aching for you and for your great loss. I love you all. Hailey

Betsy, Ann, Marion, Sam, and Family, I cannot find the words, really. Steve was such an inspiring human being. He truly influenced all of us Chatham girls to be independent, to tell truth to power, and to never give up; to be activists and pioneers. My heart is aching for you and for your great loss. I love you all. Hailey

Sending thoughts and love to you all. Jim Smith and Susan Kelemen

Steve left an indelible print of knowledge, compassion and true vocation on all who had the privilege to learn from him. We are all so sad to hear of this loss. Sending love to his family and friends.

Thinking of your family during this time. I am so sad, but am hopeful that through the many, many people Steve has inspired and touched, the world will become a more just, more healthy, and more happy place. I’m so grateful to have had him as a mentor.

I am short of words at this loss. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace. Adieu Steve, a committed member of the ISEE Ethics & Philosophy Committee. I pray that God’s peace that passes all understanding abide with the family he left behind (Amen). Please accept my condolence. ‘Toun Mustapha, Nigeria

My husband, Louie III, and I mourn with you. We have lost the presence of a passionate scholar and remarkable human being. Steve's irrepressible intellect and piercing hopefulness -- well, they humble me. In our last e-mail exchange, he talked about how working with communities fighting for human rights is a source of "strength and hope." I marvel at how he experienced a potential burden (the challenges of this work) instead as joy and sustenance. In his message, he also gushed over our toddler, who had LOVED playing with him and Betsy. :-) That little kindness, taking the time to appreciate a child's smile and life, is one of the main ways I'll remember Steve - his heart was so big. He loved you all deeply. I hope that you will draw strength and hope from us as we reflect back the love and joy that Steve has left in his wake.

Dearest Ones, Steve was remarkable and we were all better to have known him- he stood for all things decent and on top of that had the strength of his convictions, an intact moral compass and a whole lot of courage both in his work life and his fight these past years. Greatly admired by so many, our hearts are so heavy today yet stand at the ready for you, Betsy, Ann, Marion, Sam, Loa. and Miles. Jan, Ben, Skyler, Hailey and Marguerite

My heart and thoughts are with you all. I am so grateful to have been able to work with and learn from Steve. His intellect and integrity are unparalleled, and his kindness has always been so special to me. He's an incredible inspiration to all of us, and his spirit will continue in all of us who have been so privileged to know him.

Dear Betsy, Marion, and Ann I am very sorry to hear the news of your husbands and fathers passing. I did not know Steve personally but a mutual friend of Marion and I shared this site with me and hope it is appropriate for me to say something to show my support during this difficult time. This journal you guys have created shows just how much Steve not only meant to you personally but to the surrounding community of family, friends, students and colleagues. After reading through, Steve was a person who was larger than life. He continued to do what he loved and continued to inspire so many through his teachings and music even while battling. Every person who Steve came in contact with is a better person for having known him and I wish I was as fortunate. Heaven has gained a wonderful and beautiful soul and I know he will be looking down from time to time. Very sorry for your loss and we are here if you need anything - Rob Sweeney

Dear Betsy, My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. But I hope you will draw some comfort knowing how deeply Steve has touched and inspired so many of us over the years with his work and wisdom. I still continue to receive signatures in support of Steve from advocates all over the nation. We will all carry on, as best we can, his work and spirit that has helped so many. In sympathy and peace, Bob

Steve was equal parts brilliant and kind. It was impossible as student not to be reshaped and inspired by him. Seeing all these heartfelt posts is a real testament to his rich and meaningful life. My deepest sympathies.

Dearest Wing Family, Our hearts are sad and heavy with this news. Steve was incredibly special in so many ways. His commitment to justice and well being of his community, his joy in making music but, especially his strong love for you -his family- will remain in our memories /hearts until our last breath. Whenever we hear or sing the song "Goodnight Irene", we will always think of Steve. We love you and care about you-now and in the days to come, Kim and Lewie Caraganis

Betsy, Ann and Marion, I'm so sorry that you have to go through this sadness. Steve was such an important friend, and at such important times in my life. I learned a lot from him, and had some of the best times of my life hanging out with him: I'm thinking clams and beer while rehearsing Motown songs in Murphy farmhouse; driving around Chatham County in a dusty pickup, sometimes quite aimlessly; his joy in telling me about finding this girl named Betsy, with the silver Vega; playing music in fancy ballrooms and crusty, empty bars; cutting and nailing up poplar boards; rolling and smoking Balkan Sobranie cigarettes in front of the glorious fireplace in a living room we were building; and talking, yelling and laughing about everything, everything, everything. My wish for you is that the healing proceeds exactly as it's supposed to. I'm thinking of you all.

I am so saddened to hear of Steve's passing and am sending my deepest condolences down to you, Betsy, Ann and Marion. I am thankful to have known him as a mentor and will do my best to keep his most generous spirit alive in my capacity as a researcher, teacher, activist, and friend.

First, please accept my deepest sympathy at this difficult time for your family. Steve was a classmate at Durham High School. It saddens me that I was not aware of Steve's work for social justice. Of course, that should not have surprised me. However, I would like to have been able to cheer him on! May his work on behalf of so many others bring you some comfort. In this week of All Saints' Sunday, know what a saint Steve was and that he still lives among us. May Steve Wing rise in glory and rest in paradise. Will+ The Very Rev. W. (Will) H. Mebane, Jr., DHS ;70, UNC-CH '75 Interim Dean St. Paul's Episcopal Cathedral, Buffalo, NY

When we were in the wilderness, Steve gave us light and love. We will always be so grateful.

Betsy, Ann, and Marion, This is such sad news. My heart is heavy as I read it and I miss just knowing he was there to lend an ear or some advice. We are offering prayers of comfort and peace for your family. Steve will always be with us in our memories and his legacy lives on in the work of so many to bring justice to our country. Surely, he is marching with the saints and jamming with that big jazz band in the sky. (Timothy says, "I hope you feel better now" for Mr. Steve. Lots of love to all of you, Kim, Sam, Timothy, and Ceci

Holding you and Steve in my heart. I can't believe that he is gone. What a loss to us all!

Betsy, Ann and Marion, I am deeply saddened by Steve's passing. He fought this last battle like he did all of the ones he faced, with courage, intellect, and a never give up attitude. He was a valued friend and colleague and was such an important figure in the fight for environmental justice in North Carolina. His worked touched many, many people nationally. I will miss him. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers. Bob Martin, Johns Hopkins Center for a Livable Future

Steve was a gem---a man of unimpeachable moral character, ever so humble, gentle, and kind. I have never met anybody like him. A true role model remains steadfastly opposed to injustice, even when the world is leagued against him. Steve was, indeed, such a man. I am honored to have worked with him and learnt from him. Ashley I Naimi, Pittsburgh, PA.

I looked up to Steve as an epidemiologist, teacher, musician, citizen and human being. Although I struggled to emulate his model in all of those dimensions, I didn't come close in any of them. I will miss Steve very much, but won't stop aspiring to be more like him, to live a life that reaches up to try to match the example that he set.

This is heartbreaking on so many fronts. I hate that I did not cross paths with Steve while I was in grad school (marine sciences) at Chapel Hill. When I started with the Catawba Riverkeeper in 2012, I immediately learned of Steve and his seemingly impossible -- but infinitely needed -- role of academic researcher and advocate for those who lives were wrecked by CAFOs and sewage sludge. Steve made the ultimate effort, dedicating his life, reputation and research to improving the lives of these people. That's what makes this hurt so much. Steve was also such a good and important friend of those who were affected by pollution and of those who advocated with him. His loss is tremendous on so many levels. I am grateful that I was able to cross paths with him and share a final hug in September. He was frail, but he seemed to be doing well. But that's cancer. To Steve's family, I am so sorry and can only imagine how difficult it is to have also known him on another level, as a husband and father.

Very sad loss of a great hero of environmental health - Steve Wing never missed an opportunity to sign on, stand up, speak out, and take action to defend the human right to a clean and healthy environment. Thank you Steve - godspeed. My warmest condolances to his family and friends. - Jen Sass

Dearest Wings, Steve touched the world in a way few people do. It is an honor to have known him. I hold you all in a circle of love, healing and light. Many blessings to you. Wherever a beautiful soul has been, there is a trail of beautiful memories. Lovelovelove, Susan and Verne

Steve’s kindness, humbleness and passion were truly inspirational. I am grateful for to have had the opportunity to know and learn from him. Please accept my most sincere condolences

I feel so fortunate to have been one of Steve's students. In his ethos and his work, he was an incredible role model to have for how to be a conscientious, dedicated, and intelligent researcher and public health advocate. On top of that, he always had a kind word or encouraging smile. His example lives on, and continues to inspire me and so many others to do better in my work. My deepest condolences to you, his family. I will never stop feeling grateful to have known him and learned from him.

Kitty and I are saddened by Steve's passing. We are privileged to know and work with Steve in seeking some justice for radiation victims of the Cold War. Alice Stewart introduced us to Steve some 20 years ago. While he will be missed, Steve's kindness and passion for sticking up for ordinary people are attributes that have lasting resonance. We extend our condolences. Bob Alvarez and Kitty Tucker

I add my condolences to Steve's family and the larger community who counted him as a friend. Steve was a classmate and later a colleague for many years at UNC and we maintained contact after I left UNC. His willingness to speak to my classes in Colorado by SKYPE enabled me to share his wisdom with an even wider community of future public health advocates. I have always admired his intellect and integrity as well as his courage in the face of intense political pressure. He was an inspiring role model. I am confident his legacy will remain a source of inspiration for generations of public health professionals and community activists. Carol Runyan

I very much admired Steve as my professor in community-driven epidemiology and environmental justice. He was creative, committed, open, honest, and kind. His class was so refreshing and so real, and gave me practical tools to use my academic skills to promote social justice. Thank you to Steve for being such a wonderful role model to countless students and professors. Sending prayers to Steve's family and loved ones.

We mourn the loss of Steve, a champion of science for environmental justice. Our deep condolences to his family. Paul Gunter and the rest of staff at Beyond Nuclear.

Dear Betsy, Ann and Marion: Please allow me to offer my undying admiration for Steve - and to share my sadness and condolences upon his passing to you who loved him so much. In 1998, Steve came to Livermore and spoke at several forums my organization organized in the community and at the Livermore Lab visitor's center auditorium. Oh my goodness, I could go on for pages about how clearly he spoke, about the depth of his knowledge, about his shining integrity, about his deep kindness and generosity, and so much more. His visit meant more than words can convey to all of us at Tri-Valley CAREs and to our community. Steve was part of our learning about epidemiology - both its strengths and its limitations - and, beyond that, Steve was likewise a colleague in our ongoing struggles for social and environmental justice. In 2003, when the Alliance for Nuclear Accountability, a network of groups whose members work and live around US nuclear weapons facilities, gave Steve an award, I/we understood it as a small "thank you" and as a mere shadow of the depth of our regard for Steve and his work. Truly, he honored us more than we were ever able to honor him. From all of us... Steve Wing, presente!

So very sad to hear this news. My parents were close friends with Steve's parents, Cliff and Lee, and I admired Steve from back in the old days when he played piano at Salaam Cultural Center in Durham. I am so grateful for his work as a community advocate, defender of the earth, and teacher and mentor to so many people. He was an amazing force for good on our planet. I send heartfelt condolences to the whole family. Alison Greene

Sending love to the beautiful Wing family. May Steve continue to inspire us all. -Erica Hiller

One thing that Steve told me that I will never forget, is that he expected me to embarrass myself as a student of public health. He told me this repeatedly, and encouraged me to ask questions, open doors, and ponder the status quo. He said that this is the responsibility and the role of the student who has the potential naivety, as well as the excitement to procure change. My heart hurts for Betsy, Marion, and Annie- Steve's loss will be felt widespread but inconsequential to the loss of your partner, father, and hero. Much love, Ridley

Our deepest sympathies to your family. The world has lost a true warrior for human and environmental justice.

My condolences to all of you as you grieve for Steve. I'm glad he had happy days until the end and times to be with family and friends. Steve was an inspiration to all of us working in the field of public health and environmental justice. He was not afraid to tell it like it is. He will be sorely missed not only by his family, but also by both colleagues and those in the communities that were the focus of his work. It was a privilege and honor to have known Steve through my work at the Johns Hopkins Center for a Livable Future. Steve's spirit will live on in the many students and colleagues who have been inspired by his passion for environmental justice. With deepest sympathy, Polly Walker

I remember Steve well from when I was a preschool teacher for Anne and Marion. He was always so kind and so much fun when he volunteered at the school! He brought such humor and warmth and laughter. I've followed his career in the newspaper as he won awards or accolades and wondered if anyone reading about this distinguished man would believe that he was the most down to earth, goofy, playful and wonderful kid-at-heart guy. I am so sorry for your loss.

We have lost so many of "the Best of the Best" this past year. Steve is surely flying high among them. Though I came into his presence through music during the years of the Salaam Cultural Center with Brother Yusef in the early 80s, I did not know him personally. Still I always greatly admired him from a distance. When I heard him speak at UNC a few years ago, I was deeply moved by his intelligence, compassion, humility, and the generosity of his spirit which he expressed through his work on behalf of us all. He was a one of a kind human being and so profoundly gifted! How I wish there were more like him! He leaves it to us to now follow in his footsteps as we face the world he has left behind. Surely it and we are better for his presence while he lived, and this will continue to be so from where he now dwells. In peace may it be.

I am so sorry, Betsy, such a loss. I met you only once, at the Nussbaums, in Portland, and met Steve several times, at Alice Stewart’s. Steve was there for me with help and encouragement through the long writing of Alice’s biography. He of all people understood her significance, and his steadfast support mattered a lot to me, in terms of information he provided and moral support. He was a hero for the stand he took on Three Mile Island, and was widely known and admired for the courageous and principled positions he took. . And he wore his intelligence and his accomplishments with such modesty and grace. He was a great man. I feel his loss keenly. I hope you can find strength in the love people are sending your way.

Dear Betsy, Ann, Marion, Our hearts go out to you. Steve was an all round great guy. He loved his family, home, and friends. "Those that live in the hearts of others never die". Steve will always be. Sending Love, Karen and Rufus

Dr. Wing is emblematic of a man who did the "good science" and who also had the "good conscience."  He effectively applied the science and effectively communicated the findings to the Public.  He was a valued volunteer advisor to the DEEOIC Interim Advisory Board.  He will be sorely missed by us and other advocates for the sick nuclear weapons workers.  Our condolences to his family, friends and those who have been touched by his compassion and integrity. Terrie Barrie

To all Wing Family and extended family: I just saw this latest post. I've been totally out of the loop, due to our move to Connecticut and resultant lack of computer access. I can't add anything to the comments already posted, as I know Steve was such a valued, loved person. Please accept my heartfelt sorrow for the loss of such a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather. I know he is missed by many. Much love, Bernie and Gordon

The Radiation and Public Health Project always considered Steve a colleague, and valued his work on the health dangers of nuclear power. We ask the family how best we can honor him. --- Joe Mangano, Executive Director

Betsy, I don't think I've seen you since graduation, but I am so very sorry to hear about Steve. Words are inadequate much of the time, and now, especially, so I send warm thoughts and a hug rooted in good times long ago. Pamela Brown

Betsy, I did not have the pleasure of seeing Steve since high school However, I would like to share with you one of my fondest memories from high school. He wrote this poem for homework in the 11th grade: "The sky drooled water in sticky silence While cars rolled by Throwing mud aside as people smothered me and I vomited in the gutter." Our teacher, Betsy Maclean, gave him an "A" for his effort. I always wished I had such talent to be successful with just one sentence. Rest in peace my friend. Peter Preston

Dear Betsy, Ann and Marion, my sincere condolences. This is the end of his suffering and a new phase for you. It will be hard but you will have to move on with life and keeping his good memory. Two years ago this month, I asked from Steve to take on from me the leadership of the Ethics and Philosophy Committee of the International Society for Environmental Epidemiology, He was the perfect person to lead it given his engagement, thoughtfulness, and ethical standards. He told me he would think about it. When I checked with him again in March last year he told me the bad news of being recently diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer. I knew from past experience with this terrible disease that this was a death sentence. He continued to be actively engaged in discussions of our committee and we were hoping he can make it to the society's meeting that year to properly honor him. Thank you for regularly sharing his news and keeping us living with you all from afar. Please accept my sympathies and support.

Seems as though there are few words of high praise and regard left. So I leave my name along with so many others who are saddened by the untimely loss of this man but who are so grateful for having crossed paths with him. He mentioned last year that none of us are here on this earth that long. May the light that he gave to so many help us to share that light.... With hope that the passage of time will help to lift the spirits of his family and friends.

Betsy, Ann and Marion- Thank you for sharing your journey with us all. Although Steve is gone, I will continue to lift you and your family up in prayer as you move on to celebrate his incredible legacy while grieving his absence. He was an incredible man who touched the lives of many, and though gone, will not be forgotten. God Bless.

We will miss our friend and colleague Steve. We will miss his inquiring mind and his friendship. Steve and I first met back in 2009 when each of us was an invited speaker at the Pennsylvania Statehouse in Harrisburg for the 30th commemoration of the nuclear meltdown at the TMI atomic power reactor. I spoke first, discussing how the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) had deliberately understated the amount of radiation released during the nuclear power disaster. Steve followed with a presentation that showed that cancer rates in the vicinity of Harrisburg increased significantly after the meltdown radioactive releases. Steve's great presentation is on the Fairewinds website. Steve and I had never met before that day in Harrisburg, and neither of us knew of each other’s TMI testimony or what the other was presenting on that 30th commemoration of the first commercial atomic power reactor meltdown. Before seeing Steve’s data that day, I could not understand why more people had not gotten cancer as a result of the radioactive releases I analyzed and the NRC attempted to cover-up. Steve could not understand how cancer rates could have risen so much when he reviewed the NRC’s grossly underestimated calculations. When we finished presenting on that March day, we both understood the logical consequences of each other’s expert reports and evidentiary testimonies and the full magnitude of the TMI meltdown became apparent to both of us. In that ‘eureka moment’ we became fellow truth-sayers, respected colleagues, and fast friends. Steve was a renowned epidemiologist not just for his work on TMI but also for his pursuit of the truth in many cases where the public health was often jeopardized. He will be sorely missed by many, not just Maggie and I. Goodbye old friend.

Steve was a great inspiration to so many. A true pioneer for the cause of environmental justice. His legacy will live on in the many students, community leaders and colleagues he mentored who will continue his work. To his family I say, thank you for lending Steve to us. He did great work to improve the lives of many. With sincere sympathy, Dr. Luz Claudio Mount Sinai School of Medicine

I was just thinking of Steve today, before I heard of his passing. His work and how he saw the work of inquiry and relating and being alive, have so informed how I see and think about things. Today I was thinking of planning a conversation with Steve soon. But now that I know that can't be, I really treasure the talk we did get to have.

Steve was such a warm and fun person and I'm grateful to have known him. I live in Tillery and met Steve there some years ago. There aren't many who can claim to be as brilliant an academic and at home in the country with everyday people. I know you're all proud of the legacy he leaves behind. He was a consistently warm person who was always there with a hug and a smile. Steve was able to deal with even the most difficult people with grace while holding on to his firm belief in what's right. I thank God for having him around to fight the good fight as long as he was able, for his teaching in his own way, and his tremendous respect for the communities he worked with. NEVER have I seen Steve behave in a condescending manner as many others in his position have. You wouldn't know that he was from "the holy trinity" (LOL!) if it wasn't written somewhere on a program. I will miss seeing him and especially miss hearing him play the piano from way down in his soul!! Thanks y'all, for sharing him with us. Kathy Whitaker Knight

Our Steven will always be a TOP HERO and inspiration for me...and his questions and big vision about all the things we do not yet understand about radiation's impact on living organisms remind me always to keep an open mind and sound science-based methodology. I will continue to carry him in my heart. --Mary Olson, Nuclear Information and Resource Service

To dear Steve's family - Steve was my housemate in Wappinger Falls the year after graduating from Vassar, along with Sam Magee, Mark Herbert and various others along the way. We are deeply saddened by the news of Steve's passing. Personally I am so grateful to have visited with him in 2013 while attending a conference at UNC. It was then that we caught each other up on decades of life, and I learned of his amazing and inspiring career that he related to me in his humble way, and the good news of his grandfatherhood. I have been in touch with the group of Vassar friends and we are grieving our beloved Steve. Love to you all.

Dear Betsy, Ann and Marion, In his last email to me, Steve wrote: “…I couldn’t have more support from Betsy and family and community. Please don’t be sad about me. Thinking about the vastness of nature and human history, none of us are here for long. We are small. Our western culture fools us into focusing on ourselves and denying the only think without which life would not be possible – death. …” You lost your beloved husband and your father, my heartfelt condolences. Steve was my dear friend, colleague and comrade. We taught together, laughed together, supported each other - although I am sure I received more than I could give – and we talked regularly about many issues. Not being sad, as Steve asked, is impossible but I am working on it. Thinking of fond memories that warm my heart helps. Feeling grateful to have known and loved Steve helps. Remaining inspired by Steve’s courage, honesty, humanity, caring and intellect, helps. I can only wish you strength and as a family find solace in knowing how much Steve has given also to us.

I'm so sad to hear about your loss. With love and happiness in my heart I will always remember you guys. I wish you all the best. The memories of Steve cooking and playing music always brings a smile to my face. That is his legacy. Smiles and happiness. I hope that the pain of your loss fades quickly in to the smiles that will forever be his memory. I love the wings as many do.

I just heard about this sad loss to the Environmental Health community.. of Prof Steve Wing of Epidemiology from UNC Chapel Hill losing his battle with cancer. While I was applying to grad schools, Dr Wing had kindly spoke with me about his passion for his work on farm feed operations and affected vulnerable communities, & I considered doing my PhD on health effects of agricultural waste with him as an advisor (A PhD in health effects of 'pig poop' had a certain ring to it). From that short conversation, I felt inspired by his integrity, personable candor and big-hearted passion for the health for all. May we as researchers strive to emulate the teachings of this mighty soul in our own work. Rest in peace. And, thinking of those close to him. Linda Dix-Cooper, Environmental Health Scientist, Vancouver BC

I had the privilege of working with Dr. Wing in connection with a case in which I was one of lawyers representing the plaintiffs. The case involved the former Rocky Flats nuclear weapons plant in Colorado and involved releases of plutonium onto neighboring lands. Dr. Wing testified at the trial in 2005-06. He was both incredibly knowledgeable and thoughtful. The jury plainly loved him. I was saddened to hear of his passing and wish to convey my condolences to his family and friends. --David F. Sorensen (Philadelphia PA)

Dear Betsy, Ann and Marion, I never met you, but I first met Steve in Brazil in 1994 where we were both talking about environmental justice. I have only just seen this very sad news, as I now live in the Andes still working on environmental justice, but also trying to put into practice something Steve always believed in.. around coherence of words and actions. In the years that followed our first meeting, I came to North Carolina and Steve came and talked in the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine - as always about our role as epidemiologists and our responsibilities as humans. On a bus ride back from visiting Marx's grave (and all the anarchists around him) in Highgate, we were talking about the pride and ego of academia. He quoted Mark Twain "It is better to deserve honors and not have them than to have them and not deserve them". I was privileged to have known Steve - he was a truly honourable human being. Carolyn Stephens (LSHTM and Universidad Nacional de Tucumán, Argentina)