My giant, one among few, Chris Jarvi wanted us to only smile and celebrate his life. Those were his instructions just before passing on April 22, 2013. My early career was spent as one of his many staff members while we were planning and constructing the parks in the City of Anaheim.

To me, Chris was bigger than life. His visionary leadership was evident in the life he brought to everything he did, not in just small ways but in grand sweeping productions, speeches, smiles and his loud booming voice. But he always spoke from the heart and with honesty.

An example of this was the volunteer banquet he hosted annually as the Director of Community Services. It exemplified the scale and grand thinking he used to thank the community for their support. The banquet entertained > 400 people at the Convention Center. There was a fascinating stage show every year, with a different theme, Vanna White (known to us as Bridgette – a friend) and formal tuxedos and gowns.

He had great sense of humor; he once gave the press his Superintendent’s name when an incriminating photo was taken his golfing skills. Chris was photographed while on his back with legs and arms in the air, laughing his head off because he missed the swing entirely – told the press his name was Jack Kudron! Yes, it was in the paper the next day. Jack never did get even with him for that, :-).

When most people retire after a career, Chris went on to become the Associate Director of Partnerships for the National Park Service in Washington DC. Several days after his passing, the The Christopher K. Jarvi Partnership Scholarship Program was founded, in his memory, by the Foundation for Sustainable Parks and Recreation.

I know for certain that to say Chris had an influence on my life would not be saying enough. He helped weave the fabric of my professional skills, and he became a friend through the sincerity of his care. I will miss Chris and always be happy for the shadow he cast; it was as big as a giant.