On April 29, each of us received word that Burr Gibson had passed away. The individual who, for me, personified the standards, the values, and the reputation of our firm was no longer with us. The man who had served as colleague, teacher, and friend to many of us, at age 83, passed on the baton—with the clear expectation that his colleagues would continue to uphold the values and the mission that are the legacy from those who have preceded us in this firm.

Burr was gentle, kind and fair. He had a twinkle in his eye, a reassuring smile, and a wonderful sense of humor. He could offer constructive criticism in a manner that was empowering, not deflating. But always, he was uncompromising in the standards to which he held himself accountable—as well as those around him. If one was tempted to take a shortcut, or temporarily look the other way, in applying the ethical and moral standards he believed defined this firm, one would do so at his or her own peril.

Reflecting back on a 35-year friendship, I feel so privileged to have had the opportunity to know Burr; to have worked with him; and to have benefited so mightily from his wise counsel. He worked with some of the world's greatest nonprofit institutions. His knowledge, professionalism and wisdom earned him a reputation as a preeminent expert in our field. As a result of his leadership and visibility in the nonprofit world, he brought great distinction to Marts & Lundy and opened many doors for the rest of us in the firm.

We have much to celebrate in the life and accomplishments of Burr Gibson.

“I have long felt that one of Burr's great qualities was his acute ability to perceive—and then his rigorous insistence on pursuing—the really key issue(s) in the matter being considered and not succumbing to the inevitable and sometimes innumerable peripheral issues that could intrude upon a discussion. I believe this was of great benefit to his clients and was certainly of great benefit to all of us who had the privilege of working with him.”

— Ned Lees | Marts & Lundy

“A number of years ago I was given the privilege of serving my alma mater, Lake Forest College, as vice president for alumni and development at a rather young age. As we prepared for a campaign, one of my first moves was to engage Burr. He was so wise, so encouraging, and such a mentor. I will never forget his advice, counsel, and friendship. It was a deep source of confidence.”

— Fred Van Sickle | Columbia University

“Burr was our fundraising consultant for over a decade and his sage advice helped us through many minefields. We will miss his wealth of knowledge, good humor and friendship. It was a privilege to know him.”

— Brian Perronne and Linda Collier | Lucile Packard Foundation for Children's Health

“What I have always found to be the most interesting feature of my Papa is how he was always such a humble man. I found out about him receiving the CASE Lifetime Achievement Award and as I was congratulating him, he made it out to be no big deal. Even when he was being honored he was humble!”

— Cassie Gibson Sherry | Burr's granddaughter