RIP, Marsha Eidman (1951 - 2010)

I am sad to report that Marsha passed away Tuesday night, after a prolonged battle with various types of cancer. She fought long and hard, and remained positive, loving, and optimistic throughout the ordeal. She was 59 years old, and is survived by her son and his family, as well as her three brothers, other extended family, and several cherished pets.

I shared over a decade of my life with her, and feel blessed to have known her. She played a huge role in raising my son, and we shared many excellent adventures together. She will be missed.

Born and raised on a sheep ranch in California, Marsha was a lifelong lover of animals. Her father was a world-renowned sheep breeder, and performed sheep and wool judging all over the planet, including jobs in Iran, Australia, and at the National Western Stock Show here in Denver. Her brother Mark carried on his tradition after he died, and the other two brothers remained involved with animals and agriculture as well. Marsha never went back to ranching, but was always surrounded by pets...running the gamut from tarantulas to hedgehogs to all types of cats and dogs. When we were married, she also spent time raising mice, rats, and rabbits. And if that wasn't enough, she spent hundreds of hours volunteering at the Denver zoo to participate in the care and feeding of the various critters there.

Most of her career was spent with the US Fish and Wildlife Service, and she had a wide-ranging knowledge and appreciation for what it took to manage our country's animal resources. She sometimes became frustrated with some of the stupid rules she encountered within the bureacracy, but always performed her duties with pride in her country and a deep love for all its inhabitants, human and otherwise. She was unfailingly sweet and kind, and leaves behind a rich collection of friends and family who love her dearly.

Rest in peace, Marsha. We miss you.