Dear IUFRO Division 2 Colleague, I was just informed of the death of Victor Steenackers of Belgium, a most beloved colleague who championed poplar around the world. Victor's daughter Marijke has provided us with his obituary as well as his picture. Victor was an accomplished scientist, the consummate gentleman, and a good friend. We will all miss him dearly. Brian J. Stanton IUFRO Coordinator, Working Party 2.08.04, Poplar and Willow Genetics Managing Director, Tree Improvement Group GreenWood Resources 1500 S. W. First Avenue, Suite 940 Portland, Oregon 97204 tel: 971-533.7052 email: brian.stanton(a)gwrglobal.com