Jack Keene was a monumental personage in biosafety, years of experience, yet straightforward, instructive, personal, and encouraging.  I met Jack in 1997 and encountered him numerous times since then in the biosafety field.  I enjoyed engaging him and hearing his stories.  It was always a pleasure. He will be missed.

I have had the privilege and pleasure of knowing Jack since we started Graduate School together in 1979 at UNC in Chapel Hill.  In all aspects of his life that I have known, he was one of the most genuine, authentic, sincere, truthful, honest, kind souls I have ever known.  He also had a terrific sense of humor.  He was so very proud of all of his children.  Now he is with Joanne and Nana.

I had the pleasure of knowing John from 1988 on. He was my mentor, companion, friend, and at times -- courage -- during a time in my life when I returned to school for an MS degree following a career of service to the Army and the loss of my wife.  Few men can fill the shoes of one's friend, mentor, and confidente at such times, yet he was that and more to me.  He changed my life.