It is with deep regret that I pass along this message.   Our good friend and mentor, Edilith P. Eckhart, died quietly in her sleep at the age of 84.   Edilith was a long time member of Veterans for Peace Chapter 56 of Humboldt Bay, the ACLU, WILPF, and numerous peace and justice organizations over the years.    Edilith was a World War II veteran and honorably served her country during a time of great struggle.   For numerous years, she traveled the world in pursuit of justice and peace in the world.

Edilith made many trips to Russia, Israel and Iraq.   Edilith traveled to Israel a number of times to visit with the original Women in Black. She helped begin the local Women in Black movement on the Arcata Plaza.  Edilith served with distinction as a former member of the Veterans for Peace Board of Directors, and served as President of the Board of Directors for a time.  Edilith was a recepient of the VFP Presidents' Medal.

Edilith was a Co-Founder of the VFP Iraq Water Project.   As such, she was instrumental in sending several delegations of VFP members to Iraq to repair water treatment facilities.   Indeed, the VFP Iraq Water Project would not exist without her vision, astute understanding of world events, and the charisma and enthusisam to make things happen.  We here on the North Coast of California have lost a great treasure.  Edilith Eckhart  will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.