I received word last night that our friend Jim Dowden passed away unexpectedly on Saturday. I know many RxTrace readers knew him in one capacity or another. See his obituary here. Most recently Jim was Head of Logistics Management, North America for Genentech. When I first met him back in the mid-2000’s he worked for Hoffman-La Roche and represented them at various industry ePedigree and track & trace meetings. For a period of time I ran into Jim fairly often and we had some great conversations.
As I knew him, Jim was a very open and expressive person who was always ready for a good laugh. He was razor-sharp, quick witted and not afraid to get to the point of the matter. To me, he was fearless and a fun guy to be around. I remember listening in on the webcast of the FDA Track and Trace Workshop last year when Jim’s unmistakable voice came through my speakers during one of the input periods. “When would you like that by?”, he asked rhetorically. The room erupted. Jim had already made the point that many in the room were still trying to formulate in their minds. Classic.
I will miss Jim. He left this earth way too early.
Dirk.
My sorrow and condolences. A reminder to live life–which I think he did.
Lew Kontnik
It was a privilege to know and work with Jim. He made every meeting, workshop, and conference a much better experience and will be dearly missed!
Dirk,
I remember having dinner one night with you and Jim at a PDA/FDA meeting a few years ago. It seems we are a community all working tirelessly in our own ways to make the supply chain safer.
Jim was a passionate warrior. He always framed issues well and often articulated them in a homey, usually funny way that connected well with those he addressed.
His energy and insights will be sorely missed by all of us that knew him,
Steve
Dirk,
It was nice for you to recognize our dear friend Jim Dowden. One final note for closure, the ceremony for Jim in Sparta NJ was an incredible fitting a way to celebrate Jim’s life. His was so loved by the community, his colleagues and most importantly his family. His family’s tribute to him was very touching and I feel honored to have known Jim and was able to say good bye with those close to him.
RIP Jim
Steve
I had the pleasure of knowing Jim and Marilyn during my time at IU. Great friend and always a joy to be around. I know his family misses him terribly. My sincere sympathy. Jim Bunnell IU MBA 1979