Mentor, Partner, Friend, and Model - John Charles Krysa (1953 - 2023)
John Krysa, past President and Chair of the ICRM, passed away on February 5, 2023 after a year-long fight with cancer. If you knew John, you will probably say he was your “mentor” in some shape or form. He was a mentor and coach to many us, generously imparting his knowledge. In return, he was always wanting to learn something from us as well. He was certainly a mentor to me as we worked closely together during our terms of office on the Board of Regents of the ICRM.
During his term of office, he led the way, along with the ICRM Executive Committee and Business Manager to successfully move to a new technology partner needed to take the ICRM into the future. This project was more than a year in the making. In addition, he participated on the Exam Development Committee (EDC) to assist in updating the CRM examination and he spearheaded the creation of the Federal Specialist (FED) designation. John also worked with members of the Board of Regents to create ICRM’s Strategic Alliance Committee (SAC), draft guidelines for the committee, and served as its first Chair. John supported SACs partnerships with academic partners that led to engagement not only of different educational institutions but also empowered their students just entering the RIM profession.
John was a true friend and we kept in touch with each other from the time we started our work on the ICRM board until the day before he entered hospice. He had a positive outlook throughout his illness and sent pictures of himself getting chemo with a smile and a thumbs up. Incredible!
John’s legacy will live on as a model for us. His life and career were many faceted having served in the armed forces, worked as a consultant and served in a government agency. His many experiences gained around the world paved the way for his strong work ethic, integrity and mentoring abilities. Just before John passed, he made a monetary donation to the ICRM. He also asked that in lieu of flowers donations may be made in his name to ICRM. I hope you will consider this.
Rest in Peace, John Charles Krysa!
By Cheryl L. Pederson, FAI, CRM Retired
John Krysa – Mentor, Colleague, and Friend. I had the honor to serve on the ICRM Board of Regents with John. I always admired his leadership and class. For example, John took the time to send emails and handwritten letters of congratulations and encouragement even after my board service ended. Along the way, we became friends. I got to see some of the things he was proud of: photos of his family, hobbies, and church project. My life is richer for knowing John. Peace, my friend.
Wendy McLain, CRM
The Federal Specialist Exam Development Committee wishes to recognize John’s dedication to the records management profession, and especially his enduring legacy overseeing the development of the Federal Specialist credential. John identified that the role of a records manager in the Federal government required specialized skills and unique knowledge that extended beyond what was tested in the CRM exam. He also wanted to unite the Federal records management community because of the important role they play in serving the people of the United States with sound recordkeeping. He had the energy and vision to spearhead this credential and pulled together a strong group of contributors to help him see it through. He was a fun, industrious leader who always had a story to tell.
We will continue, in his memory, to make the Federal Specialist exactly what John intended it to be.
Respectfully,
Debbie and Margie
On behalf of the Federal Specialist Committee
John and I served together on the ICRM board during a period of significant change. During this time, the Board of Regents examined every facet of the institute and embarked on a journey to re-structure the board, improve our member and applicant experience, and develop strategic partnerships with learning institutions and other organizations. John’s ICRM presidency came at just the right time to help spark the fulfilment of partnerships that had been dreamed of for many years in the organization.
You always knew where John stood on an issue. He was upfront and candid and made sure that the impact of decisions were considered before finalized.
On a personal note, I fondly remember our adventures at Walt Disney World (who other than John would order a side of green beans as a snack to walk around with at Magic Kingdom?), Downtown Disney in Anaheim and many, many board dinners over the years. I always appreciated the handwritten cards, or the out of the blue calls or emails just to check in.
John fiercely loved his family, church and the RIM profession. His contributions will be remembered. He will be dearly missed.
Laurie Carpenter, CRM, IGP
Former Regent Exam Administration & Grading and Former Regent Certification Maintenance
I enjoyed working with John during my time on the board. He was a true professional. I always loved hearing about his many trips with his lovely wife. I hope he was able to complete most of his bucket list of trips. My condolences to the family and RIM community.
Paula Sutton, CRM
