Michel Charles Oksenberg passed away on 22 February 2001 after an eight-month battle with cancer.

Mike was determined to face his disease with dignity, optimism and activism, and he did all three. Until shortly before the end, he continued to pen articles, to advise students, to give media interviews, to take part in academic panels and to mobilize support on Asian policy issues. He also communicated frequently with colleagues and friends by phone and e-mail. Mike drew great strength from these contacts, and they comforted those of us who were deeply affected by his illness. He was, until the end, a life force.