We learn this weekend the sad news that Carolyn Kizer, a founding editor of Poetry Northwest, has passed away.

She touched many lives as a poet, mentor and friend, and we’d like to share with you a few recent pieces that sing her praises:

David Rigsbee recalls one telling moment with his friend and mentor and transforms another. Martha Silano appreciates Kizer’s “Pro Femina” and Katrina Roberts admires her singular voice. Former student Barbara Baldwin remembers her dignity and humor.

Our Spring & Summer 2011 print issue was devoted to a collective appreciation of Carolyn Kizer’s life and work, and we will share with you more from its pages here in the coming days. Read the first of these features here.