Think Regeneration writes:

“In the two minute clip above, you will get an intimate picture of Ronnie Cummins, and the unique way he could teach others about the mindset of a regenerative leader.

In this clip, the co-founder of the Organic Consumers Association and Regeneration International sat on stage in 2017 with Acres USA’s long-time owner, Fred Walters, who asked Vandana Shiva, and André Leu, a question about “How, in the face of all you see, do you stay positive and happy?” at the end of the keynote presentation at the Eco-Ag Conference & Trade Show. I was leaning against the wall in awe of the conversation on stage, and Ronnie truly brought it home with his answer.

Like he was prone to do, Ronnie made us think, and then made us laugh. And then he gave us hope.

Here’s what he said in 2017:

“I don’t feel the least bit tired you, know. But I think there’s a I think there’s an inner planetary force out there that when you get opened up to it, you get this strength, and it makes you smile all the time. And I believe that we can tap into this force and that will make us invincible. You know, it’s hard to always feel that force—that solidarity that compassion that whatever it is—I don’t know exactly what it is—but most of the time it’s there. And this is a big universe—we don’t understand what’s going on totally, we don’t understand where it came from or where it’s going or everything in it, but I think it’s worthwhile trying to cultivate personal health. You know, mental and physical, and getting out in nature, and being in contact with beauty and the sacredness of it all, and maybe the sacred herbs, too, I mean I’ve always been a believer in the sacred herbs, but that’s why I’m a happy guy.

“I mean, I’m going to die at some point, but hopefully not before we won. But I actually think I’m going to come back in some form. I’m not sure what it is, but I’m going to come back to enjoy the fruits of my labor and all of our labor, so I look forward to seeing you in any of those forms.”

While he died last week of cancer, his legacy should be known through the regenerative movement. We can thank him for helping create healthier foods for millions of people and teaching thousands of farmers how to grow organically. His impact was generational, {and} enormous.

Ronnie was a fierce believer in individual freedom. He was controversial in his beliefs about the Covid vaccine, and was not afraid to call out the large corporate polluters for their lack of care for humanity. Yet, through all his writings and teaching, the thread of kindness and the connectedness of life, was consistent.”

Read: Ronnie’s Official Obituary (Read the comments!)

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“Ronnie was a pioneer in highlighting the necessity of organic regenerative farming and foods to counter the negative impact on human health from shortsighted agricultural practices driven by chemical industry greed.

“Ronnie and I worked side-by-side as allies for most of the last 40 years. He had a clear vision about the links between environmental degradation, the subversion of democracy and the dangerous rise of corporate power.

“His buoyant optimism about human nature and the resilience of our planet always energized me, even in the face of the most disheartening defeats. His indefatigable spirit, humor and his merciless work ethic enabled him to educate and inspire multiple generations of environmental warriors to pursue a healthy lifestyle and to demonstrate the courage to speak out against growing industrial ravages to our environment.”

– Robert F Kennedy Jr.

“Ronnie was everything this write-up says – and so much more. I worked for Ronnie and his wife, Rose, for nine years. We forged a lifelong friendship. But he treated me more like family than an employee or a friend. Ronnie was a visionary, whose irrepressible hope for the future was informed by his deep knowledge and understanding of history. He captivated crowds, speaking at length without a single note or prompt, the facts and figures just flowed. Rarely did his speeches not end in a standing ovation. I had the good fortune to be able to travel to faraway places with Ronnie. Everywhere he went, he inspired — and was energized by — others, but especially the young people. Long after people half his age had retired for the night, Ronnie would be singing and playing guitar into the wee hours of the morning. Yet when morning came around, he was the first one up, sipping his coffee, scanning the headlines . . . and plotting his next project. His slow, southern drawl belied an inexhaustible energy. Ronnie was inclusive. Generous. Fearless when it came to speaking truth to power. But most of all, he was authentic to the bone. The highest compliment he bestowed on others was to call them “the real deal.” Ronnie should know — he lived a life unequivocally committed to seeking justice and confronting those on the wrong side of it — no matter how powerful. No one person can step in and take his place — but together, an army of passionate revolutionaries can carry forward his life’s work. That, in the end, is the only way to honor his legacy.”

– Katherine Paul

“I’m still in shock and deeply saddened by his passing. Ronnie was a genius, a brilliant mind, an inspirational leader, and a strongly principled change agent who promoted regenerative organic agriculture and fought against corruption and corporate greed. He was a wonderful and very close friend. I’ll miss him.”

– Andre Leu

“I met Ronnie, decades ago, in the very early stages of the struggle to protect our food supply, our planet, from genetically engineered contaminates. Was lucky enough to be able to host him (and Rose too) at my little casita in an agricultural neighborhood, just south of Albuquerque. What wonderful discussions we had; always over great healthy food, perfectly spiced with delicious commaradrie and laughter. One couldn’t help but immediately recognize, what an incredibly, extraordinary person he was, with his deep embrace of our interconnectedness. And what a magnificently active mind, always quick to see beyond the horizon, to the next goal, the next way to expand the work, another way to bring people and issues together.

I have been honored to be on the OCA advisory board since those early years and call Ronnie a friend and a dear brother in the work. Ronnie’s spirit is and will always be an abiding inspiration. Now that he is part of a higher power, I can’t help but feel he will be looking after us, as we continue his work, our work, of making a more just, peace in the world.

I love you Ronnie—you live in my heart!”

– Robin Seydel

“A true friend and partner, Ronnie Cummins is a legend.“

– Dr. Joesph Mercola

“My friend and colleague Ronnie Cummins passed away from lymph and bone cancer at age 77. I can’t think of anybody I held in higher esteem. Ronnie and I worked together on numerous advocacy projects. He was a true friend. I am so going to miss you, brother.”

– David Steinman

“It was in the 1990s on a long drive through Canada that I heard Ronnie for the first time on the radio. I remember my reaction to his talk because he was so truthful and disarming and that I must remember his name and find out more about him. He gave me a sense of hope, which I needed at that time, that there were other people “out there” speaking the truth. Several years later Ronnie became very helpful to group I was working with, the Fluoride Action Network. Thank you Ronnie for everything you have done to make our world a better place to live.”

– Ellen Connett

“Ronnie was a mentor, teacher, and friend. Two summers ago. while he was visiting western North Carolina, I was lucky enough to be asked to be Ronnie’s “driver“ for a couple of days as he met with colleagues, friends & OCA supporters. Not only did Ronnie teach me about regenerative farming and his agave project but he shared tips on the best ways to grow & raise funds for our 501(c) 3. I was like a student at the feet of a master soaking up all his advice and wisdom, True to his nature, we also had some good laughs and in the evening we toasted the blessings of this life with a wee bit of a very nice tequila.

I consider Ronnie to be one of the greatest leaders of the health, freedom & awakened activists Movement. He stood for freedom. He fought for justice, and he lived each day appreciating the gifts of Mother Nature. I feel blessed I had that time with Ronnie . I will never forget him.”

– Maura McDonnell – MAMM

– Rebelle Wisdom (Kathy Mackey)

“Ronnie Cummins and his team stepped up as an early champion of Our Family Farms coalition and with his support Jackson County Oregon is today a gmo free seed sanctuary. His enthusiasm was contagious, his integrity beyond reproach. One of the few folks I have placed on a pedestal as a teacher and a role model for living a purpose filled life. Thank you Ronnie and Rest in Peace from all of us at Our Family Farms.”

– Anne Golden – Our Family Farms

“Ronnie always said, the best reason to join the movement is because it’s the best way to live… I joined Organic Consumers Association because of Ronnie… the camaraderie he created, his vision… he filled us with purpose, strength & determination, he kept us hopeful & inspired“

– Alexis Baden-Mayer

“There are a few people that have inspired me to do the work I do, Ronnie Cummins is one of them. I loved this man who made such a difference in this world. He inspired me and was my first exposure to Organic Regenerative Farming. Organic Consumers Association inspired me to start Food Integrity Now. He cared so deeply about our health and was a pioneer in the GMO education. He led the way for many of us. He will be greatly missed but his legacy to improve the health and well-being of this earth and humanity will live on. RIP Ronnie Cummins!”

– Carol Grieve

“I was shocked to read about Ronnie’s death this morning! Ronnie’s work has been invaluable to my work over the decades, in the early years fighting GMOs, right up until the present moment. His perspective, his Earthy connection, his integrity were unquestioned. I relied on information and research from him and OCA frequently, and knew, regardless of who I was up against, that I could trust him and OCA. This is a huge loss, and the only fitting thing to do is to continue the struggle for Earth, for Life, for sanity and the future.”

– Susan Meeker-Lowry

“Warrior, Visionary, Leader, Amigo, World changer, Elder Brother, Collaborator, Dutch farmer, Hippie, Radical Idealist, Oracle…. Just a few words to describe the legendary Ronnie Cummins, International Director of the Organic Consumers Association who sadly left us this week. Ronnie, amigo, soar with the eagles and we will listen out for your guidance.”

– Alliance for Natural Health International

“His authenticity and tireless advocacy has inspired me for at least 2 decades. He made such an impact and opened the eyes of so many of us. He contributed to the spiritual ascension evolution that has been growing exponentially throughout the human collective, as we cannot evolve without a healthy reciprocal relationship with Gaia. His Spirit team must have called him home because it is time for all of us he inspired to carry forward what we learned. We will extend the webwork of thriving he envisioned and co-created. Good journey home brother, and rest easy in the peace and light for awhile.”

– Sky Yeager

“OCA Member. I wrote a letter to Ronnie about a year ago. Shortly thereafter he replied with a personal phone call to me that lasted for an hour. It was a great thrill for me. Have written hundreds of letters to my D C legislators, over the years and 0 personal response. The call from Ronnie will last in my memory forever.”

– David Lindig, Fergus Falls, MN

“Few people in our lives have been as impactful and inspirational on so many levels as Ronnie Cummins. At least a small part of his tireless and relentless efforts on behalf of people and planet continues on through the many people like me who he touched deeply. Our condolences to Ronnie’s family and to his work family. Ronnie, you were a force, a champion who made the world a better place, and you will be sorely missed. Forever in our hearts.”

– Diana Reeves, Executive Director of GMO/Toxin Free USA

“There are a few people who are born to lead heroic lives and Ronnie was one of them. From my earliest days as an activist, I looked to the impeccable standard he set as a benchmark, a guide. He was fiercely honest, devoted to sharing the best data that could be uncovered, courageous in the face of an ever-changing political climate, and so deeply heartfelt in his unwavering passion for ensuring the wellbeing of people/animals/the earth. I never had the honor of meeting him in person, but he influenced my path over and over again and my gratitude for his service to humanity, to this planet, knows no bounds. I send wishes for peace and comfort to his family and friends in the midst of their grief at his loss, as the evidence flows in regarding how far his influence extended around the globe and how their support helped him remain the hero, the leader, that he was (and remains by example). Mahalo Nui Loa forever…”

– Sherilyn Wells

“The twinkling heavens have become brighter with the addition of Ronnie Cummins. He has been a bright light and a strong voice in a much needed world filled with lies and deception. He has been a friend and mentor to many. His teachings will continue to nurture all those who seek to support the healing of Mother Earth for many generations. I send out blessings to all who had the privilege of Ronnie’s company. Wishing you all gentle days ahead. All My Relations.”

– Grant Waldman – North Okanagan, BC, Canada

“Pan African CANOPS Green Carpet Collective (c) followed Ronnie since many years as spiritual Peer in Climate Active National Organic Permaculture – in mourning.  Four Million Organic Farmers in 14 African Countries are sharing with Ronnie pro Memoria the 2019 UNGA SDG Pioneers Award”

– Paul Ketterer Curator

“The world has lost a bright light. May each of us touched by him burn just a bit brighter with his inspiration and knowledge.”

– Ardath Albizo

“I met Ronnie at a gathering of progressive food activists some 15 years ago — and that conversation remains vivid in my memory. His energy, passion, and humor, left an indelible mark. We rarely saw each other in person after that, but I will miss him deeply. Thank you, Ronnie, for all that you gave to make this world better.”

– Judith McGeary

“I am in deep grief that we lost our amazingly beautiful and talented Ronnie Cummins. Such a leader is not an everyday man but unique to this world, willing to stick his neck out and show up fully for what he believed in. I met Ronnie in 2019 at the Global Earth Repair Conference but had followed his work for likely 20 years prior. He has been and continues to be my hero and shining light for remembering to pay attention to what is happening and to stand up for what is right. You will be mightily missed dear friend. May you continue to help from afar! We will be calling on you!”

– Katheryn Lafond

“I never met or heard Ronnie speak, yet he was an important part of my world, making it brighter, full of enthusiastic hope for creative positive change. His radiant spirit spanned the world with brotherly love and activism, and surely he will shine and work even more strongly now. I will miss him, and look to find him anew, with his signature style working through those who carry his legacy. Thank you Ronnie for generously sharing your life and love with all of us.”

– Guadalupe Munoz

“What a power of good Ronnie Cummins has done in his life! I became aware of him through my involvement in the organic community in Aotearoa New Zealand over the last decade or two. During my time as editor of Organic NZ magazine I really appreciated the OCA newsletters with their burning issues and Ronnie’s staunchness in championing all things organic and good for the planet. What a great leader he was, and a brilliant example of someone who acted on his convictions for a better world. May we all pick up and run with the batons of his work, carrying them far and wide to heal the planet and humanity. Peace, blessings, good food, good company, good music, heart and soul of nature.”

– Philippa Jamieson

“I always knew I could depend on Ronnie to be true to the causes we hold dear. When I led Sierra Club on the GMO issue – writing letters to the editor together and sharing action alerts – Ronnie was such a blessing. Keep guiding us from that place where you are, Ronnie.”

– Laurel Hopwood

“I have always been in awe of this man; his work and his outlook. I am just another human who cares about the planet and the way the corporations are trying to kill us all with their poisons. People like Ronnie who take up the fight against these monsters are doing so for people like me, and others who never met Ronnie. But we all benefit from his work. Thank God for people like him who fight the Goliaths. I will go back out to my organic garden and plant some flowers and vegetables in his honor. Rest in Peace, we were strangers but your legacy touched me. My condolences to his family and those who loved him.”

– Lisa Overton

“Epic times we shared with activist and author Ronnie Cummins, he showed us that we all can confront monsters like Monsanto and we will continue his legacy. Ronnie Cummins Presente!!”

– Soil Not Oil Coalition

“Ronnie was a force of nature, a visionary warrior for the fundamental rights of the earth & all living beings. His passionate rejection of degenerative food & farming methods was always inspiring. We were honoured to include him in The Seeds of Vandana Shiva.”

– Becket Films

“Ronnie came to speak (for free) at the first conference of our organization Biodiversity for a Liveable Climate in 2014, and gave us a high-energy inspirational talk on how to organize a movement. He was drawing on many years of experience and I still value what he taught us. Ronnie went over his allotted time, and hey Ronnie, it’s OK.”

– Brian Cartwright

“I just read of Ronnie’s passing and still numb with shock. I only knew him through his OCA newsletters. I was often amazed at the depth of his passion, and the dedication and energy which he seemed to carry into all of his work. And I was grateful for his vision and leadership in OCA and sustainable farming. Mother Teresa said “I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples.” Wow, Ronnie! Look at all the ripples you created and all the lives you have touched! Thank you for your lifetime of service to humanity and our Mother Earth.”

– Judy Kasper

“Such a loss to our community, to the world. Ronnie constantly inspired me to do more, to learn more, to share more about our food, to question, to research. We have lost a great voice, an unwavering champion of this earth, a warrior in all the highest forms of that word. Although we never met in the physical form, I looked forward to each email and newsletter or book. I feel I have lost an old and dear friend. I trust he will carry on for us from the next dimension. Thank you, Ronnie.”

– Yvonne Scott

“There are not enough words to convey what a hero Ronnie was (is). He made the entire world aware of the unsustainable chemical agriculture system. Every person on this planet should be grateful for what Ronnie has accomplished. Rest In Peace dear friend.”

– Gary Saber

“Ronnie is someone that my soul connected with and I never even got to meet him in person. His beautiful mind understood life and love. He is still with us, just look around at all the good and you will “feel” his presence. I plan on meeting you someday Ronnie – in a perfect Organic World.”

– Mary  A Meyer

“I echo so much of what has been said here. Ronnie was a visionary and a true force of nature — what a huge loss to the movement and our community. I so deeply appreciated his passion, brilliance, dedication and vision and the leadership and partnership of OCA on so many fronts — from work on GMOs when I first met him more than 20 years ago to more recent campaigns fighting to protect people, pollinators and the planet from toxic pesticides. Grateful for all he brought to the world and inspired by his example to keep fighting for a healthy, just, and regenerative future for everyone. Sending my deepest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues. Rest in power Ronnie.”

– Lisa Archer

“I’m so saddened to hear about Ronnie’s passing and my heart goes out to you Rose, your son, and the OCA/RI family. If ever there was a person who walked the talk, it was Ronnie. I adored him. Not only did he have a brilliant mind, he was also a plain joy to be around. I’ll forever admire his unique style of rabble-rousing for movement building! And I’ll also forever be grateful for his generosity. He helped with the film we made about Vandana Shiva in all sorts of ways – all of which were significant. I’m confident that we’ll see the impacts of Ronnie’s work for generations to come and that the movements he started will continue to grow and thrive in his name. Here’s to you, Ronnie.”

– Camilla Becket

“Ronnie Caused a Ruckus

Ronnie was a rebel
A fearless rabblerouser
A writer and a rocker
A late-night talker

Ronnie seized moments
Ronnie made things happen
Ronnie told the People
How they could take Action

Save Organic Standards!
Sign this petition!
Label GMOs!
Take it to the nation!

From Finland, Minnesota
To sunny Mexico
Ronnie carried torches
And let us all know

Ronnie had a vision
A world of harmony
Ecological balance
Equals, you and me

Rest in peace, brother
We’ll carry on the cause
Environmental justice
Healthy food for all”

– Jim Riddle