GMF Statement on Passing of Rep. Jim Kolbe

The GMF family is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former Arizona congressman and former senior transatlantic fellow, Jim Kolbe. 

After leaving Congress in 2007, Jim focused his time at GMF on transatlantic trade and development policy. Much of his prescient work continues to be of great relevance to GMF today, whether that is supporting a modern Marshall Plan for Ukraine or reducing today’s trade frictions related to transatlantic economic competitiveness.  

Jim worked particularly closely with GMF’s long-standing partner, the Government of Sweden. He co-chaired GMF’s Transatlantic Taskforce on Development with former Swedish Development Minister Gunilla Carlsson and convened a transatlantic taskforce on trade and investment with former Swedish Trade Minister Ewa Björling. 

“Jim’s professional life was a reflection of what he truly loved: serving his country, advocating tirelessly for the importance of our European allies to US foreign policy and development goals, and mentoring the next generation of leaders. GMF and the transatlantic relationship greatly benefitted from Jim’s passion and his ever-present smile and optimism. He will be sorely missed, and our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with his husband, Hector, and his family and friends”, says GMF President Heather A. Conley.