Past International Director Kenneth Persson (2012-2014) died on Nov. 1, 2022 after a long battle with cancer. A Lion since 1986, the late Past Director Persson was a member of the Sweden "Be the Change” Lions Club. He held many offices within the association, including GMT coordinator and area leader, multiple district LCIF chairperson, and multiple district Leo chairperson. In recognition of his dedication and service to the association, he received numerous awards including a 25-, 30- and 35-Year Monarch Chevron, nine International President’s Awards and the Ambassador of Good Will Award, the highest honor the association bestows upon its members. He was also a multi-level Progressive Melvin Jones Fellow. PID Persson was extremely proud of his daughters and efforts to support Dr. Denis Mukwege and the Hospital Panzi in Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo. Over the years, his association and friendship grew with Dr. Mukwege who became the 2018 Nobel Peace Prize and the Lions Humanitarian Award winner. The past director enjoyed a successful career holding different management positions with several international transport corporations. He also managed his own firm within corporate education.  In June, Past Director Persson was well enough to attend the MD 105 Convention in Falun and posted how happy he was to be with the Lions. He wrote about his struggles with cancer in his blog, and at the oncology ward the staff fondly called him Mr. Sunshine because he spent his time spreading cheer to others who were having a difficult time.