It is with the utmost sadness from our hearts that we inform the MARMAM community of the passing of Francisco (Xisco) Avellà on the 2nd of December 2025. Xisco was the driving force behind the Fondo Para la Foca del Mediterráneo (FFM), and a true pioneer in the study and conservastion of the Mediterranean monk seal. From Mallorca (Balearic Island, Spain) he promoted conservation and awareness projects at the end of the 20th century, helping to protect the last specimens of the western Mediterranean. His work marked a turning point in the preservation of this threatened species. Thanks to the commitment of Xisco and his collaborators, the FFM developed awareness campaigns and population-monitoring programmes along the coasts of Spain and North Africa. Xisco Avellà stands as an example of dedicated environmental activism, and his legacy continues to inspire those working today toward the recovery of this species' sub-populations. The entire monk seal community owes him a great debt for his extraordinary work, which began in the Balearic Islands during his teenage years. His premature departure leaves a void that will be difficult to fill. Luigi Bundone & Antoni Font -- Luigi Elio Alessandro Bundone PhD Archipelagos-ambiente e sviluppo, Italia Calle Asiago 4 (Sant'Elena) 30132 Venezia Università Ca' Foscari Venezia Mediterranean monk seal Expert/Pinniped Specialist Group/Species Survival Commission/IUCN