I knew Chip from my days at BGP. He was always doing business/great friends with my boss, and whenever he’d call we’d talk and joke for 20 minutes before he’d get down to business. We shared the same sarcastic, sometimes evil humor and by the time we were done faux insulting each other, it was almost embarrassing. In the last five years or so, we started talking again – can’t recall exactly how that started but it was such a joy for me. We’d go months with no contact and then talk maybe three times in the same week.  What we had in common was our love of our kids. He was so smart and inquisitive and we both really enjoyed just shooting the breeze. Twenty years ago, I had told him a story about a friend telling me that his ‘comfort zone’ was challenged and Chip never forgot it after all that time. Every time he called he would start with “how’s your comfort zone?”. I miss him so much and always will. Much love to his family and loved ones.

I haven’t had to deal with a loss as great as this in my life, and I don’t really know how to. I know saying thank you through a letter can’t begin to show you the compassion and admiration I have for you. That in itself, is beyond what words can say. But like you always told me, take it one step at a time. Thank you for being a more than a mentor to me, but an amazing friend. You always challenged, encouraged and supported me. What a blessing it was that you gave me the time of day you did, and then some. Every conversation we had about life, music, and everything in between is something I will continue to cherish. I’m so thankful for those wonderful times we had. I remember the first time we had a one-on-one. It was in New York in the Paradigm office where you got me my first college internship interview, and I was sure that I failed my interview the day prior to our meeting. I remember coming back and walking into your office the next day. When I opened the door and sat down, you were