It is with a deep sense of sadness that we must confirm the news that our friend, long-time member, and former leader of the team, [SF]Hairy, passed away Wednesday following a brief struggle with cancer. Having been a member since circa 1998 and the Supreme Commander of the team from circa 2000 until 2008, Hairy was a profoundly excellent leader, mentor, and friend to anyone who met him, and whose many accomplishments here form the foundation of the modern team organization.
Hailing from the Melbourne, Australia area, Hairy was integral to the transformation of Team Special Forces from its roots as a prominent large team in the game of Tanarus that he so strongly enjoyed to a thriving multi-game community with hundreds of members. Through his thoughtful and principled leadership, he garnered the respect of the officers who were privileged to serve under him, and his vision for a better gaming community continues to inspire us.
Being one of the elder members of the team, he was a source of wisdom and direction in uncertain times. Although he had been semi-retired from the team for several years, those who remember him from his active period in the team will undoubtedly remember his suave, definitively Australian voice which so often acted as a calming influence amidst troubled waters. Even today, team leaders reflect on his actions as a guide for how to conduct themselves.