Hello Karen,

From: "Rose_eu, Jon - eSpeed"
Date: Fri, 21 Sep 2001 10:17:28 +0100

Karen and Zachary

Just to introduce myself, I work for eSpeed and have done for almost the last year since Rich hired me, I work in the London office.  I also worked at Natwest Markets and Bankers Trust.  I first got to know Rich at Natwest when I was working late and he came over and introduced himself, I think it was about 11pm.  He always used to work late, but this was just after he had started, since the first time I talked to him I found him instantly likeable and the more I worked for him, the more I respected and liked him.

I deeply wish there was something that I could say or do that would ease your grief through this difficult time.  My sense of loss and grief at these terrible events must be nothing next to your own.  My thoughts have been with you and Zachary over the past 10 days and my main hope now is that in time you both can manage to find yourselves again.  Nothing can ever be same again, but going through the grief will allow you to carry on knowing that your life will forever be enriched by having known him.

I have had lots of jobs in my life and without a shadow of a doubt Rich was the best person I have had the honour of working with.  He made things simple for us, it was easy for us to do well when working with him.  He helped us see things so that everything was possible and achievable. We all grew and developed under his guidance, and he gave us the knowledge and facilities to help us all grow.  He was so incredibly resourceful, creative and intelligent, all in all such a unique person, I know that his loss will still be felt amongst his colleagues both past an present for many years to come.

He had an ability to give everybody so much attention and assistance and he always knew what everybody was doing and how they were getting along.  He always seemed to care about everybody so much and if every they had problems then there was nothing that he would not do to help them.  He offered a young man who knew too much for his own good, a lot in the way of advice and assistance, eventually I started to take some of his advise.

I know, from what we talked about when he was over here and the things he did, how much he cared about both of you.  I felt guilty for working for him and taking up his time and attention especially when his visits over here seemed to occur at such inopportune times for you both.  Valentines day, your anniversary, etc. 

I would like to write again when I have had more time to get to grips myself with what has gone on, and to properly convey my thoughts and memories.  I do not know if I can come to the memorial service, but my prayers will be with yourself and Zachary.

I would like to send something through the post to you both, but I do not have your new address, if you could let me know that then I would be very grateful, but I will not be offended if you do not wish to give it out. 

Being in London I do not know what assistance I can be, but should there ever be anything that I can do for you or Zachary then please let me know.  I personally owe Rich a massive debt of gratitude for how he helped me through the years far more that I was ever able to repay in the time I knew him.  and you should feel free to call upon me at any time.

Take care

Jon Rose