Bitcoin Magazine
Honoring the Legacy of Patricia Trompeter
A notable advantage of my previous position was the privilege of utilizing a yacht in FiDi over the summer months—many referred to it as business development. The first encounter I had with Patti was unforgettable; she boldly made her way onto the boat. I was unfamiliar with who she was at the time, yet she confidently asserted that I didn’t like her, which sparked my interest immediately. I was somewhat hesitant about Sphere 3D, particularly following the NUMiner announcement. However, Patti swiftly dispelled any uncertainty I harbored. She exuded an electrifying presence, always impeccably dressed, equipped with a quick-witted sense of humor, and refreshingly candid in the most delightful manner.
From that moment onward, a friendship blossomed. By the conclusion of that summer, I organized another business development outing on a boat and extended an invitation to Patti. She casually noted that it coincidentally fell on her birthday, which prompted us to plan a surprise cake. The joy on her face was priceless. The following day, I arrived at my office to discover a stunning bouquet accompanied by a note expressing gratitude for the cake. I remember thinking, What kind of person sends me a gift on their own birthday? That was quintessentially Patti—thoughtful, a bit eccentric, and the perfect blend of both.
Throughout the years, Patti shared countless anecdotes from her life—her tenure at GE, her various experiences, and her struggles. She approached life boldly—often like a hammer looking for a nail. It became a delightful challenge to refine her sharper edges. Despite her fierce and unapologetic demeanor, she possessed an immense capacity for kindness. And if you were deemed her person? Her loyalty was unwavering—ready to stand by you through thick and thin without hesitation.
While she took pride in her professional achievements, nothing held a higher place in her heart than her children. Last year, she brought her son along to the prestigious Ski Summit; during Beefsteak, we found ourselves at a table where she charmingly teased anyone who approached us. The best part? People relished it. They craved more of her infectious energy. When it came time for her daughter’s wedding, Patti treated it with the utmost seriousness. Her speech was nothing short of perfect. As the true family matriarch, she walked her daughter down the aisle, passing her off to her son-in-law with that unmistakable I’m watching you expression.
She took immense pride in being named to the Forbes 50 Under 50 list, but even more so, she dedicated herself to uplifting others—especially women. Patti was relentless in her efforts to champion those around her, opening doors and ensuring others were afforded opportunities to thrive.
During our time working together, I found that often, amidst discussions about work, our conversation would shift to the essence of life itself. When confronted with the reality of limited time, perspectives inevitably change. Patti possessed a unique outlook; she treasured time in ways that many overlook, and even in her most challenging moments, she continued to show up, to fight, to be unabashedly herself.
Over the past day, the word that resonates most from everyone describing her has been force. Despite her battle with cancer, she would still join calls, and I would remark, “Patti, aren’t you at the doctor’s office?” to which she would chuckle and respond, “Yeah, I’m bored—just let me stay.” Vulnerability was not in her nature. She fought valiantly until the very end.
Parting ways with someone is always a difficult experience, yet it serves as a poignant reminder of life’s fragility. We may find ourselves in disagreements or conflicts online, but ultimately, it’s the connections we forge on this unpredictable Bitcoin journey that linger in our memories. Some individuals leave such an indelible mark that their absence resonates profoundly. Patti was undeniably one of those remarkable individuals.
This reflection Honoring the Legacy of Patricia Trompeter first appeared on Bitcoin Magazine and is authored by Amanda Fabiano.
