In my former job, one of the surprising perks was access to a yacht docked in FiDi during the summer months. Officially, it was all part of business development, but let’s be honest, it was more about mingling and unwinding. It was on one of these outings that I first crossed paths with Patti. She confidently made her way onto the yacht, and though I didn’t have a clue who she was, her claim that I already didn’t like her spiked my curiosity. Initially, I had my reservations about Sphere 3D, especially after their announcement about NUMiner. However, meeting Patti swiftly dispelled any doubts. She was a remarkable presence—always impeccably dressed and overflowing with sharp wit, she spoke openly and honestly, which was immediately refreshing.
After that first encounter, a friendship quickly blossomed. By the end of that summer, there was another yacht-based business development event, and this time I invited Patti. Turns out, it was her birthday, so we secretly arranged a surprise cake. Her delighted reaction was priceless. The following morning, I walked into my office to find a beautiful bouquet and a note from Patti thanking me for the gesture. I remember thinking, who sends a gift to say thanks on their own birthday? But that was so quintessentially Patti—thoughtful to a fault, slightly unconventional, and absolutely wonderful for it.
Through the years, Patti shared countless anecdotes from her life, ranging from her tenure at GE to her myriad of personal and professional challenges. She often adopted an assertive approach—more hammer than screwdriver—but I found enjoyment in tempering her less smooth edges. Beneath her formidable exterior was a tremendously generous spirit. For those she considered her own, Patti was fiercely devoted, the kind of person you’d want in your corner, ready to defend her people without question.
While she treasured her career milestones, nothing brought her greater joy than her children. Last year, she proudly brought her son along to the prestigious Ski Summit. During the Beefsteak event, we stood together, and she playfully teased anyone who came by. People adored her for it—her energy was magnetic. Patti took her daughter’s wedding very seriously, delivering a speech with unmatched poise and walking her daughter down the aisle with a protective, watchful gaze that needed no words.
Making the Forbes 50 Under 50 list was a point of pride for her, but Patti was far more invested in uplifting others, particularly women. She was constantly offering support, opening up opportunities, and ensuring others had their time to shine.
Throughout our working relationship, I noticed our discussions often shifted from business to life itself. She had a unique perspective on time, an appreciation many of us overlook, showing me how she prioritized moments that truly mattered. Even in her most challenging days, she never ceased to be her authentic self—persistent and unstoppable.
In recent conversations, the universal sentiment about Patti was that she was a real force of nature. Even while bravely confronting cancer, she continued joining calls. I’d ask, “Patti, aren’t you at the doctor’s?” She’d chuckle and reply, “Yes, I’m bored, just let me stay.” Vulnerability was not her default setting, and she fought relentlessly to the very end.
Bidding farewell to someone is always difficult, but it underscores life’s fleeting nature. We can argue and disagree online, yet it’s the bonds we form on this unpredictable Bitcoin journey that stay with us. Some individuals leave behind such an indelible impression that their absence feels immense. Patti was undoubtedly one of those unforgettable people.
