In memoriam: Michael Foord 1974-2025
Through Nicholas Tollervey the news reached me that former core dev Michael Foord has passed away. Michael, an original thinker if there ever was one, started the tradition of having Language Summit events at PyCon, IIRC together with Barry Warsaw. He also wrote and contributed the influential mock library.
I have met Michael enough times to have some really good memories of hanging out with him. Once he explained to me (over a pint, of course) how much vaping had helped him end his lifelong smoking addiction. I still have this incredibly beautiful image etched in my mind of Michael showing me how his elaborate vaping device worked.
PS. Feel free to post your own (positive) memories of meeting Michael – perhaps his children (10 and 13) will read them when they’re older and this thread might help them remember their father.
I never met Michael, and I’m sure I’m poorer for it. He was, at times, deeply troubled, but also deeply caring, hilarious, infuriating, and insightful. He almost never posted on Discourse, because his straightforward, unfiltered, and passionate style was sure to offend.
