I was saddened to return home today after an east-coast trip to be greeted with the news that Tom LeVine had died from a brain tumor diagnosed only two months ago. Tom was the CEO of Pop!Tech, a marvelous annual event held in Maine every year. IT Conversations streamed live audio from Pop!Tech 2004 and 2005 thanks to Tom’s believe in our mutual missions.

I first met Tom about 13 years ago when he was working in venture capital. We worked together to start an online business, but it never happened. Years later, Tom and I were both happy the project never got off the ground for a variety of reasons. We remained friends and sometimes shared a meal when he was in the Bay Area. As the Pop!Tech announcement says, Tom was one of those incredibly healthy and active people we all figure would outlive the rest of us. Alas, he passed away at the age of 56. He is already missed, and will be for some time.