This is the hardest blog post I ever had to write.

I just heard a friend of mine passed away last week.

Sami was an avid gamer in the truest sense of the word. He seemed to have boundless enthusiasm for all games. Instead of concentrating on a few things like most of us, Sami would play anything and everything from role-playing games to board and card games and ofcourse miniature games. He also had a keen interest in modeling and rules, frequently writing house rules and always eager to playtest new rules and variations. He was an invaluable help playtesting my rules as well.

He was always ready for a game and a veritable cornucopia of ideas, always working on something new. I respect the way he always immersed himself in the game, caring for the fates of his little lead or polystyrene soldiers. He didn't just play the game, he lived it.

He was a big man with a big heart and big personality. He leaves a big hole in our lives.

Sami is not the first friend I've lost, but I don't think you ever quite get used to it. It still hurts. All the things we could have done, all the games and projects postponed are now opportunities missed forever. I feel bad for not always being able to match his energy and commitment.

I am lucky to count Sami among my friends. I will value the memories of our time together.

Farewell big fellow.

P.S. I couldn't find any pictures of Sami so I put in pictures of his models in action instead. I think he would have liked that.

maxxon