Don was The Man on all things Standards at HP; I worked with him in the '80s on OSI. He was a terrific leader and a very patient guy. We all looked to him for guidance on those complex situations that arose in multivendor standards meetings. His name brings pleasant memories to mind -- particularly his smile and gentle encouragement. And he did love those puns.
Don always had a great mixture of humor and patience. I worked with him on the 802.3 standard in the 80's. He always seemed to manage his way through what I found to be a long, frustrating process. He has left quite a legacy in the networking world.
Don was a wonderful man - a true technical leader whose contributions have had lasting benefit for the world, and yet such a humble, humorous, friendly guy who was just fun to be around and to know. My deep condolences to his family.
Don and I worked together on many standards committees in the IEEE, INCITS (then X3) and JTC1 throughout the late 80's and 90's. He was always the most collected person at whatever meeting, even when things got a little heated. His technical and political savvy were much appreciated. I didn't have a chance to see him after he retired, but have thought about him often. R.I.P. Don ================= The bustle in a house The morning after death Is solemnest of industries Enacted upon earth, -- The sweeping up the heart, And putting love away We shall not want to use again Until eternity. ------ Emily Dickinson
Don best embodied the philosophy of the engineer of anyone I worked with. Don always sought a successful result--perhaps even when not in HP's best interest. And, just when you thought you were in the presence of a sage, he would come out with a horrible pun! What a great guy to work with.