It cannot be. I've always known you as one of our most level-headed editors with great and highly valued thoughts. Only a couple of days ago I was reading your perspective on some matter - enlightening, as ever. Gone too soon. Farewell, and rest in peace, Richard. JavaHurricane12:18, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
It was shocking that we all seen him in Singapore a few days back at Wikimania 2023. This is sad. Our sincere condolences to his family -- Exec8 (talk) 14:57, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
I am so sad to hear this. We talked just a couple weeks ago and shared jokes and smiles in Singapore. My condolences to his family and I will miss his wisdom and kindness. Selena Deckelmann (talk) 21:36, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
I simply cannot believe the news. Gone way too soon. I will miss you, we will miss you. Farewell and rest in peace, you'll be sorely missed. -- KTC (talk) 12:43, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
I cannot believe it. You were truly one of our best and kindest contributors, and we owe you significantly for your diligent work with the Foundation in the MCDC and other projects, let alone your adminship here. Richard, you brightened the experiences of everyone around you here, and we are all, across the movement, far worse off without you. Rest in peace. Giraffer(talk·contribs)13:04, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
I am deeply saddened to hear about your passing. Rest in peace. I will be keeping you in my prayers and in my thoughts, and I will always remember your kind soul. — Red-tailed hawk(nest)13:15, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
I'm so saddened and shocked to hear this news, it was only two weeks ago we met in person at Wikimania. The projects will be worse off for not having you around. Sam Walton (talk) 13:15, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
I am incredibly saddened by this terrible news that I was not expecting at all. Richard, you have been so kind and helpful, and I enjoyed working with you my friend. I have only positive memories with you, and it will be hard to accept that we will not be talking anymore. May you rest in peace. -- Anass Sedrati (talk) 13:53, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
I was devastated to hear this news. Thanks for your friendship and your tireless contributions to free knowledge, dear one. It was a privilege and joy to work with you. KevinL (aka L235·t·c) 14:28, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Oh, this is sad news indeed! My deepest condolences to any friends or family who may happen to read this – Wikipedia has lost an outstanding editor, the kind we wish we had more of, but your loss is much greater. In sorrow, Justlettersandnumbers (talk) 14:41, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Just days ago you were in Singapore for Wikimania 2023 and I was delighted to have you here. I regret being unable to interact with you (and many others) in greater depth while being the host alongside with the COT and I had wished otherwise. It is sad to learn about you passing away this soon, as I was hoping that we would meet one day again somewhere, sometime. Rest in peace. – robertsky (talk) 14:51, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
I have seen Nosebagbear here and there in some online discussions, but I got to meet him 10 days ago in Wikimania Singapore. So shocked to read this. Rest in peace. -Theklan (talk) 14:52, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
I have only talked to Richard on occasion on Discord, and I regret not talking to him more at this year's Wikimania. Nevertheless, my interactions with him have been nothing but the best. My sincerest condolences to his family; may he rest in peace. Chlod (say hi!) 15:02, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
You have left a great contribution to Wikipedia, in the fair resolution of sometimes difficult relations between editors. You were smart, wise and caring. May your soul rest in peace. --Perohanych (talk) 15:08, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Sad news indeed. I appreciated Richard's contributions, and his willingness to consider different perspectives when we disagreed. We had dinner just a few weeks ago; he was so very much alive, then. /Julle (talk) 15:16, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Struggling to find the right words. Nbb and I have worked very closely on the Movement Charter Drafting Committee, to which he has been a major contributor. It is heartbreaking to think that he was the last Wikimedian I spoke with before leaving Singapore less than two weeks ago. We will miss him a great deal on the MCDC, on English Wikipedia, on Meta, and throughout the movement. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. Risker (talk) 15:29, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
We sat next to each other at a meeting during Wikimania. We chatted and laughed. That was just days ago; now this. At a loss for grand words. RIP, Richard. --Rosiestep (talk) 15:41, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
I don't normally write at these but since I expect his family will be reading this and looking for comfort at losing someone so young, I want to note just how remarkable Richard was. He was in many ways a quintessential Wikipedian, in that he was passionate about our mission, held strong feelings on topics that would make many (including many other Wikipedians) shake their heads at the idea that someone could care so much about such a topic, worked hard to improve things for others both inside of Wikipedia and for the world at large, always be willing to consider alternative points of view and be ready to change his mind on something, and be so, so, so very kind. His presence on the MCDC, which he acheived through truly hard work and just bothering to show up to a lot of meetings in the 12-18 months prior to the election where others got to know just how special he was, was a big reason that I was optimistic about what it would do in reshaping Wikipedia. I'm going to miss all that but I am going to miss our talks more. His humor more. And most of all his kindness more. While I am so sad at the future that doesn't have him, I am also so grateful for the time we spent together. With love and apprecation, Barkeep49 (talk) 15:44, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
This is incredibly sad. Love to everyone and my deepest condolences to family and friends. What a loss for our Movement. Thank you Richard for all you have done! --Joalpe (talk) 15:45, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Unbelievable. I'm shocked and deeply saddened by his sudden passing. We met in person two weeks ago. I knew Richard as a kind, cheerful, and helpful person. My thoughts are with his family and loved ones. Know that he was appreciated and liked here. (Also, +1 to what Barkeep49 wrote.) SGrabarczuk (WMF) (talk) 15:53, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
So shocking to hear this just a few days after seeing Richard in great spirits at Wikimania. I have a lot of respect for the way he always managed to combine being constructive and considerate with resolutely standing up for the Wikipedian values he believed in. His departure is a great loss for the movement. My condolences to his family and friends. Rest in peace. --Tgr (talk) 16:04, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
I'm so sad to hear this. I really appreciated the thought-provoking input that Nosebagbear brought to conversations about software, and he helped shape much of what we use today on the wikis. I know he was involved in much more, and many parts of our communities will miss his presence. -- MMiller (WMF) (talk) 16:44, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
I am so sad to hear this you will be in my memories and thoughts. I hope you rest peacefully and your loved ones find comfort in the joy you brought others.PICKLEDICAE🥒 17:05, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Perhaps one of the most kind, welcoming and conciliatory editors on the project, this is really heart breaking. Rest in peace. – Isochrone (T) 17:18, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Rest in peace. He's been a titan of this community, and he's, although he might not have known it, affected me and my contributions in many ways. I can't find any other words for this, and I'm sorry. I give my utmost condolences to his family. Roniiustalk to me17:22, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
So, so sorry. I had the privilege of working with Richard on multiple things in the last three years, and we met online dozens of times, in person several. He was funny, warm, intelligent, strong-willed, and kind. He never hesitated to voice his opinions for sure, but on more than one occasion he reached out to me privately to quietly point out a staff mistake so it could be corrected without somebody being unduly embarrassed or even, once, just to see if a staff member was okay because he had heard bad news about them through the grapevine. He had a huge brain and a huger heart, and I wish I had hugged him harder when last we met. --Maggie Dennis (WMF) (talk) 17:31, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
In the almost 2 years we served on the MCDC committee together, I was lucky enough to meet Nbb in person 3 times: Berlin 2022, Utrecht 2023 and Singapore 2023. And boy, there was always something happening with Nbb... I recall the unexpected heat in June in Berlin (we both needed wet towels to keep our cool!), I remember the case of the lost luggage in Utrecht, and Singapore is a story all by itself. Nbb, I will miss you dearly: your English accent and long sentences almost drove me crazy at times, but you never grew tired of explaining to me all the things I did not understand, and I think you actually very much liked it when I picked your brain about all the plans and ideas you had for our movement. I am honored to have known and worked with you. Love, Ciell (talk) 17:41, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
It's rare to find a human who, when they disagree with you about something, always takes the time to listen to you and understand your perspective, instead of just talking over you. Richard was one of those rare humans, and I'm thankful for every interaction we had together. My deepest condolences to his family and friends. Wikipedia and our movement have been enriched deeply from his contributions over the years, and I will really miss talking with him. Rest in peace, Nbb. Liannadavis (talk) 17:42, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
I'm so very sorry to hear this. I too met Nbb at Wikimania this year. He never hesitated to ask the hard questions. He was polite, kind and truly a passionate Wikipedian at heart. Rest in peace, Nbb. -- NKohli (WMF) (talk) 18:04, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Rest in peace. He was a significant Wikimedian, who had still lot of things to offer for the further improvement of the global movement. His loss is irreplaceable. NikosLikomitros (talk) 18:38, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
This is very sad news to hear. I was amongst many who met Nosebagbear at Wikimania this year and I could immediately see his dedication to the movement. He truly left a positive impact on the movement and his loss will be felt. May he rest in peace. Dreamy Jazztalk to me | my contributions18:39, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
What a terrible thing. I hope his family sees these messages and knows how much of an impact Richard had on everyone on this project. ♠PMC♠ (talk)19:08, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Rest easy NBB. You will be sorely missed - your mix of good humour and a permanently level-head when dealing with complex topics is in very short supply these days. firefly ( t · c ) 19:28, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Two weeks back we've had a long chat about everything and nothing at the Functionaries meetup. What a sad memory this will become. Thank you for your work, rest in peace, —DerHexer(Talk)19:35, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
This is horrible. NBB was a brilliantly funny guy, an intelligent commentator, and a dedicated supporter of the project. I loved all he did here; I was sure it would go on forevermore. So sorry to hear this. Vaticidalprophet20:14, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
I am so sorry to hear of this. He was a genuinely kind, thoughtful, funny, intelligent individual who will be missed greatly. - Aoidh (talk) 20:32, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
I met you during Wikimania 2023. We worked together in creating a volunteer profile and named her "Aisha". You were a great team member. It was clear that you had so much to offer to Wikimedia Movement. Rest in peace. Basak (talk) 21:20, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
I remember talking to him and reading things he had said just a few days ago, it's hard to think about him not being around anymore. He was always willing to help out and diffuse difficult situations, and his commentary was always welcome. You can disagree with him and it'd be no big deal. He had my back all the way back when I Money emoji and helped guide me through a difficult RfA, and along with L235 he was one of the first editors I ever got on a call with and talked to. Back before CCI was a relevant well-known issue he did significant work at a major cleanup. Even though he wasn't the most experienced, he wanted to do a good thing and help out, and he sure did. The community Discord likewise benefited from his presence greatly, he helped guide policy when times were rough and hanging out with him and others on the late night calls was a highlight of my time on Wikipedia. He did a lot of great work on the MCDC and running stuff between the community and the WMF, and there will be a definite void to fill there in terms of someone who knows and understands the needs of both. I'm happy he edited here and that he was my friend and that we were able to know him during this time. Moneytrees🏝️(Talk)21:36, 1 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
I had just sent you a rough draft for a rainy-day policy proposal (for that one constitutional crisis scenario we'd chatted about), and was looking forward to hearing you explain, in a very charming tone, all the things that were wrong with it. You were one of my favorite people to work with, and generally spend time with, on this project. I recall, just about a year ago, dropping into a voice call on Discord from my sickbed, having not previously mentioned I was in (the) hospital. You were compassionate and witty, and helped keep me in good spirits. I'm sorry I never got the chance to return the favo(u)r. May your memory be for a blessing. -- Tamzin[cetacean needed] (she|they|xe) 00:19, 2 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
This is deeply saddening. Whenever I saw Nosebagbear's signature, I knew I could expect levelheaded judgment. My sincerest condolences to his family. Mz7 (talk) 00:30, 2 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Nosebagbear, I just noticed that your name was crossed out on your contributions on a page history which is always a bad sign, either of death or of an indefinite blocking. I don't know what happened but you will be greatly missed! LizRead!Talk!02:43, 2 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
It's hard to imagine I've interacted with you for the last time.. You were incredible. I don't know what to say.. I kind of need to process this. –MJL‐Talk‐☖04:50, 2 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
The thing that always stood out for me about Nosebagbear was how amused by circumstance he was. People here have said he's smart, and that's true. He had a lot of technical and policy knowledge, but there are a lot of people like that around here. What was different about Nosebagbear was how effective he was at putting his knowledge to work. It's also that he always did it in such a positive way; you can tell he really enjoyed the work he did. He had this tone of voice that I'll never get out of my head. The way he emphasized certain syllables of a word to express his ideas.. how he'd explain things to make sure everyone in a chat understood what was being talked about... I leaned on him pretty hard when I was on the committee to draft the UCoC enforcement guidelines. So many other people relied on him, too.. There's going to be such a massive hole in the community now that he's gone. I honestly don't know what to do with myself. His death is really taking its toll on a lot of us who knew him on Discord. It wasn't just that Nosebagbear was a useful person, but he had such an infectious energy that is irreplaceable. Despite being one of the most productive policy people in the global community, he was even better at making you laugh or feel happy. His personality and his character will probably be what I miss most of all about him. –MJL‐Talk‐☖17:48, 2 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Rest in peace, NoseBagBear. I saw you commenting on my RfC only a few days ago; it's shocking to see you go. You will be missed. - Ca (Talk)
You were one of the first Wikimedians I met at this year's Wikimania, and we had several interesting and wide-ranging conversations. You were a lot of fun to talk to! Rest in peace. DrThneed (talk) 05:44, 2 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Whom he was a great admin, my sincere condolences to his family. Rest in peace, Nosebagbear, you'll be remembered forever by the community. :( signed,64andtim (chat) 06:01, 2 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
I'm devastated. My condolences to your family and friends. Thanks for all your contributions, I always had a good time working with you. Legoktm (talk) 06:18, 2 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
my goodness, what a shocking news. I appreciated how opinionated you were, but always willing to listen and change your mind. We didn't operate in the same sphere often but ill sorely miss hearing your voice in the Discord. Rest in peace. —TheDJ (talk • contribs) 08:55, 2 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
My sincere condolences to the family, friends, and everyone who had a chance to interact, work, and laugh with Nosebagbear. You will be missed, Nbb. Rest in peace --AAkhmedova (WMF) (talk) 12:59, 2 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
A shocking and terrible loss for our community. NBB/Richard was a great contributor to this project and a wise voice in our discussions. He helped to move our projects forward in a variety of ways, and will be missed. My condolences to his family and friends. — Rhododendritestalk \\ 13:36, 2 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Nosebagbear, we will miss you dearly. It was a true pleasure to work with you, and an even greater gift to spend time with you at Wikimania this year. My you rest in peace. Airplaneman(talk)✈13:56, 2 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Thanks for all your time that you dedicated to this beautiful project, I know it was one of your happiest moments. We will miss you so much. --2x2leax (talk) 16:00, 2 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
We've lost some really solid editors in the last year, Nosebagbear being one of them. I didn't have much interaction with him, but saw them around everywhere. His positive impact on the project will be missed. Rest in peace. Netherzone (talk) 16:39, 2 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Such sad and shocking news, and an immense loss to the movement. I was fortunate enough to meet him in person last year and he was just as brimming with wisdom and humour as his comments on the wikis were. My deepest condolences to his loved ones. the wub / Peter Coombe (WMF) (talk) 21:55, 2 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
I, unlike many here, have not had the fortune of meeting Richard in person, and my interactions with him were largely mediated through the Movement Charter Drafting Committee elections in 2021. Nevertheless, his dedication to the movement is an example we should all aspire to, and he will be deeply missed. My deepest condolences to his family, and may we never forget what he leaves behind as we continue building on his work without him. --Sky Harbor(talk)01:20, 3 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
What a shocking and terrible loss. NBB was one of my favorite admins for his well-reasoned explanations of our policies and guidelines. His excellent AfD closing statements were what inspired me to make a "good AfD closes" bookmark folder to save discussion precedents to back when I first started familiarizing myself with notability guidelines, and I regularly refer back to them for guidance. He will be missed. JoelleJay (talk) 01:27, 3 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
I am just gutted to hear Nosebagbear has passed away. I had been in voice chat with him in the Discord for some large number of hours. And I won't be able to hear it again. :((((( SWinxy (talk) 03:10, 3 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Rest in peace, NBB. The ways that you have impacted everyone around you cannot be measured in words, only by passing on the warmth, compassion, and energy that you gave to others. Sennecaster (Chat) 15:39, 3 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Rest in peace, I have seen your edits, and I recognise your contributions. Thank you for the incredible amount of dedication and time you gave to the project. Goodbye, and I wish you the best in your future. Zippybonzo | Talk (he|him) 20:51, 3 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
I was fortunate, like others, to meet Richard briefly at Wikimania in Singapore just a few weeks ago. He seemed like a lovely, intelligent, friendly man, with a great sense of humour. What a loss to the world, and my thoughts are with his family. Chocmilk03 (talk) 01:22, 4 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
I was lucky enough to meet Richard a few times in person apart from interacting on & off wiki online over the last few years. As others have noted, nbb brought humour, charm and a deep understanding of our projects to all discussions he took part in (there were many!). Richard's legacy is profound and will leave a lasting impact. I will always be thankful for all his advice and thoughts. My sincere condolences to the family and may he rest in peace. MPaul (WMF) (talk) 17:24, 4 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Want to join all the people who have said that they appreciated talking to Nosebagbear through Discord, and I would certainly miss that. Rest in peace. stjn06:34, 5 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
It's so sad to even think about this and accept NBB is no longer in this world. I've been honored to work with him side by side in the MCDC, and he was the embodiment of what I value in a Wikimedian. A person ready to work, always open to do their best, and who despite differences in opinion, was always there to listen, valued feedback, and was always adding value to whatever we were working on. The MCDC will be missing an integral member, the movement an amazing Wikimedian, and the world a noble and kind human being. Rest in Peace, Richard. JVargas (WMF) (talk) 19:59, 5 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Richard was charming and generous. Beyond that, I regret the loss of his contributions as a drafter of the Wikimedia Movement charter. Nosebagbear had a reputation and a platform of being the only drafter who was not also active in the current modes of Wikimedia community governance. He made a understandable claim to represent the online Wikipedia editors and he was backing that up in his legislation. I invited him several times to share updates with The Signpost newsletter, which he intended to do soon, including the last time I asked him at Wikimania. Life is too short and how unexpected and unfortunate this is for everyone. He was the center of a lot of people's hopes and there is no replacing his advocacy. I am grateful at least that made it to the first milestone of drafting and that he got to present it all in good spirits and health at Wikimania to everyone. He was involved in so much more besides, including email support for sensitive issues in the Volunteer Response Team. Bye Richard. Bluerasberry (talk)20:30, 5 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
I have never personally crossed paths with him but I've. seen his name everywhere. I know he was loved and cherished and the community will miss him. Panini!•🥪07:37, 8 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
I have noticed that a little bit back I made a joke page that Nosebagbear left a witty closing comment on that gave me a good laugh when I read it. It was among his final edits. What a user. Per his request on the page I have trouted both Edward-Woodrow and myself. Panini!•🥪20:43, 10 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Last year, I made a WP:SNOWBALL close on the essay WP:HID. I wasn't sure if I had waited long enough, so I went to Discord to ask if I had done the right thing. You were the one who told me to go to WP:AN for feedback. It sucks knowing that I won't be seeing you around much anymore. R.I.P. and God bless. Scorpions1325 (talk) 06:29, 9 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
It hurts me to see you go, Richard, with all the edits you could have done, all the inspiring conversations that you could still hold with people, all the good stuff you had here waiting for you. If there is an afterlife, I want to see you there when my time finally comes. Rest in peace. Wojciech Pędzich (talk) 20:14, 9 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
I only just learned of NBB's passing this morning, and my head is still spinning. It's a very sad loss for us all. I would've thought we'd have him for a long time to come. He'll be missed. Kurtis(talk)05:26, 11 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
I was looking through an old discussion and saw that your username was no longer highlighted blue; I thought you had retired or something. Extremely shocked and saddened to hear this. – John M Wolfson (talk • contribs) 18:16, 12 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
I happened upon this terrible news by chance just now. He was obviously a young man, which makes this even more of a loss to his family and friends and to all Wikipedians who admired his work and hoped it would continue for many years. As many others have noted already, RIP, you will be missed. Condolences to his family. Donner60 (talk) 05:19, 14 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Rest in Peace and in our hearts (i readed the Signpost) Your contributions are here and strong alive. Wikipedians don't die, they fade away. Condolences to your family Mike Coppolano (talk) 06:49, 16 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
A big loss in our community. I don't know if I had interacted with NBB during my time as an active Wikipedian, but I have seen his name time to time. He will surely be missed. MarioJump83 (talk) 16:30, 16 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Only saw this news now. Always sad. I have donated in his name to the Israeli Epilepsy Association. May you rest in peace and your memory be a blessing. --SuperJew (talk) 06:40, 18 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
I waited until today to share something as it's taken me quite a while to process. Your absence will be felt across many projects. A real loss for our movement. For me, you were an inspiration for staying true to your values and for doing it all with humour and humility. I'd never met someone who fought so passionately for what they believed in and at the same time, were fully open to – in fact, appreciated – being challenged. I cherished that we got to work together closely in the Movement Charter drafting process and that I also got to see you have fun, let loose, and laugh – whether at Utrecht Pride or the Wikimania Karaoke. For me, your passing is a reminder of the fragility of life, of the vulnerability of our interactions, and the importance of leaving the online world and connecting in person. It's also a reminder of my commitment to ensuring a charter is created for the movement by the movement. Farewell Richard, rest in peace. MPourzaki (WMF) (talk) 12:56, 19 September 2023 (UTC)[reply]
I like to look back through a user's contributions when reflecting on their life here which I see as a microcosm of who they are and were in life away from here. But one of the things that most stood out to me is written here, just below this amazing memorial of words. Richard requested as much color to be worn for any service to honor his life. That brought a smile to my face because that one request tells me so much about who Richard is and how he will be remembered by those who know him. To his family and friends outside Wikipedia I extend condolences for the loss of this very real physical presence in your life. For the community I mourn with you the loss of an intellectual giant who carried himself with dignity and is the epitome of civility and collaboration I think we all aspire to emulate. Richard's colors are vibrant still and they resonate in us. His life had impact, meaning, depth as evidenced by all those who have left messages here. Richard you were and are appreciated and loved. Be at peace and know your Song is still being sung through us. --ARoseWolf16:01, 4 October 2023 (UTC)[reply]
I just found out about this, and was shocked to hear it. I'm so sorry, and his many contributions to the project will be greatly missed. --Tryptofish (talk) 17:30, 4 October 2023 (UTC)[reply]
We never did interact as I'm something of a wiki-recluse. However, every time I saw his name I knew that nothin' but sense would follow. His loss is felt, may he rest in peace. ~Judy(job requests)20:17, 4 October 2023 (UTC)[reply]
I just learned about your passing, Richard. My heartfelt condolences to your friends, family, and loved ones. You were one heck of an admin who I held in high regard. I am truly sorry to lose you. Should your family ever see this: know that Richard's contributions to Wikipedia (over 25,000!) are immortalized and his contributions will be visible by all and have helped advance Wikipedia's mission of providing open source knowledge for all. Godspeed, Richard. May you Rest In Peace. --TheSandDoctorTalk16:17, 27 October 2023 (UTC)[reply]
I too have only just learned of Richard’s sudden passing. Whilst we didn’t interact much on Wikipedia, I will remember him fondly from the Discord. Rest in peace. :( Patient Zerotalk03:57, 30 October 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Me too: I have only just learnt of Nosebagbear's (or Richard's, as it turns out I should say) death. I have really nothing to add to what others have said, apart from saying that I am personally deeply saddened. I had a great deal of respect for him as a contributor to Wikipedia. JBW (talk) 20:39, 3 November 2023 (UTC)[reply]
I too have just learnt of Richard's passing. We didn't interact much but i always saw him either helping editors or improving the project, My sincere condolences to friends and family, RIP RIchard. –Davey2010Talk00:01, 30 December 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Just learned about your passing, you were one of the admins who I'd regularly see about the site hard at work. Rest in peace :( Pahunkat (talk) 17:20, 8 May 2024 (UTC)[reply]
I just heard about this sad loss. I am truly sad to hear this. just wanted to express my deepest condolences and my sadness at this sad news. --Sm8900 (talk)
The memorial
Hello, all. I have been in contact with Richard's family. I know that the appreciation voiced for Richard has been a comfort to them to read. A number of people had asked me about memorials for him, and his family has shared information along with a photo. Since I cannot post the photo here, I have posted it on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/wikipediaweekly/posts/6554597494588026
The information I can also share here.
NBB's funeral will take place at St James’s Piccadilly (197 Piccadilly, W1J 9LL, 3 minutes’ walk from Piccadilly Underground Station) London at 11.30am on Tuesday 19th September.
Everyone is warmly welcome to the service – and afterwards at the Hotel Café Royal, a short walk away, for food and drink.
Richard left strict instructions for those who come to his funeral:
No-one is to wear a black tie and the more colour each person can include in their choice of clothes the gladder Richard will be.
Each person attending is challenged to bring a photo of them and Richard together, as well as at least one suitably humorous anecdote about or from Richard –and Richard asked us to remind you all that he was never one for feeling embarrassment.
For those would like to be part of the service, but are unable to get to London on the 19th, we will be live-streaming the service – we will share the link via Social Media nearer the time.
You're on my yearly Christmas card list on-wiki. It honestly feels so weird that you aren't here to receive it this year. Nosebagbear is missed by all of us on-wiki. I do hope that the bear clan is able to find peace in this normally joyous season and spend quality time together. My heartfelt condolences. Godspeed, Nosebagbear. Your memory lives on. Sincerely, TheSandDoctorTalk07:43, 25 December 2023 (UTC)[reply]
I dreamed about him during the holiday break, something with a very Wikipedian discussion on some kind of niche topic he and another Wikimedian were getting themselves into. Ciell (talk) 19:47, 2 January 2024 (UTC)[reply]
I just finished doing some work looking through old discussion about the UCoC. And there was NBB all over the discussions. It made me miss him all anew. Of course I found myself only agreeing with his about half his points about things, but that was par for the course. I so appreciated the viewpoint he brought though and the way he he would hash it out and make me really think. My world, and I think I can honestly say the Wikimedia Community, is a little smaller without NBB around. Best, Barkeep49 (talk) 21:29, 23 January 2025 (UTC)[reply]
