Of Murray Wood

 I started writing this before I had confirmation that Murray was taken from us in the Christchurch earthquake.I held out hope that he’d survived. Somehow.  But I expected the worst.I decided that in the event he made it, I’d send him this. To let him know how I felt about him and how much I appreciated knowing him.I met Murray almost twenty years ago. I was a fresh face in the Apple IT industry, Murray was already an icon and somewhat a rogue.I worked with Murray as a supplier (he was the guy I could go to to make my sales number in order to get bonuses at work and he loved teasing those I worked for), and as a customer.I loved talking industry gossip with him and there was always industry gossip. Everybody talked to Murray.When I was in Christchurch he was always readily available for a chat or lunch. The loyalty shown to him by his staff was testament to his character.I remember his messy desk. And having to move piles of paper in order to sit on a chair.Murray was a musician and bought one of my guitar amplifiers. It was always good talking about his music exploits.He was probably the first person who encouraged me in business. And he kept on encouraging and supporting. I remember when he sold Magnum Mac he called me and said ‘Look, I’ve come into a bit of money. Let me know if you have any business that needs investment’.He had a huge heart.And his irreverent humour was always close to hand.There are many who will be grieving today. We have lost someone wonderful.Murray, you will be missed but never forgotten. You believed in me and taught me much.Thank you.Rest In Peace my friend.- Simon