The hardest post

Daniel Foster

Posted on October 17th, 2006 at 7:21 pm

I am so sorry to hear this tragic news. This is truly a loss for the P2P lending movement, to say the least. I have been truly inspired by Zopa and I believe Richard will be known as a pioneer in the transformation of the consumer lending industry.

I’m setting aside $1000 to lend on Zopa USA once you launch here in California.

Here’s to Richard…

Jackie Danicki

Posted on October 17th, 2006 at 8:12 pm

What terribly sad news. I only met Richard once – I went out of my way to run out of a conference and catch him before he left the building, just to tell him that I thought he was doing fantastic things in business, and perpetuating important ideas about how people can better live their lives. He made me glad I did run after him. He was warm and genuine, and gave me a smile I’ll never forget. I extend my deepest condolences to his family and friends – and I include in that his Zopa colleagues – at this difficult time. I am so sorry for your loss.

Jackie Danicki » RIP Richard Duvall

Posted on October 17th, 2006 at 8:22 pm

[...] Gosh, this is just the saddest news: Zopa CEO Richard Duvall passed away on Monday morning, after a brief battle with cancer. I only met Richard once, back in July (pictures here), when I darted out of the conference to catch him before he left the building. I wanted him to know that I appreciate so much the work that he and the Zopa gang have done, bringing an actual free market approach to financial services, and that he had a real gem in Zopa creator (and blogger) Dave Nicholson. When I got Dave’s email about Richard, all I could think of was how genuine and friendly Richard was with me, when I was basically dorking out like some business groupie. [...]

Pete

Posted on October 17th, 2006 at 8:25 pm

Firstly to Richards family – sincere condolences on the loss of a man you must be extremely proud of, both as a husband, father, friend, and mentor.
Sadly, I never met Richard, but I do know how much he has inspired the ZOPA team and his memory will live on in the success of his ideals that the team have adopted and will carry through in all that they achieve.
To the Team, make Richard proud of You; I’m certain he will be watching with a smile as you break the barriers of convention and succeed in all you do.

To Richard…

Megan Kamil

Posted on October 17th, 2006 at 10:12 pm

Richard,

You will be missed dearly. I’m sorry I didn’t get to say goodbye and wish I knew this was the illness you had when you mentioned you were in bed ill. I thought you had a cold, turns out you had something much worse then my imagination could have imagined. I feel like a fool for not being more inquisitive about the topic. I would do anything to take time back right now. Thanks endlessly for being a continued source of inspiration and role model, believing in the youth, and having the passions and heart to shake the world with industry changing/consumer empowering innovations.

I will not forget your great sense of humor, ability to “get down” with the team, and your natural talent to know what drives me and to always say just the right words to charge me with excitement and energy. I hope to one day be the great leader to others as you have been to me.

Respectfully,

Megan Kamil

cheapermoney

Posted on October 17th, 2006 at 11:35 pm

i am saddened by the news of richards death. he used to ring me to ask how i felt zopa was developing. without him i do not think the idea would have got off the ground. Tonight the world has lost a great person and leader, my sincere condolences to his family and work colleagues

Respectfully

Steve Ashby

Gary Wigglesworth

Posted on October 18th, 2006 at 1:18 am

My thoughts go out to Krys and the children and you guys as his collegues. Richard is simply the most courageous man I have known.

I recall his “partner to millions” game and hope that you guys go on to realise his vision and dreams, be brave and true…that’s what Richard would want

Bruce Davis

Posted on October 18th, 2006 at 8:28 am

Richard was a unqiuely inspiring man of vision, who really did look at the world as it could be as say ‘why not?’

My thoughts and feelings go out to Krys and his family at this difficult time. As a friend, mentor and fellow New Barn conspirator, Richard was irreplaceable. I have never met anyone who combined his vision, ability to make sense of the world and amazing energy to make it happen. His genuine desire to help you achieve your potential will always be with those who knew him or just listened to one of his inspiring speeches.

I will miss the real sense of possiblity that Richard created out of conversations fueled by coffee, cookies and playing table tennis in a barn in the country. That was Richard in his element and that is how I will remember him.

Simon James

Posted on October 18th, 2006 at 8:57 am

“When someone we love dies, we get so busy mourning what died that we ignore what didn’t.” Love to you all.

Carl White

Posted on October 18th, 2006 at 9:46 am

Richard came to speak at our conference for advertisers and publishers in the summer and his energy and intelligence was an inspiration to us all.On behalf of all of the team at Commission Junction I would like to send sincere condolences to Richard’s family and colleagues.This is such a tragic loss but we will always keep an image of Richard’s vision,warmth and humanity with us as an inspiration.

Naresh

Posted on October 18th, 2006 at 10:46 am

Thank you Richard.
Thank you for the most extraordinary first encounter I have ever had with anyone in which, instead of saying hello, you talked me though a cyclical history of cultural economics in twenty minutes and then asked me if I wanted to help.
Thank you for dragging me out of my jet lagged sleep in San Francisco, making me walk 30 minutes to a bar (you said it was 10) and then making me laugh for an hour and a half.
Thank you for painting such a compelling picture of freeformers that I bought it hook line and sinker and left the company I started to become one.
Thank you for a top-up of idealism. Sometimes life gets just too grey and pragmatic and practical and Zopa was, and is, such a delightful slice of blue sky thinking. It remains an inspiration.
And thank you for showing me that it’s absolutely possible for someone to be ridiculously clever, slightly silly and incredibly kind all at the same time.
I will miss you.
Naresh.

Jason Stanard

Posted on October 18th, 2006 at 11:37 am

Richard challenged me and all who worked with him to live their lives to the full, and to be and do all that they are capable of. I will do my best to live up to that challenge.

Steve Hacking

Posted on October 18th, 2006 at 11:44 am

I only met Richard three times but what I experienced was a passionate and caring man who always had time for people. I never met anyone who didn’t have a fondness for his singular positive approach to life. My condolences to Krys and his family. With love, Steve Hacking

Jane Bird

Posted on October 18th, 2006 at 11:57 am

I knew Richard initially in a professional capacity from my time working with James Isaacs at Wrightson Wood. Richard quickly became a friend of the firm, and I remember with a big smile the nights out we three had together(what a laugh and a headache the next day!), and a particularly amusing visit to his barn. Richard was great fun, a very warm person. My mother died also of cancer just over a month ago, I know how hard is it to see a loved one go, but we should feel comforted that the pain is over and remember what a great life they had. To his family – time is a great healer, sad memories will be replaced by the many happy ones that you shared together. Jane.

Charlie Leadbeater

Posted on October 18th, 2006 at 11:59 am

How shockingly sad.

I have rarely met anyone with Richard’s passion and enthusiasm, his zest for life and curiosity, matched by a drive to get things done, to turn ideas into action. And his ability to connect the business and the personal, to see what we do in a wider social setting set him apart. Above all he was hugely generous: every conversation I had with him gave me energy.How he will be missed.

Charlie

Harveyd

Posted on October 18th, 2006 at 12:20 pm

Also extremely shocked by the news. My very limited contact with Richard left me with a sense of his integrity and enthusiasm. My thoughts are with his family and colleagues.

David Rodney

Posted on October 18th, 2006 at 12:32 pm

It was a privilege to know Richard and to be one of his friends and work colleagues over the years.

We have lost a great friend and inspirational leader who was never happier than ‘challenging the way things are done around here.’

A great mind tempered with great sensitivity and humour, we will miss you.

Toby van der Meer

Posted on October 18th, 2006 at 12:36 pm

Richard enriched every person he touched, every day. His incredible vision, humanity and passion will live on.

Martin Lewis

Posted on October 18th, 2006 at 1:28 pm

We’re very sorry to hear the news. The man who invigorated the competitive consumer market with Eggs 0% credit card and continued to do so through Zopa has gone.

Our thoughts are with his family.

Martin Lewis and all at MoneySavingExpert.com

Cliff D'Arcy

Posted on October 18th, 2006 at 2:14 pm

I was shocked to hear how quickly and tragically such a great man was taken from us.

Here’s my tribute to Richard on The Motley Fool discussion boards: http://boards.fool.co.uk/Message.asp?mid=10228959&sort=whole

I hope Richard’s wife and family find some peace amidst their grief. He was a cool guy.

Cliff D’Arcy
Freelance Personal Finance Writer

Wendy White

Posted on October 18th, 2006 at 4:31 pm

Much love to Krys and family. He was the most charismatic, fiercely intelligent, generous and inspirational man I’ve met to date. He wanted to be ‘partner to millions’… history will say his was. He was never scared of making a difference and throwing his hat over the wall. I’m sure he’d expect us to carry on doing the same… I miss him enormously.

Jamie Morgan

Posted on October 18th, 2006 at 4:46 pm

I was so sad to hear the news that Richard Duvall had passed away. I am so priveledged to have known him and worked with him in setting up the wonderful idea of Zopa.
He was such a lovely man that always made me feel welcome when I went down to the London office and at all the Zopa parties.
My thoughts go out to his family at this very sad time.

Jamie
Ex employee of Zopa in Tipton

Deborah Jones

Posted on October 18th, 2006 at 5:20 pm

My thoughts and condolences to Richard’s family, friends and colleagues at Zopa, this is such sad news.

When I think of Richard it’s the sound of his voice that comes to mind, his extremely powerful yet playful voice spurring people on to create something from nothing!

He was and will continue to be an inspiration to all who had the privilege of working with him.

Lucinda Swan

Posted on October 18th, 2006 at 5:23 pm

I am so sad at this tragic loss of a man who inspired so many people.
The London Speaker Bureau worked with Richard over the last few years and we all feel the loss greatly.
He was a true gentleman,charismatic and very funny,oh how he could make me laugh. We have lost a man of vision but more importantly a friend who I will miss very much

My thoughts and prayers are with Krys and the family.

Lucinda
The London Speaker Bureau

Bruce Jackson

Posted on October 18th, 2006 at 5:32 pm

Although I only met Richard on a couple of occasions, through his business acheivements particularly with Egg and Zopa, you could clearly see he was innovative, passionate, ambitious and visionary. In a financial services industry sadly lacking these qualities, he stood out as a refreshing beacon.

He will be sadly missed.

My sincere condolences to his wife and family.

Bruce Jackson and all at The Motley Fool http://www.fool.co.uk

Alessandro Giacobbe

Posted on October 18th, 2006 at 5:44 pm

I would like to join you all in sharing the pain and sadness for Richard’s departure.

All of us who worked with Richard – he was both our customer and partner – remember him as a man of inspiring vision, a tremendously sharp mind, deep, insightful and a tough negotiator who never forgot the humorous side of life even, in the most stressful of times. Richard’s love of life and ability to be funny and entertaining while getting things done made it a pleasure to be in his company and to work with him, regardless of the circumstances.

My team and I will miss you Richard: our thoughts and prayers and with you and your family.

Alessandro Giacobbe – Microsoft Corp.

Olivier de Montety

Posted on October 18th, 2006 at 6:11 pm

Richard Duvall once was my boss, or should I say my mentor, in the most exciting and exhaustive months of my life when we transformed Zebank into Egg. He pulled the best, the worst the veryu last drop of energy of the leadership team of Egg France to achieve an impossible result. Richard is the only person I met who truly re invented both himself and financial services.
I met him last in June to share ideas and pints, and he was as ever, listening and joking, fun and brilliant, entrepreneurial and simple. I loved you Richard and I will miss you for a long long time.

Amine SEBTI

Posted on October 18th, 2006 at 7:25 pm

I knew Richard during the EGG aventure in France. I knew him as a dynamic entrepreneur, who never forgot to integrate the human dimension into his actions.
It is with a lot of sadness that I send my sincere condolences to his family and to his friends. I share their pain.

theskev

Posted on October 18th, 2006 at 7:31 pm

I only had the good fortune to see Richard on one occasion. At the time, he was announcing the plans for Egg France.

What I remember the most about this encounter was how passionate he was.

I can remember coming across an article about Zopa on the The Motley Fool website. What made me buy in to the concept was finding out that Richard was involved.

Your will be missed Richard. My thoughts go out to your friends and family.

Richard McLaren

Posted on October 19th, 2006 at 1:14 am

I am shocked and stunned by this sad news, a great man and an inspiration to other entrepreneurs has left us.
I hope Zopa will continue to be the success Richard had the vision for.

Jason Drew

Posted on October 19th, 2006 at 6:53 am

A remarkable individual and mentor who altered the course of my life on more than one occasion – his profound understanding of the way people and business interact made him a unique inspiration to all those who knew him. I am now and will often think of him and his remarkable contribution to this world.

Gareth Davies (Gruff)

Posted on October 19th, 2006 at 9:34 am

I’m stunned and enormously saddened by this news. It’s rare to meet a man who makes such an immediate and profound impression – and Richard was such a person. His inspiration will live on in many of us. My heartful condolences go to all his family, and his friends and colleagues.

Thomas Power

Posted on October 19th, 2006 at 10:04 am

Richard was a great man and a powerful achiever. He set goals and hit them time and time again. He has a brilliant reputation. He is an intellectual, he is a visionary. He will be sadly missed by the Internet industry worldwide and will be recognised for his achievements. We honour those who have departed. They are never forgotten.

Andy Coote

Posted on October 19th, 2006 at 10:16 am

So sad to hear the news. Richard will be missed. Hopefully, though, what he built will continue and form some sort of lasting memory of his vision and energy.

I, too, only met him once but was struck by his vision and by his understanding of human nature.

A Friend in Every City » Blog Archive » In memory of Richard Duvall who died 17/10/2006

Posted on October 19th, 2006 at 10:24 am

[...] http://blog.zopa.com/archives/2006/10/17/the-hardest-post/ [...]

Mike Harris

Posted on October 19th, 2006 at 10:26 am

This news is so sad.

I recruited Richard to Prudential Banking in 1995 and he worked for me for the next five years. As Prudential Banking morphed into Egg, Richard morphed from, an IT director, albeit a slightly unconventional one, into a great, unstoppable, creative force. He was inspired and unleashed by the possibilities and sense of freedom that the internet revolution offered and at that time Egg was the perfect canvas for him . And what an inspiration he was – full of ideas , full of drive, carrying all before him. He was also a lovely guy- very funny and great company , particularly if one was foolish enough to respond to his invitation for a “swift and disciplined drink”. It was rarely either swift or disciplined but it was always fun and often productive.

At Garlik (another company started by ex Egg executives) we watched what he was up to at Zopa with often open mouthed astonishment. Have you seen what he’s done now, I wonder how he’s done that we would ask ourselves. We’d better ask him, we’d say and we did and as ever we would draw inspiration from his ability to continually do what didn’t seem possible.

But what I remember most about him was his early morning ritual at Egg. He’d wonder into my office with his coffee and say “I’ve had an idea”. I’d listen with a mixture of apprehension and anticipation whilst he was inspiring, insightful and infuriating often in the same sentence. That’s what you get in the presence of genius. “Let’s sleep on that Richard” was my normal response and often by the next morning he’d decide it wasn’t such a great idea after all. But many of the ideas were stunning and off we’d go to see if we could make them happen. When we had done with ideas he’d often tell me about the conversations he’d have with his family at weekends over breakfast. It was obvious to me how much his family meant to him and how much of an inspiration they were to him. We’ll all miss him but my thoughts and sympathy go out to them.

Mike Harris ( Chairman of Garlik, ex CEO of Egg)

Maria Franzoni

Posted on October 19th, 2006 at 10:31 am

I met Richard when he joined the London Speaker Bureau as one of our speakers. I found him and his stories inspirational and soon he became a favourite speaker to work with. I introduced him to many of my clients and he delivered excellent speeches time after time. A true professional. It is such a shame that his life and speaking career were cut short as I think he would have gone on to be one of the most successful and sought after in the business because he genuinely cared about every client he worked with. He was a very special man. Although I only knew him for a short time he will be very much missed – an original. Wherever you are Richard, I hope you are continuing to inspire and motivate. Lots of love to your family.

Shaun Gisbourne

Posted on October 19th, 2006 at 10:36 am

Having only met Richard once, this still comes as a shock. He told the story of his battle with rejection by the UK banking industry after leaving Egg to form Zopa with an infectious fervour that will remain etched in my brain. May he rest in peace, may his loved ones find comfort at this most difficult of times, and may those left to continue his work realise the vision that Richard spent the last years of his life dedicated towards achieving.

Tom Ball

Posted on October 19th, 2006 at 11:04 am

That’s such a loss

Richard,
You were (are) a true inspiration, I loved hearing you speak, I loved your openness to questions. The world is less fun without you.
Good night and God bless.
Tom.

Andrew Firth

Posted on October 19th, 2006 at 11:07 am

Such tragic news!

Richard, I will truly miss you as a friend and as an inspiration. No one who worked with you when we set-up Egg will ever forget your courageous, daring and outrageous leadership.

Simon is so right to focus us all on the legacy you have left behind. So many lives in the business community inspired by your incredible spirit. But of course this is nothing compared to four fantastic children inspired by you as a father.

My heartfelt condolences to you Krys and to the whole family. And to all of you at zopa who must feel a huge loss. I am sure you will go on to create zopa as a company that Richard can look down on with huge pride.

Kate Davies

Posted on October 19th, 2006 at 11:52 am

Thank you James for calling to let us know the sad, and shocking, news about Richard’s death.

On behalf of all of us at Notting Hill I would like to send our solidarity and sympathy to you, and all your Zopa colleagues. You must be feeling very sad and lost at the moment. Richard was such a strong and compelling individual – while not solely Mr Zopa – certainly the one who made me listen and take notice.

As a consequence Notting Hill Housing Trust agreed to work closely with Zopa, in the hope of bringing benefits to the low income households we provide homes for. Richard’s description of the changes in consumer behaviour and challenges to accepted wisdom rang a bell with me, and I really wanted to be associated with financial services with attitude – so refreshing and exciting.

Obviously when a young man dies it is particularly sad. To his wife and family I send my love and understanding, and hope that you will be supported through this very difficult experience. Be glad that Richard achieved so much, so young. He made a difference and you can all be proud of that.

With love and best wishes,

Kate
(CEO, Notting Hill Housing Trust)

Geoff Sutton

Posted on October 19th, 2006 at 12:57 pm

I am heartbroken to hear the tragic news of Richard’s death.
He was a great friend to us at MSN, Microsoft and the whole industry demonstrating great vision, integrity and a wonderful sense of humour.
When I wanted to learn what was going on in the future, I asked Richard. He taught me a great deal.
My sympathy to his family and colleagues at Zopa.
Geoff Sutton and all at MSN & Microsoft.

Jeremy Rosenblum

Posted on October 19th, 2006 at 1:21 pm

I was horrified to hear the news of Richard’s illness and death. I have had the pleasure of working with Richard over the past year and found him, only a few months ago, to be vibrant, energetic and full of good humor. His vision and intelligence were remarkable.

My thoughts and best wishes are with Richard’s family and colleagues at this difficult time.

Jeremy Rosenblum

Robert Jones

Posted on October 19th, 2006 at 1:22 pm

Richard was a very remarkable man – one of the most clear-sighted and far-sighted that I’ve ever met. And yet not an ounce of pretentiousness or preciousness, totally unintimidating, and always wanting to learn rather than to dictate. I’ll miss the fun of creating ideas with him, and the world will miss his developing thoughts on what’s coming next – on just how different this century will be from the last one. What’s so sad is that he was able to experience such a short space of time in this new century.

Trevor Field

Posted on October 19th, 2006 at 2:10 pm

Richard I had the pleasure of several different working relationships with you at different companies but there was always one constant:-your humour,energy and undeniable force.
Ive no doubt you’ve shared some good ideas with St.Peter already.

Simon Woodroffe

Posted on October 19th, 2006 at 2:13 pm

This is terribly sad news – I got a message from James and I had a premonition something terrible had happened. It is so easy to say he was special but for me he was an inspiration and that doesn’t happen so often for me- although we were the same age I saw him almost as an elder in wisdom and kindness but also determination and intelligence. A very lovable person – I met his family in Malta and my love goes out to them all – I hope you will live up to his spirit have have a great great life after you have grieved and shared your sadness…..

Julie Meyer

Posted on October 19th, 2006 at 3:01 pm

Richard Duvall was one of the world’s great entrepreneurs, an extremely good friend, a lover of life, and someone whose legacy of ideas, relationships and impact on the world will endure through the friendships and companies he’s brought to life.

He spoke at Ariadne’s 5th Year Anniversary Evening this past January, and for those of you who missed it, here he is: http://www.ariadnecapital.com/journal/v6e1/house_of_ariadne/ariadne5thanniversary_video.htm

We would get together and talk about how someone, so why not us? – should update the Royal Society for the fascinating period of time that we are living through. If anyone ever believed that the best way to change the future was to invent it, it was Richard.

He was one of the most polite clients I’ve ever had. He would thank me extensively for the small steps in a big win, and has known better than anyone how I could be helpful in pulling something off.

It was always a pleasure to have Richard take the floor in an Ariadne dinner party. People who were otherwise tired would be held spellbound as he talked to them about the Individual Revolution, what Zopa was doing, how he felt about what was going on in the world etc. He was a commanding orator with that very special touch of intimacy.

I remember when Richard walked me through his career leading up to Zopa, from his first job to launching Zopa. Very very few individuals can be as good as he was at such diverse areas of business. Very few people keep the human touch when they are as successful as he was.

I can’t think about this, but start crying. He was such an exceptional human being.

Daily Networker » Blog Archive » Richard Duvall

Posted on October 19th, 2006 at 3:05 pm

[...] Richard was the founder of online lending exchange Zopa, and before that Egg.  As this moving message on Zopa’s blog reminds us, he was also much more than that. [...]

Darren McKenzie

Posted on October 19th, 2006 at 4:28 pm

Tragic news and such a great loss. I’m deeply sorry to hear this news. Worked with Richard at Egg and I’ll always remember him for his warm and infectious smile. He always made me laugh and was one of lifes true inspirations. Thoughts go out to the family

Duncan Cheatle

Posted on October 19th, 2006 at 4:52 pm

Richard kindly spoke at one of our earliest speaker events. He inspired a room full of fellow entrepreneurs talking about the Individual Revolution and the creation of Zopa at a time when Richard, James and co had literally just launched.

It was a memorable evening just as he is a very memorable man.

Duncan

Tom Ilube

Posted on October 19th, 2006 at 5:16 pm

16 years ago I was sitting at my desk at Coopers & Lybrand, London when a chap called Richard sidled up and said “I’ve just won a consulting job in Abu Dhabi, starts tomorrow, you wouldn’t mind hopping on a plane for a few months would you, old chap?”. Well, who can resist Richard when he’s full on? I jumped at the chance to work with you and we have been close friends ever since.

There are so many times you have lifted and inspired me and so many times I have heard your call and followed without question. From Coopers to Pru Banking, to Egg, to The Salty Dog in Boston (oh yes!), back to Egg and then back into the entrepreneurial world. It has been a real joy.

I will miss you, Richard. Partner to millions. Partner to me.

Marcus Ezekiel

Posted on October 19th, 2006 at 5:30 pm

I am so sorry to hear about Richard. He was just a fantastic guy and totally inspirational. I am so lucky to have worked intensely with Richard for a few months on the Egg France launch. Most of my abiding memories of him are proped up in the Gare du Nord hotel bar at 3 AM trying to work out how he could still think so rationally at that time of the morning. And of course endless crazy taxi rides across Paris in turn philosophising,laughing and negotiating usually in that order. He was fantastic for his little sayings that would stay with you for months and keep coming back even now.

I wish his family,friends and the team at Zopa all the best. The last thing Richard said to me a couple of months ago as we said goodbye in some tube station was “just ask for whatever you want”. That was Richard all over. Unstoppable.
Richard will be remembered by thousands of people for the rest of their lives. He has left a lot of power in the world.

Jay Bhattacharya

Posted on October 19th, 2006 at 5:33 pm

Incredibly sad news and a loss for a new generation of bankers. I met Richard recently and traded emails with him for a while. He was always as open minded and welcoming of input as one could be. His perspectives on lending game me a new context for business thinking.

Amazingly, we initiated our discussions via an email that I sent from the Zopa website.

A truly remarkable person.

Philip Cullum

Posted on October 19th, 2006 at 6:55 pm

I first met Richard last year when we shared a platform at the Royal Society of Arts on customer service. He was definitely the ‘star turn’ on the panel, speaking with real passion and shedding new light on the subject, with obvious authority, expertise and charm. He had such a fresh approach to what people want out of businesses that I waited eagerly for the transcript of the session and then quoted him in an NCC report on customer service, citing some of the things he did at Egg & Zopa as examples of good practice for others to follow. This summer, when we held a seminar on customer service with the leader of the opposition David Cameron, Richard was an obvious person to invite, and once again he gave a challenging and persuasive perspective. His loss will be felt by many people on a personal level; on a professional basis his innovative thinking and commitment to consumers will be greatly missed too.

Philip
National Consumer Council

Sarah Isherwood

Posted on October 19th, 2006 at 9:00 pm

As part of The London Speaker Bureau I would like to send my deepest condolences to Richard’s family – such terribly sad news.

I have known Richard in the capacity of a speaker – he came to meet us all one day last year and boy… he blew our socks off – what a wonderful witty intelligent gentleman. He was universally and overwhelmingly positive and inspiring. Thank you for sharing part of your magical make-up with me, our colleagues and clients. You will be greatly missed.
With deepest sympathy

Sarah

NiceGuy

Posted on October 19th, 2006 at 10:04 pm

I am stunned at this news.

Richard was the sole reason I trusted Zopa enough to join initially and although I never had the privilege of meeting him personally, his warmth shone through everything Zopa stood for.

May Richard watch over Zopa to become a truly Global force and be a just tribute to his foresight and ingenuity.

My heartfelt condolences to his family.

Pema Radha

Posted on October 19th, 2006 at 10:18 pm

I met Richard whilst working at Egg and he has permanently been an inspiration and a source of support to me ever since.

I think his type of genius is irreplaceable and I am full of sadness that the world has lost such a special, talented, loving person. Most of all I am thinking of Krys and the children and I can’t imagine how they must be feeling.

He gave everything he had for others and we owe it to him to fulfill our potential and make him proud.

Donna Tschetter

Posted on October 19th, 2006 at 11:23 pm

God Bless Richard and his vision.

He will be there with you all at Zopa from beyond, as his vision is realized – you can count on that.

In sadness and admiration,

d.

John & Wendy Schratz

Posted on October 19th, 2006 at 11:29 pm

We were both saddened by the news of Richard’s passing and our heartfelt sympathies go to his family. We both had the pleasure of working with Richard at Egg for a number of years, having left the company of conventional bankers at HSBC to join the ranks of the well, quite frankly, barking mad at Egg! In my first interview with Egg, I (John) recall being asked by Richard ‘…I am less interested in your CV, more interested to know your favourite drink and, take your time, because the answer counts?!’ Well what do you say to that? A Mohito I answered, and that was it…we shook hands and in I came as the commercial director. If only life could always be that simple, that outrageous, that unforgettable.

We drank many a Mohito during our spell of working together and many a Resolve Plus the morning after to quash the hangover, but they were special times. And it was Richard that made them so. We will miss him enormously; that outrageous, unforgettable, gentle giant of a man. The world is a better place for the time he shared with us.

kittyhello

Posted on October 20th, 2006 at 2:48 am

I feel really sad at this news. It’s a big loss for the P2P world.

A Friend in Every City » Blog Archive » Zopa - a leader in Net Ingenuity and matching

Posted on October 20th, 2006 at 8:36 am

[...] Zopa will continue with its plans for growing the business. As their company blog noted on Tuesday – “His passing leaves us all with a hole in our lives that is uniquely Richard. He is irreplacable and yet we, and Zopa, must move on without him. Zopa will continue to be led in the UK by James, and our San Francisco team continues to work towards launch in the US. Our Chairman and our investors remain totally committed to the success of Zopa and believe that we are well positioned for strong growth in the coming months. [...]

Denys Shortt

Posted on October 20th, 2006 at 9:01 am

Admired from afar, Richard was a true inspiration to me – a fellow entrepreneur. My thoughts go out to his family – it has all happened so quickly. I have made a donation to Cancer Research. Denys

Emma Hackforth

Posted on October 20th, 2006 at 10:43 am

Richard is the reason I bought my last company and funded all the start up cost myself thru a personal loan form Zopa. I listened to him talk to Simon Woodruff and he just gave me such vision and passion. I can’t quite believe he is gone….so sorry for your loss, he will be missed by people he had never even met

Judith Firman

Posted on October 20th, 2006 at 10:49 am

Richard was, and is, a shining star. Look up and you will see him. With love, Judith

Claire Tasker

Posted on October 20th, 2006 at 10:01 pm

How greatly saddened I was to hear of Richard’s untimely death.

It was my pleasure to take care of the logistics for his corporate speeches. I was fortunate to see him speak once, and every delegate was charmed by him, blown away by his vision, and like me, they were helped to understand some of the changes in the world were made by and for people like us – the Individual Revolution.

He never complained if I called him at some ungodly hour, not realising where he was spreading his message around the world. He was one in a million.

My deepest condolences to Richard’s family

Alan South

Posted on October 20th, 2006 at 11:15 pm

One of those special guys that gets everyone around him to raise their game that one notch higher than they thought they could.

Thanks, Richard, for inspiring me to raise my game.

Alan

Keith Richbell

Posted on October 21st, 2006 at 11:32 am

This is the saddest news. I knew Richard by reputation in the industry and had the pleasure of meeting him for lunch on 6th July this year. His warmth, good humour and clarity of thought were the qualities that most impressed me during our meeting. This is a terrible loss to the world and my thoughts are with his family and his many friends.

Robert McDermott

Posted on October 21st, 2006 at 1:32 pm

Dear Richard,

As you know I’m not that great at showing my emotions and certainly not at writing how I feel. But because you effectively taught me how to write back in 1989 when we were at C&L, I thought I would write to you one last time.

As you’ll recall, when we met all those years ago I was going through a very challenging period in my career. Although we were both at the begining of our careers you took me “under your wing” and spent many nights and weekends of your own time helping me to overcome those challenges. Your sheer determination, energy, drive and sense of humour was so infectuous that I couldn’t help but be successful after following all the advise you had given. Your kindness, friendship and influence was to change my outlook forever and also my waistline after numerous evening trying to change the world over a pint or two. I truely felt I was in the company of someone who was going to make a difference in people’s lifes.

When we met (for a pint!) 18 months ago you were telling me of the new and exciting things you wanted to do with the next phase of your life. It sounded slightly far out but deep down I knew if anyone could bring these ideas to life it would be you.

Now we come to today and as I look at all the wonderful things people have said about you I cannot help but shed tears of sadness and joy because I can see that you were gifted with special and magical qualities which you not only shared with me all those years ago but also with many, many others all around the world. People like you come around very rarely in one’s life and I can say with all certainty that I am truly blessed and proud to have had the priviledge of knowing you and being able to call you my friend. I will never forget you and what you taught me.

Rest in peace Richard.

Premal Shah

Posted on October 21st, 2006 at 7:52 pm

I’m deeply saddened about the loss. Richard took time out of his busy schedule on 2 occassions to meet with me and the rest of the Kiva team to help us out. He was a generous, passionate leader who recognized the good things in others. Our condolences to his family and the Zopa team for this loss. Richard, the world is a better place because of you — you will be deeply missed.

Leon Benjamin

Posted on October 22nd, 2006 at 12:38 pm

I didn’t know Richard well but admired him for swimming against the tide by trail blazing with a new form of investing — “one that recognizes the power and the lessons of the market to address profound and seemingly intractable social issues” Zopa is one of very few Businesses For Good.

Jamie Murray Wells

Posted on October 22nd, 2006 at 4:06 pm

Richard was and continues to be an inspiration to all young entrepreneurs. I am extremely sorry to hear this sad and sudden news and extend my deepest sympathies to Krystyna, the family, and everyone who knew Richard.

Rob and Sally Kendall

Posted on October 22nd, 2006 at 9:48 pm

Richard
Words fail. You gave us so much, and we laughed with you so often. Your vision was to be a partner to millions, but you gave us all much more. You blessed us with your friendship, and we will forever love and honour you for that.
Rob and Sally x

Tony Russell

Posted on October 23rd, 2006 at 12:06 pm

Nothing anyone can say can help at times such as these. We can only honour you by remembering just what you added to each of our lives, both professionally and personally. I was privileged to be a member of the original IT Management Team at Pru Bank/Egg and I don’t think any of us had previously encountered anyone with your vision, flamboyance and sense of fun. I am sure that none of us will forget those IT Dinners on the Waterfront, when the tablecloth often became a design document.
You created an environment which allowed us to grow as both individuals and as a team, capable of meeting the challenges of impossible deadlines. There were no barriers, only the belief that anything was possible.

Richard, very few people can genuinely say “I created something that made a real difference” –

You did.

Tony

Brendan McLoughlin

Posted on October 23rd, 2006 at 12:07 pm

I was never actually introduced to Richard when I visited Zopa the week it was launched.

I remember he was behind a huge pile of paper, hard at work. I was struck by the enormity of the task he was facing and how amazing it was that Zopa was successfully taking on the banks.

That hard work has paid off and I’m sure Zopa will continue to grow as a shining example of how people should do business in the digital world.

My thoughts are with all those who knew him.

Ronia Bamann

Posted on October 23rd, 2006 at 12:34 pm

He was a truly gifted human being – in his ability to corral people, to make them laugh and inspire through his creative thinking. And so generous with his time – he was genuinely interested in people and would offer his wisdom on life when he thought it helpful. I feel very fortunate to have worked with him. Over the past few years, there are many occasions when I have pondered “how would Richard have dealt with this situation?”. His inspiration is lasting.

David Buckley

Posted on October 23rd, 2006 at 2:00 pm

Dear Richard

I am deeply saddened to be writing this knowing that you will never read it: But probably without realising it, you have had a profound influence over my career at a very critical stage.

Back in the late 1980′s, when I was working for the Plessey Company plc, you were working on the European Security Study at Coopers & Lybrand as a consultant, with Marco Kapp, Alan Stanley and Rod Perry. As Plessey was a sponsor of the project, I remember visiting the C&L team in London for a debrief. One thing led to another, and we ended the meeting in a bar near the C&L offices having consumed far too many beers and talking as if we had known each other for years. To cut a long story short, I ended up with a job at C&L working with you, Marco and Alan as we established the European Security Forum.

In the early days at C&L, you and I worked on a number of projects together (I remember you famously devising a risk management methodology on the way down to present it to a client), and at all times you were both inspirational and great fun to work with. I remember that we devised playful nicknames for the client staff that we worked with, and I remember the pleasure of working with you on this and many other projects that made the long hours we spent at Coopers great fun.

In later years we changed divisions and sat opposite each other in the office, and I recall that you derived much amusement from the slow and stilted conversations I would have shouting down the telephone to one of my clients in Hungary, and I also recall the hours we spent “wheezing” (your word, not mine!) about business development ideas. Your catchphrase at that time was “I’ve got a wizard wheeze!” When I finally parted company with C&L in 1994 to join Goldman Sachs, I remember you telling me that my move was saving you a fortune in beer and that Krys would be delighted by the new found contribution to the housekeeping budget! Over the years we spent many a happy evening recounting the stories of the day, devising new ideas and hearing that infectious laugh of yours as the beers slipped down.

Richard, you always were a good and trusted mentor and friend. I would trust you to keep confidences in a way that I would with no other colleague. Although we have not seen each other for some years, knowing that you were around, and seeing your success from afar was good enough.

I know how devoted you were to your family; you talked lovingly about them often. They will miss you terribly, I know. I hope that once the grieving is past that Krys and your children will derive great strength from the husband and father who has been an inspiration to us all.

Celia Francis

Posted on October 23rd, 2006 at 2:40 pm

Richard was such huge fun. I don’t think anyone has ever made me laugh to the point of tears like Richard did. I can just see Richard waving my card around with my little green WeeMee on it while joking with the whole dinner table. Richard was the first person I looked out for at the various VC and internet events. He always spoke with so much love about his kids and wife. I went home to spend some time with my kids in his honor when I heard the news.

Azeem

Posted on October 23rd, 2006 at 2:59 pm

Condolences to Richard and his family.

I met heard him speak a few times–he had exceptional energy and was a fantastic scholar. I was incredibly revved after his take on the world. A big loss.

Julie

Posted on October 23rd, 2006 at 9:36 pm

My condolences to Richard’s family and close friends, my prayers are with you. He obviously had a wonderful personality and lived life to the full and he achieved much in such a short time, his family should be very proud. Live for today and don’t worry about tomorrow.

Tim

Posted on October 23rd, 2006 at 11:36 pm

Dear Krys and children

My heart goes out to you all.

Rick was a great pal and inspiration when we went through maths & science A-levels, badminton, tennis and the odd (?)drink or two at Westcliff High.

I was honoured to attend your wedding (what a great day!) and sorry when we lost touch when you moved to Malaysia (the days before e-mail…).

Now I work for the people Rick was trying to disenfranchise (good for Rick!) which sums up Rick’s creativity and my ties to the status quo.

I am devastated.

God bless you and all the children. If they turn out like either of you the world will be a better place,

All the best.

Tim

John Casey

Posted on October 24th, 2006 at 6:21 am

I will remember Richard more for who he was, rather than what he did. Rich was a genuinely good bloke. And that is rare.

Tim Draper

Posted on October 24th, 2006 at 10:26 am

When the world loses a great entrepreneur, we are all left a little more in the dark, since the light they shed on us is so prevalent. Richard’s vision was as extraordinary as any I have ever seen. I hope that in some spiritual way he can celebrate with us as Zopa, the business he provided the vision for, succeeds in revolutionizing the banking industry.

Tony Williams

Posted on October 24th, 2006 at 11:03 am

Inspiration, without doubt; leader, unquestionable; source of irritation, never let me down.
I’m was the ‘old scouse git’ that just loved every minute of working with ‘Tricky’, I will never forget him, and his legacy is there for all to admire.
Love and condolences to Krys and family, you allowed him to be what he was.

God Bless Richard.

TechCrunch UK » Blog Archive » Zopa (re)launches now its bigger than Basildon?

Posted on October 24th, 2006 at 3:44 pm

[...] [sad note: taken from the Zopa Blog dated 17th Oct.] “It is with enormous sadness and regret that I write these words on behalf of everyone at Zopa. Richard Duvall, our co-founder and CEO quietly passed away early on Monday morning, with his family by his side, after a short battle with cancer. We send our heartfelt condolences to his family.” [...]

Asiff Hirji

Posted on October 25th, 2006 at 2:47 am

Egg, Trucost and now Zopa. The legacy of innovation, passion, drive and sheer irrepressible determination to do good for the common person (while still doing well for oneself) is exceeded only by the literally thousands of lives you touched. You made a difference Richard and you are sadly missed. I was privileged to have been able to work with you on these ventures and will keep my promise of doing what I can to help Zopa to success in the US. Sincerest condolences to Krys and the family. A number of us will be raising a pint here in NY to you Richard. Just resist running up to St Peter with your latest new idea my friend

Asiff Hirji
President, TD Ameritrade

Bill Bound

Posted on October 25th, 2006 at 10:29 am

It was a great shock to hear about Richard passing away.

He was inspirational, motivational and always positive. I knew that his career at C&L would not last too long as he had that entrepeneur spirit and I was honoured to act as his boss in C&L and to mentor him in Malayasia as he built the firm out there.

Initially, he developed in the same route as myself from Computer Security to Financial Services but his skills took him into a different and much higher league. Also, it was always an interesting time when I had to act as the assignment partner when Richard was the manager, he produced exceptional quality work and maintained a great team spirit for the guys and gals on the jobs.

I watched his career progression with great interest and saw him a couple of times in his rise to public known status – as before his ideas always flowed. It is such a pity that I went to Australia at a time when I could have worked with him maybe once again in 2002/3.

I still think about those evening beers we used to have to point the world in the right direction (and the curry’s!!)

I pass on my utmost sympathy to his family and I know that the world has lost an inspirational leader.

Philip Buxton

Posted on October 25th, 2006 at 3:44 pm

Hi,

I just wanted to say that, having followed Julie Meyer’s link to Richard at the Ariadne fifth anniversary, condolences to all those who’ll feel his loss far more acutely than anything so trivial as ‘an industry’.

Having said that, just that brief video clip has given us a real insight into what an engaging and interesting (and right!) man Richard has been.

Genuine condolences from all at Revolution.

Philip Buxton
Editor
Revolution

Obi Felten

Posted on October 29th, 2006 at 9:39 pm

Dear Richard,

I only heard the sad news last week and am still in shock.

I first met you in 1999 when you had just set up egg, and I was a young strategy consultant with a passion for the Internet. Later we would joke that my recommendations just about broke even – I told you to launch a shopping portal, which probably lost you a lot of money at the time, and told you not to expand into France, which probably saved you a lot of money at the time (except you did it later anyway). You were the brightest, most challenging and coolest client ever, and when I left the consultancy (on your advice) to join an online start-up, you became a friend.

Over the last 7 years, we met every few months for a beer and talked about ideas, start-ups, your theories of the online economy, businesses we were working on, and how to reconcile being a workaholic with having a family. You introduced me to interesting people – it was always a pleasure to get an invite from you for one of your parties/research projects, because I never knew who I would meet. You joined my art charity start-up (out of kindness rather than art interest, I think) and brought your kids on one of the art outings I organised. You became a mentor of sorts, and I trusted your logic and gentle advice on business and life matters.

Three years ago you told me to finally sort my life out: get a great job, and get married to Toby. You gave me a deadline of 6 months. It took me a bit longer than that, and I started with the important bit: Toby and I have been married a year now. Two months ago when you and I met for what would be my last beer with you ever (in fact you had a cold and drank orange juice), I reported that I now had the dream job as well. You were proud, and asked what took me so long. We chatted about Zopa and Google. I asked you to speak at one of our events, and whether you knew anybody for our B2B marketing job opening (you did, of course). I told you not to set up an online art gallery. We promised to meet up again soon. I find it hard to imagine that I won’t see you again.

You are one of the most inspiring people I have ever met. I will remember your blue sky ideas (sometimes weird and crazy, always interesting), amazing energy, sense of humour, and ability to make things happen. And I will truly miss you.

My huge heartfelt condolences to Krys and the kids.

With love and best wishes,

Obi

Mark Carrington

Posted on October 30th, 2006 at 12:08 am

As one who worked with Richard in the early days of Egg and watched how he helped developed the amazing consultants at Mitchell Madison Group he was using, I can only attest to his rare abilities.

He will be missed and I offer my condolences to Krys and his family.

Keith Backwell

Posted on October 30th, 2006 at 2:16 pm

A remarkable guy, Richard was unfailingly good humoured and inspirational. Missed by everyone who knew him – and remembered fondly.

Kylie Wright-Ford

Posted on October 31st, 2006 at 1:34 am

Richard first inspired me during an lecture on social entrepreneurship organized by Charlie Leadbeater at the SAID Business School in Oxford. He left such an impression that when our paths crossed during my post-study career I took the first opportunity to have coffee with him. Gladly, I spoke with Richard a number of times in the last year and was always glad to hear his latest developments with Zopa. Richard was generous with his time, quick with a smile and just great fun. Sincere condolences to his family and loved ones.

Matthew Pitteway

Posted on October 31st, 2006 at 2:03 pm

It is difficult to express what kind of impact Richard has made on my life. I grew up living next door to Krys and Rick and used to baby-sit for them whilst still at school. Rick’s great love of life and dynamic personality are the things I most remember about him. I send my heart-felt condolences to Krys and the rest of the family.

Liz Gratton

Posted on October 31st, 2006 at 3:39 pm

I worked with Richard at Egg, and like many people fell a bit in love with him (dont tell my husband!). He was such a good man, with so many endearing qualities. I will mostly remember his funny little giggles, the little bounces he would do when up to mischief (frequently!) and his constant call for the revolution to begin. It is hard to get your head around somebody so full of life just not being here any more, but I am sure we can count on him to be stirring things up from on high.
The world was a better place for having Richard in it.
To Krys and family – I am very very sorry.
Liz x

Martin Ladbrooke

Posted on October 31st, 2006 at 9:14 pm

As a commercial leader Richard was both innovative and brilliant. He will be remembered by many of us as the true creative source and inspiration for the original Egg business…..the Egg business that transformed so many of our lives.

You were a real one off mate. Everyone liked you, and your wit and sense of the mischievous brightened up our days through the tough days and evenings of 1998.

God bless.

Julia Maeda

Posted on November 1st, 2006 at 9:13 am

My desk at Egg was across the aisle from Richard’s and it was always a better day when it started with one of his amazing smiles.

What a loss. My condolences to all those who loved him.

Jx

Ian Jordan

Posted on November 1st, 2006 at 4:11 pm

Those who worked with,and for Richard at Prudential Bank and Egg will remember the gentle-man,as much as his undoubted achievements and intellectual brilliance.There are numerous gifted intellectuals,there are numerous kind and generous souls,few had the combination of the two,which Richard had in abundance.Equally receptive and helpful to the Chief Executive or the tea lady,never anything less than courteous and willing to help,share or advise,Richard will be greatly missed to all those he has come in to contact with,however fleetingly.Somewhere,on another plain some people will be very lucky to welcome Richard into their fold,our earth plain is the lesser for his passing.

Beth and Chin

Posted on November 2nd, 2006 at 2:09 pm

We were shocked and saddened to read the news. Working with Richard was great fun and although we haven’t met up for a while, we always assumed we would some day soon.

Condolences to Krys and everyone else who is missing him.

Alan Robinson

Posted on November 3rd, 2006 at 10:35 am

Very sad news. Three distinct memories of working with Richard. First one the day after Egg launch in the Irish Bar in Derby with Pete and Richard walked in and said “Let me buy you a drink – I didn’t think you guys would deliver middleware for launch but didn’t say anything!” – cheers Richard – that pint tasted really good! Second one on a typical Egg conference call about something ambitious – I think it was putting a call centre in Strasbourg. Richard said something like “Why don’t we make it 10 times as big and then when we go into France, we can support that too”. I tried to make some intelligent comment (difficult for me) like “what does that do for the business case, Richard?” and his reply was “Oh come on Alan – you’ve been here long enough – we just made those numbers up!” – lovely! Third one was related to something that happens a lot when your name begins with “A” as you are often first on many people’s mobile phone directory – if someone inadvertently hits the directory button and then the ‘send’ one, they call me without realising. I received a number of calls from Richard in the early hours when he was still around a hotel bar somewhere having one of his famous “Who would you most like to…?” sessions with other night owls – interesting listening and funny..!! His fun and incredible positive approach to evertything touched us all. Cheers.

Chris Stephenson

Posted on November 3rd, 2006 at 7:24 pm

Have only just found out and am shocked and saddened by Richard`s death . I knew him at Egg and the Pru and all the accolades applied to him were true . The Financial services industry has lost a great innovator but more importantly a genuinely nice guy.
Condolances to his family and to his friends

Shabana

Posted on November 5th, 2006 at 6:49 pm

Rest in peace

Liz Soutar

Posted on November 6th, 2006 at 11:02 pm

I’m just emerging from a haze after losing my father 6 weeks ago only to discover yesterday this sad news about Richard. I know how much his family meant to him and my heart goes out to all of them. Hugs to all the wonderful people at Zopa too who have lost an inspirational leader and friend. If we could all be a little like Richard, the world would be a better place. Liz x

Anne Bruce

Posted on November 8th, 2006 at 1:34 pm

What a sad loss, I remember Richard well from egg.
He was always super-charged, overflowing with friendliness, enthusiasm and curiousity. He packed a lot into his short life.

Kelly Bayliss

Posted on November 9th, 2006 at 10:43 am

I was saddened to hear the news. We spent so much time together back in the Egg days. Richard was a great leader full of fun and passion. I think about him often, particularly about the time we did our take on Grease, one of the funniest memories for me was watching him dance! I have watched the footage again and had a giggle. I am sure some of you Egg people will remember well.

My condolences go to you Krys and the children. I am sure you will miss him every moment but what a great man and what a great impact he has left behind him

Kelly xx

Peter Stevens

Posted on November 13th, 2006 at 12:03 pm

I’ve just learnt this morning of Richard’s death and feel totally stunned.

I worked with Richard for 2 years or so back in the days of Prudential Banking, and enormously enjoyed his energy, insight, great people skills and boyish good fun. Since then I’ve watched from the sidelines the progress of Zopa, and couldn’t help but be impressed. Well done Richard I would say to myself.

And now this awful news.

I never met Richard’s family, and can only imagine how they must be feeling. My thoughts are with them.

Brian Gilmore

Posted on November 14th, 2006 at 3:24 pm

I guess writing something here is really writing it for me and for you who are reading it. Richard doesn’t need it. I will write anyway.

I heard that Richard was ill 2 days before he died. I have just read on the Zopa website the news that he has now died. I sit here crying writing this.

It’s not as if I spent loads of time with Richard when he was alive. But I guess time spent with someone has little to do with the impact they can have.

Richard – you’ve made such a difference to me and my life – you know that – I just want others, and your family, to know that.

I met you first when you came to speak in the evening to the group of people I did ‘Sense’ with at a Shrewsbury hotel. You stood (on crutches with your foot in a cast) and spoke to us all. I was inspired by you, your authenticity, your commitment, your passion and what you said. I went up to you (at the bar) and shook your hand and told you that it was the first time I’d been inspired by anyone for a very long time. Thank you. Life looked different after you had finished speaking. I knew that with people like you in the world the world was ok. You showed me that you could be brilliant and make a groundbreaking practical difference and still be fun, compassionate and wonderful.

I think at the time what I loved about you so much was that you were such a key person at Egg and yet you always made time for a chat with me. The way you valued me by giving me that time helped me alter my thinking about myself and think that maybe I was really valuable. Up until that point (underneath all the bravado) I hadn’t really valued myself. Now I do. Thank you for helping me see who I really am.

We spent a weekend together doing a course which was a communication course but which was often dubbed the ‘love’ course. After that I think we always hugged when we met. I miss those hugs. Wherever you are now – consider yourself hugged.

Your ‘outrageous’ thinking (it seems perfectly normal to me now) and new ways of seeing things inspired me and it has filtered through in everything I do. Through me you are impacting many many people who have never had the privilege of meeting you in person. You continue to make a difference even though you are physically not here.

Richard I remember vividly one day you were speaking to Egg Marketing, CRM etc. at an away day when you’d just come back from a US trip where you’d essentially been exploring the future and what was possible next. You were inspiring – as always. You asked me to take on having everybody back in the room from the break on time. I managed it (going a little bit over the top as I remember it – including almost physically lifting Pema into the room whilst she was still on the phone to somebody important in the media. Sorry Pema!) When everyone was settled down you could begin again. You asked everybody in the room who was afraid of me to raise their hands. Pretty much everyone did. You jokingly raised your hand too, flashed that wonderful smile at me and laughed.

Well I’ve got a question for everyone reading this. If you love Richard Duvall and he has impacted your life…. raise your hand. See – hands of leaders raised all over the globe. And there are people who haven’t got their hands up who have been impacted by you – they just didn’t know it was you behind it all. Yet others who are not yet born who will be impacted by you and will never have had the joy of knowing you.

Richard – you are beautiful.

My great fortune to have met you.

The world may be without you physically now but the conversations that you have started and inspired and the people you have inspired will continue shaping this world for many generations to come.

Thank you.

I have a quote that I think sums up some of your contribution to me:
Love is like playing the piano, first you must learn to play by the rules, then you must forget the rules and play from your heart. Author Unknown
Thanks for showing me the access to the world beyond ‘rules’ and showing me that playing from your heart is the only worthwhile game in town.

I’ll miss the jumpers.

Krys – we met once, briefly – I hope that you and your family can find some peace at this time. I heard a true story about a man dealing with the sudden death of his son which helped me while I was dealing with the death of my father in a car crash from which he never regained consciousness. Maybe it will help you. About a year after his son’s death this person returned to public speaking. He stood in front of the assembled people and said:

“I have some good news. I’ve been to the bottom……. and the bottom is solid.”

This is also my experience.

Yours, in love,

Brian

Kerry Ritz

Posted on November 27th, 2006 at 12:33 pm

Hopefully this comment (albeit late) will find its way to Krys and the family.
Having just reconnected with richard a few months ago, i was really saddened to hear about his death. His energy, enthusiasm, boundless optimism and his passion for making a difference will be truly missed.
His legacy will be inpsiring people to do extraordinary things. Hopefully people will keep that idea as a lasting memory.

Kerry

Daniel Rix

Posted on December 12th, 2006 at 11:49 am

Whenever I think of Richard I recall a man who was passionate about his family, possesed huge integrity and always respected those of us who didn’t have his skill. I liked Richard from the instant I met him, his wonderful humour, informality and above all his genuine warmth. My thoughts are with your family Richard.

Ailse MacFarlane

Posted on December 13th, 2006 at 5:47 pm

I have only just found out that Richard passed away and I am shocked. I worked with him at Egg for 6 years and he was the most inspirational boss and leader I have ever worked with. I have thought about him and read what he is doing at Zopa with interest and I think many many people will have been touched by him. All meetings were conducted with Richard in his socks, leaning back in his chair- completely relaxed and full of ideas. RIP. x

John Handby

Posted on December 16th, 2006 at 11:52 am

I have only just heard this sad news. I had the privilege of working with Richard at Glaxo some years ago and was greatly impressed by his ideas, intelligence, zest for life, creativity etc etc. He was a great guy and I am so sorry to hear of his early death. My thoughts are with his family at this time.

francois Loizeau

Posted on December 26th, 2006 at 5:46 pm

Met him once in egg France. I’ve never forgotten the energy, the passion and his ability to anticipate today what would be revolutionary within 10 years.

“chapeau bas Monsieur Duvall”

Zopa blog

Posted on January 8th, 2007 at 11:42 am

[...] As you may be aware, Richard Duvall, our co-founder and CEO, passed away in October shortly after being diagnosed with Pancreatic cancer. [...]

Jim Woods

Posted on January 30th, 2007 at 11:24 pm

I just went on the zopa website to find out how Richard Duvall and zopa were doing. A wave of sadness overcame me – he’s one of the truly inspiration leaders in business, leading through focusing on others rather than himself. I met him on a few occasions, the most recently being when he shared a bacon sandwich listening to a busiess idea (it was lousy). People who find the time for others like that are in a truly special place. Thanks Richard, and good luck to the zopa team.

Ruth Mortimer

Posted on February 8th, 2007 at 11:08 am

I was very, very sorry to hear this news. I only knew Richard in a professional sense but I liked him enormously; I wrote about Zopa when it first started and met Richard a number of times at Egg. He was always great fun and very quick-witted.

I was away at the end of last year and missed this news completely. I was thinking of getting in touch with Richard today and went online to see what he had been up to, where I found out this very sad news. All my condolences to all his family, friends and workmates.

Doug

Posted on February 20th, 2007 at 6:02 am

I have only been researching Zopa, and I learned that the dynamic mind behind it passed away. I can only think that all I have read about the man has had one consistent theme – that the regular person’s life would be improved. We should all combine such high wattage ideas with helping others.

adam smith

Posted on April 12th, 2007 at 12:34 pm

I was away at the end of last year and missed this news completely. I was thinking of getting in touch with Richard today and went online to see what he had been up to, where I found out this very sad news. All my condolences to all his family, friends and workmates. info

George Sorof

Posted on April 19th, 2007 at 4:50 pm

I liked Richard from the instant I met him, his wonderful humour, informality and above all his genuine warmth. My thoughts are with your family Richard. good!

Dave

Posted on May 16th, 2007 at 5:30 pm

My condolences to all those who loved him.

Community Networks in Social Lending Space? | Social Lending Watch

Posted on June 2nd, 2007 at 11:57 pm

[...] Summary A good effort by the person-to-person lending pioneer. We look forward to the company’s U.S. launch while passing along our regrets to the recent passing of its founder Richard Duvall (memorialized in this Oct. 17 Zopa blog entry).” [...]

Ian King

Posted on June 19th, 2007 at 4:07 pm

Have only just heard of Richard’s death and wanted to pass on my thoughts and condolences to his family. As a classmate of Richard’s at Westcliff High School it was obvious then that he was bound for great things.

Linda

Posted on October 16th, 2007 at 10:44 am

Richard was always going to be a hard act to follow. One year on and there’s still a big hole at Zopa – remembered by us all today.

Amanda Lamble

Posted on November 7th, 2007 at 1:48 pm

Richard was such an inspiration and helped develop my recruitment career in 99 when I first started working with him at Egg, and subsequently he led me into many other areas. I always thought he was brilliant and so passionate about what he did.

My sincere condolences to his family one year on.

Lawrence Neech

Posted on December 3rd, 2007 at 10:52 am

I have only just recently heard this news from Al.

I had only a few conversations with Richard but worked with him through Pru Bank and was part of the Egg launch team… Many late nights and tall deliveries – that was the norm. Energy was constantly high and we were all engaged in a challenge that, at times, didn’t seem plausible.

But when Richard was around or chaired a meeting or invited us to the pub he took us higher, energised us and instilled a confidence and belief in everyone of us. Suddenly there was no fear, no doubt…

His sense of fun was never far from him – I remember a cringe worthy lift ride with him and Mike Harris after one particularly unfortunate interview I gave with Computer Weekly, during which I must have gone on about Egg culture, it was very embarrassing and Richard never missed an opportunity for a gentle reminder.

I have used my recollection of Richard a few times over the past year when encouraging colleagues to embrace the challenge and see the possibility. It alwayes warms me and energises them. To think that he was no longer with us on these occassions fills me with sadness but it feels right to use his memory as a metaphor for the spirit of adventure, the spark of genius, the warmth of confidence in self.

My sincere condolences to his family.

makeup » Blog Archive » Sad News From Zopa

Posted on September 1st, 2008 at 1:48 am

[...] Visit http://blog.zopa.com/archives/2006/1…-hardest-post/ [...]

Monevator

Posted on January 7th, 2009 at 2:10 pm

Just found this sad news via the orbits that are Google.

At least his memory lives on in one of the cleverest financial innovations for years. What an inspiration.

I hope his family are coping as best they can with their loss.

Ronia Bamann

Posted on December 5th, 2010 at 6:56 pm

So Sad