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Subject: In Memoriam Posted by: Guru - [330592710] Mon, Dec 11, 09:03 It is with great personal sadness that I report that Paul Scheirer ("philliephan") passed away yesterday of a sudden heart attack. He was only in his mid-40s, and leaves a wife and two children, a daughter (13) and a son (11). In additional to being an active, competitive, and helpful fantasy sports enthusiast, most of you know that Paul produced a very helpful fantasy hockey stats site. In fact, some of the current RotoGuru features were inspired by similar features at Paul's hockey site, including the Sched-O-Matic. Paul was also instrumental in providing me with some early assistance in fully automating the sortable stats. And he has been an active contributor to the message forum since its inception, where he has many, many friends who will sorely miss him. Most of us only knew him though the internet, but at times like this, we all understand how personal those relationships can become. I am awaiting word about a designated charity for memorial contributions, and I will post that information when I receive it. Meanwhile, I'm sure all of our prayers go out for Paul's family. | ||
| 1 | Perm Dude ID: 55845197 Mon, Dec 11, 09:07 |
Shocking. Thank you for the post, Dave. Paul was very helpful throughout the boards, always lending a hand and voice, even on the Politics Forum. Fred (pd) | |
| 2 | walk ID: 481133813 Mon, Dec 11, 09:08 |
Thanks for letting us know, Dave. This is shocking and sad news. While I fell into the group of only knowing Paul "via the internet (and email)," he was a nice guy with a great sense of humor. He also put in a lot time helping folks like me enjoy myself more (at work!). I am so sorry this happened -- his family must be beside themselves. Please let us know what you find out about contributions. Thanks, - walk | |
| 3 | jumpball ID: 4644339 Mon, Dec 11, 09:17 |
I had the pleasure of losing to Paul in both baseball and football in our company divisions the past two years. He will be missed. | |
| 4 | StLCards ID: 4210462812 Mon, Dec 11, 09:19 |
I am deeply saddened by this news. He was a great contributor and even though my interactions were only through these boards you could tell he was a good person. His family must be devastated. I'm sure many of us fit this age group and recognize our own mortality. Hopefully, we can let his family know just how much the rotoguru family will miss him as well. | |
| 5 | Makisupa ID: 38113856 Mon, Dec 11, 09:23 |
Thank you Dave for passing along this information. The suddeness of this event reminds me how fragile life is. I am glad that I took the time to personally e-mail Paul to thank him for all his work and contributions on the Hockey boards. It makes jokes like "wife wants to talk more" and "my kids are mad at me for hogging the computer" not seem so funny. Guru, is it possible to take up a collection of some sort to send flowers to his family from our community? He gave so much time to us, I think it would be appropriate to give thanks to him and his family. | |
| 6 | Species ID: 58412510 Mon, Dec 11, 09:23 | It's funny how even the death of someone you only knew on the internet can be so painful. I will miss Paul. My most deepest condolences to his family.... | |
| 7 | Sigh ID: 27828912 Mon, Dec 11, 09:29 |
Sad news indeed :-( May he rest in peace and hopefully he will not be forgotten. I didn't know the guy, but I respect all the work he did here. I think I'll close the computer for a day and spend some time with my family... | |
| 8 | hoops boy ID: 27105289 Mon, Dec 11, 09:29 | wow...I don't know what to say. Paul was a great guy, and while I knew him only though the internet like many of you, we had talked about other things outside of fantasy sports and had hoped to meet in person some day...definitely a sad day. | |
| 9 | steve houpt ID: 59695 Mon, Dec 11, 09:31 |
All I can say. Shocking news. Sad news. Will be sorely missed here. His family must be shocked. My thoughts go out to them. Please let us know what you find out about contributions. Thanks for the info Dave, steve | |
| 10 | jumpball ID: 4644339 Mon, Dec 11, 09:32 |
As Paul's co-worker (I can't bring myself to say "former" yet), I'd be honored to be the point man for donations. But I suggest that we wait and see what the family wants to do. If they decide that contributions should be made to a charitable organization, it might be easier to make the contributions directly. | |
| 11 | Tuques ID: 31837207 Mon, Dec 11, 09:45 |
Je voudrais offrir mes plus sinceres condoleance a la famille de philliephan, c'est la seul facon que je le connais.... Je ne le connais pas autant que vous, mais je partage votre tristesses... In the name of the French connexion on the Board, all our sympathie to philliephan familly... Tuques P.S. Sigh, good idea, turning the PC off for a day and spending time with the people we love... | |
| 12 | Teddy ID: 33935119 Mon, Dec 11, 09:49 |
This is a very shocking and sad Monday... Please sent my most deepest condolences to his family... Paul, we will miss you! Teddy | |
| 13 | J ID: 50726110 Mon, Dec 11, 10:02 |
Wow. Shocking. Paul was a great guy! I, like many of us, never met him, but he was always willing to help me whenever I asked for anything, whether it be with my macro's or with his sartibles. He will be missed deeply. I would definitely get in on any kind of contributions, or anything. He will definitely be missed immensely. | |
| 14 | JeffG ID: 40451227 Mon, Dec 11, 10:05 |
I am deeply saddenned by Paul's passing. Someone who like many of you, I only know from these boards. My thoughts are right now with his family, friends, and and all others who are mourning his loss. How can we eulogize someone who we never met. Someone who we think we know but barely did. I reviewed some of his posts, especially on the baseball board, and thanks to the filter, found the "just for fun, top ten signs" thread, where philliephan had many posts. It points to this simple truth. The reason we are saddenned and will miss Paul is simply that he is much like us. We share his deep interests in sports, his passion for these fantasy games, his good natured competitiveness, and his desire to be a positive contributor to this online community. I am sure there are many more dimensions to Paul, as there is all of us, that we just do not see here. I am just greatful to those that spend the time in these forums and am saddenned that one of them will not be here anymore. | |
| 15 | jumpball ID: 4644339 Mon, Dec 11, 10:11 |
Since I know Paul, let me give you some insight. Paul was an early riser, arriving at work at 7AM every day. When I arrive, about a half hour later, I'd grab a cup of coffee and wander by his cube. He would ALWAYS be looking at stats or on the message board! We'd usually spend about 10 minutes to a half hour talking SW strategy and comparing teams. I got him interested enough in the LRV concept during baseball season that he started one of his own in hockey. It was as much fun talking about who was going to lose the most money as it was to talk about who was going to gain the most money or get the most points in the next few days! I'd usually wander back to his cube just after the price changes to gloat on occasion, but more often to tell him that he was right on target with his predictions. He left regularly at 4PM to pick up his kids and become the consummate family man. There was no stress in his life (other than his SW addiction!). I have worked with Paul for over 3 years now and have been looking upwards at him in the divisional and gurupie standings for 2 baseball seasons and 1 football season (he plays hockey and I play hoops). This year I have a 1200 point lead on him in football . . . and now I won't get to enjoy it. Now it's time to refresh my coffee and try to get some work done . . . I sure wish there was a route to the coffee machine that doesn't pass by his cube. Everything is just like it always is . . . except that the chair is empty . . . | |
| 16 | GoatLocker ID: 48944616 Mon, Dec 11, 10:12 |
I like many only knew him on the boards, but like many am shocked and saddened. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. Please keep us informed of anything that we as a community can do to help. I too think I will turn the computer off for a day and spend the extra time with my "Better Half" Cliff | |
| 17 | Species ID: 58412510 Mon, Dec 11, 10:20 |
Thanks for sharing, jumpball.... It's times like this that all of those "God works in mysterious ways" explanations just don't hold water. | |
| 18 | Makisupa ID: 38113856 Mon, Dec 11, 10:39 | Yes, jumpball, thank you for painting a picture of Paul for us. I am sure this is a difficult day for you as well. My condolences. | |
| 19 | Harkonnon ID: 4453220 Mon, Dec 11, 10:40 |
Bye Paul ! | |
| 20 | du ducks ID: 151033308 Mon, Dec 11, 10:48 | My deepest condolences and sympathies to his family. May god give them the strength to carry on with their lives, while Paul always remains with them in their hearts. | |
| 21 | KrazyKoalaBears ID: 91136511 Mon, Dec 11, 10:50 |
To say that I am shocked and saddened would not even begin to convey how I feel right now. Though I never knew Paul on a personal level beyond the message boards, I, as well as the rest of us, know that he was someone special. Always ready and willing to help without the need for anything more than a "Thank You". Things just won't quite be the same. Thanks for everything Paul. | |
| 22 | QB ID: 5884559 Mon, Dec 11, 10:51 |
Thanks jumpball that was really nice of you to let us glimpse a piece of his life that we never had a chance to know....I just wish it never took this to open our eyes (so to speak). These boards will never be the same without him, especially these hockey boards. I am still shaking my head after reading all this, it just won't sink in that one of our good "friends" won't ever be with us again. May he rest in peace and be the tops in all his sports games from now on. And all my heart felt warmth goes out to his family, especially his children. We miss you Paul, Scott Kube | |
| 23 | Madman/Sadman ID: 610552719 Mon, Dec 11, 11:02 |
May his children grow up and remember what a good man their father was. This is truly sad news. | |
| 24 | nords ID: 11014117 Mon, Dec 11, 11:19 |
I am very saddened to hear of Paul's passing. I did not know him personally, but through his humerous/informative/supportive contributions to these boards, I gained a great respect for the man. I would like to express my extreme condolances to Paul's family. Jumpball, please keep us updated on how best we can show our gratitude to his family for sharing Paul with us. Sean | |
| 25 | Danny Boy ID: 15839810 Mon, Dec 11, 11:28 |
I hardly knew Paul, but yet I can't stop the tears from welling up in my eyes... this is shocking, this is horrible... this is awful, and so unexpected, God that is horrible... Dan | |
| 26 | aiko aiko ID: 35612614 Mon, Dec 11, 11:30 |
our guru of hockey, truly sad news. i wish his family the best. this type of news helps put many things in perspective. -pavel | |
| 27 | john ID: 161153913 Mon, Dec 11, 11:30 | i didnt know paul , but still i feel a closeness thru hockey . i was touched when i read about his passing . my thoughts go out to his family . | |
| 28 | jumpball ID: 4644339 Mon, Dec 11, 11:45 |
JeffG, I've got that thread. Can you think of any others? I'd like to put something together from the Gurupies to give to his family (especially his son, who had both SW baseball and football teams this year). All, Any contributions of philliephan staments would be appreciated. Let me have 'em. | |
| 29 | Adams G-men ID: 258222114 Mon, Dec 11, 11:55 | jumpball, what a thoughtful gift!!! I'm glad someone thought of this. His kids may not appreciate it as much now, but take my word for it, they will cherrish their father's words and sense of humor on these boards.... I lost my mother some years ago, and I still read though some of the letters and notes she use to write to me while in College... I think what you're doing is a great service to his family, I know they will always appreciate it. It is something his kids can show their kids, so they can get some sense of how wonderful thwir grandfather really was. | |
| 30 | MasterMind ID: 36113857 Mon, Dec 11, 11:55 |
I knew Paul only throught the boards. As this is only my second year on the boards I looked up to philliephan as one of the guys who always made important contribution to fantasy hockey, and hockey in general. I respected his opinion and appreciated the input he obviously had in all our lives, even through something like a hockey draft. My best wishes to the family! God Bless! | |
| 32 | rugg ID: 559271312 Mon, Dec 11, 12:02 | Awful news for all of us, even we who only knew Paul on the boards. He did tons of work to make this game better and more fun for all of us. I too thank jumpball for the insight into the person. It must be terrible for the family. I'm glad I took a moment on occasion to say thanks for the work on the stats sight. I think I'll do that more often in other areas of life. You just never know. My prayers are with Paul's family and friends. | |
| 33 | Chris ID: 54499 Mon, Dec 11, 12:03 |
First of all, let me say that Paul will be missed greatly and my thoughts go out to his family. I will miss the humor he brings to these boards. We now need a new chairman of the ABC(anti-BORG Committee) ;-) Farewell Paul, rest in peace. | |
| 34 | Richard ID: 1719313 Mon, Dec 11, 12:10 |
My best wishes and prayers go out to philliephan's family. Any passing, but especially one as sudden and unexpected one as Paul's, leaves a confusion, sadness and regrets in it's wake. My prayer is that Paul's family can hang onto the good memories and remember him for the wonderful man, father and husband that he was. I will truly miss his hockey insights and his willingness to help others on this message board. Paul (philliephan) you will be missed. Richard | |
| 35 | Dr. Doom ID: 431124912 Mon, Dec 11, 12:29 |
My deepest sympathy goes out to Paul's family and friends. I have a heaviness in my heart that is hard to explain for someone you hardly knew. I will miss philliephan, his contributions and insights. Dwayne | |
| 36 | Sludge ID: 1440310 Mon, Dec 11, 12:29 |
Maybe the competition on Earth wasn't stiff enough for him, and he's just moved up to a tougher division. Rest in peace. | |
| 37 | Feazdaddy ID: 18832013 Mon, Dec 11, 13:01 |
My thoughts and prayers will be with him and his family. He will truly be missed. Fantasy games just don't seem so important when you get news like this. It reminds you of what little time we actually have. Chris | |
| 38 | bookie ID: 4111388 Mon, Dec 11, 13:06 | Shocking and sad news, I almost passed right by this thread. Glad I decided to open it. It is touching to note the support from a great group of people, most of whom have only met via this forum. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. | |
| 39 | Josh Gibson ID: 3111181113 Mon, Dec 11, 13:18 | Wow.....I just heard about this from a local friend that uses these boards. My condolensces (sp) to his family. | |
| 40 | Willix ID: 1186209 Mon, Dec 11, 13:22 |
I have not dealt with death much in my life. It is hard for me to accept, especially when life is taken at an early age. Unfortunatley it takes something like this for us to remember how fragile and short our time here is. From my dealings with philliephan on these boards, I could tell he was a good man. He was genuine and would go out of his way to help you. He will be missed................ -Scott Wilcox | |
| 41 | philflyboy ID: 2844635 Mon, Dec 11, 13:22 |
I have been reading this thread on and off all day trying to figure out what I wanted to say. I am another who did not know him personally but I am thankful for the help that he has given to me through the stats, insights and posts that he had given. He also helped me with some spreadsheet problems when J was on vacation and smallworld made another of there famous changes. My prayers also go out to his family. The encouragement and concerns shown by my fellow gurupies are what make this a special place. Thanks for being a part of my life as well as a Paul's. God Bless | |
| 42 | JeffG ID: 40451227 Mon, Dec 11, 13:35 |
Here are some threads of note on the baseball boards where philliephan's participation showed why we have all paused to remember and honor his memory. Just for fun, top 10 signs philiephan announced as guru jr philliephan doing week in review while guru jr odd trading and price changes explained philliephan's top 10 reasons to click an ad for guru | |
| 43 | Mark ID: 12572113 Mon, Dec 11, 13:36 |
Sadly, all of us that knew Paul will miss his quick wit and sense of humor. I personally shared a cubicle wall with Paul at work. There were many times when we would trade tips on who was a bargin player. We also shared the common pleasure of a Redskin lose. My dog passed away suddenly in the spring and she was also a smallworld participant and I remember how he would laugh when she passed me in the standings. We all miss you Paul, its way too quiet at the office now. You must have needed a more challanging smallworld league. Mark | |
| 44 | JeffG ID: 40451227 Mon, Dec 11, 13:45 |
Here is how Philliephan described himself in the forum registry: click here Father of two children one girl 13 and one boy 11. The guy who does the hockey stats since the Guru is still pissed about the the Whalers leaving Hartford (Well, Dave SAYS he just isn't a hockey fan and is busy enough with basketball and football.) 1999 Baseball Smallword 4th WWR 1999 Baseball CNN/SI 3rd WWR 99-00 Hockey CNN/SI 5th WWR 99-00 Hockey SW 67th WWR Oh, and my favorite teams are, oh I will just let you guess | |
| 45 | Ed S ID: 50558911 Mon, Dec 11, 13:46 |
Just a note to express my condolences to Paul's family and friends from another who only knew him and appreciated his contributions through these boards. RIP Paul. Ed Sanderson | |
| 46 | Murph ID: 6814922 Mon, Dec 11, 13:50 |
Its always sad when a young and energetic person is taken out of the blue. I just hope that his family will be able to make due in his absence. Best wishes. Brian | |
| 47 | BooHoo ID: 311146512 Mon, Dec 11, 13:52 | best wishes to paul's family | |
| 48 | jumpball ID: 4644339 Mon, Dec 11, 13:55 |
JeffG, thanks for the links. I had missed the "odd trading" one . . . a classic! | |
| 49 | Frank p ID: 471151114 Mon, Dec 11, 14:05 |
Goodbye Paul, I will miss your quick wit and friendly responses to my posts, and I will always appreciate your willingness to help an Aussie hockey novice. You truly deserved and earned our respect. My condolences to family and friends. | |
| 50 | ClevelandRocks ID: 5011131114 Mon, Dec 11, 14:13 |
i have no idea how to react. I "know" him thru the baseball boards, and that for less than a year. yet still the news hits hard. my prayers are with the family. | |
| 51 | smiles ID: 4811231114 Mon, Dec 11, 14:24 |
This is a sad day for our us, Paul will be missed and my deepest sympathy for his family. This is my 2nd season in SW hockey, and 1st season in SW baseball. Paul's post were entertaining and informing, wish ya the best pal :) τΏτ . ~ | |
| 52 | simbot ID: 571113721 Mon, Dec 11, 14:27 |
Sorry to hear about this tragic news. Best wishes to his family and close friends. I think we should have a division in memory of Paul every hockey season for all gurupies. | |
| 53 | Tuques ID: 31837207 Mon, Dec 11, 14:29 |
jumpball, I'm quite shure you already think of that but I'll said it anyway... A copy of this thread should be include with all the other ones, so Paul's familly could read us and really know how we all like Paul's in our way... Tuques | |
| 54 | SteveO ID: 44833219 Mon, Dec 11, 14:29 | Barely knew you. Always knew I was doing well in these games if I saw Philliephan just ahead in the standings. My sincere condolences to his family. | |
| 55 | Perm Dude ID: 55845197 Mon, Dec 11, 14:45 |
It should also be noted that Paul was Blue Hen, Jr. for a week, though he was far too modest to wear the title when posting. At least, that's my theory, anyway. pd | |
| 56 | Texas Flood ID: 12458220 Mon, Dec 11, 14:47 |
what can we say at a time like this? i lost my best friend the same way 5 years ago. it always seems like such a waste when good young people pass on. my thoughts and prayer's are with philliefan and his family my god be with them. if a memorial is established please post it on the borads i would like to contribute, thank you TF | |
| 57 | Jay-P ID: 299331420 Mon, Dec 11, 14:52 |
My best wishes and prayers go out to Paul's family. I will truly miss his hockey knowledge and how quick he was to help out on the boards. My deepest condolences to his family. Paul, you will truly be missed but never forgotten. J.P. | |
| 58 | walk ID: 481133813 Mon, Dec 11, 14:57 |
It seems that not only did Philliephan have his "philly-rupies," but his entire floor at work also played fantasy sports. Someone else at that job is going to have to pick up some serious slack. ;-) What a well-liked man. Obviously, to all of us, A Good Man. I have been sad all day since reading Dave's announcement. If I think about the number of times I "talk to" my dearest friends over the past few years, combined, they do not add up to the "conversations" I had with Paul. I did not know him deep, but I certainly interacted with the guy a lot. Our forum here, to me, has spawned a whole different kinda friendship, and it's good. Different, but good. Paul, I finally beat ya at SOME fantasy sports game (baseball playoffs, but that's only because you were still picking Phillies' players in the NLCS), but I will ultimately have an overall losing record against you. Sure wish there would have been more opportunities. I will miss your good-natured quips, teasing and support. :-( walk | |
| 59 | Baldwin ID: 25440222 Mon, Dec 11, 14:59 |
Does anyone know his son's gurupie handle? Did I miss it or hasn't it come up? I have no interest in Hockey [which wouldn't have endeared me to Paul of course] but he made enuff of an impression in the other sports that I certainly took notice of him in rankings and in postings. We will miss an elder statesman and lord of fantasy sports. If only there were a universal law that noone died before he finished raising his kids. A friend of mine...in fact a girl I almost married...died a few years back. She had juvenile onset diebetes and so wanted to survive long enuff to see her daughter graduate that she set what is as far as St. Francis hospital knows [the best hospital in central Il.] was the record for oldest surviver of juvenile onset diabetes in Illinois history. Sadly we don't all get that chance. Jumpball please let his family know that they will always have friends who remember him and are pulling and praying for the success of his family. Let the rest of us remember the eerily correct words of Walter Payton while in his playing days...'Tomorrow is guaranteed to no man'. RIP fallen great ones. | |
| 60 | Caper ID: 22534138 Mon, Dec 11, 15:01 | One of the true class acts I encountered on this site. My heartfelt condolences to his family. He touched many people with his insights, dedication and truly helpful tools. He will be remembered. | |
| 61 | Donky ID: 55442220 Mon, Dec 11, 15:04 |
Philliephan's final thread was 'Stats Delay'. How ironic. It is always a shock when a person dies at a young age. As a part of the Gurupie community I send my deepest condolences to the family of Paul Scheirer. You are not alone in your grief. I would like to quote from Kahlil Gibran's The Prophet because these words are so great. Then Almitra spoke, saying, We would ask now of Death. And he said: YOu would know the secret of death. But how shall you find it unless you seek it in the heart of life? The owl whose night-bound eyes are blind unto the day cannot unveil the mystery of light. If you would indeed behold the spirit of death, open your heart wide unto the body of life. For life and death are one, even as the river and the sea are one. In the depth of your hopes and desires lies your silent knowledge of the beyond; And like seeds dreaming beneath the snow your heart dreams of spring. Trust the dreams, for in them is hidden the gate to eternity. your fear of death is but the trembling of the shepherd when he stands before the king whose hand is to be laid upon him in honour. Is the shepherd not joyful beneath his trembling, that he shall wear the mark of the king? Yet is he not more mindful of his trembling? For what is it to die but to stand naked in the wind and to melt into the sun? and what is it to cease breathing, but to free the breath from its restless tides, that it may rise and expand and seek God unen- cumbered? Only when you drink from the river of silence shall you indeed sing. and when you have reached the moun- tain top, then you shall begin to climb. and when the earth shall claim your limbs, then shall you truly dance. ------------------------------------- | |
| 62 | The Left Wings ID: 55105317 Mon, Dec 11, 15:09 |
I know I've only been here for a couple of months, but I'm as shocked as any of you. As most of you would have the same experience of going into a new place or joining a new group, there are always a few people in the group that you would look up to, and Philliephan is one of them to me. Although we hadn't really conversed a lot on the forum, I had tremendous respect for what he said, what he did and what I heard he did. His dedication to hockey was impeccable. His insights and other contributions will truly be missed by all of us. As he had been a constant here since I came to this place, this message board will not be the same to me again. If there is going to be mid-season hockey pool this season, I suggest we set up a team in memory of Philliephan. We can also dedicate the two current message board teams to him. My best wishes to his family. LW | |
| 63 | Drunk ID: 30112019 Mon, Dec 11, 15:17 | As a rookie fantasy sports participant, I have only just met Phillephan, however it was immediately obvious to me that he was a class act and a true sportsman. I'm certain that his insights helped me on more than one occasion, and for a complete stranger to help another is one of the most sincere forms of generosity. I didn't know Phillephan, but I miss him already. As the Christmas season approaches, I hope someone who knows him better, and is a little more computer literate that I will set up some sort of a fund to provide a small source of happieness for his family. I'd be honored to contribute. | |
| 64 | Jehu ID: 434511020 Mon, Dec 11, 15:22 |
well i can't even describe what i'm feeling now. the thing that stands out the most in my mind when i think of philliephan was all the times that i or another gurupie needed help, and he was always there to provide it for us. i also did not have the privilege of knowing him personally but i always appreciated his advice. i still can't get over the fact that he jumped right over me from 6th WWR to 5th on the last day of last year's CNN/SI hockey season, but i guess it shows you how great of a gurupie he was. I will truly miss him and my condolences go out to his family. Jason Chan | |
| 65 | Matt S ID: 57543213 Mon, Dec 11, 15:43 |
What I felt while reading the first post by Guru is almost inexplainable. Kind of a sinking feeling... This board has lost one of its most respected members. And he will be missed. I would also like to apologise for the rest of the Gurupie community to Paul's family... For taking up so much of their husband's/father's time. Every second is precious and should be treated with the utmost care. I guess this also explains why a trade proposal in our Sandbox league has gone unanswered for more than a day. I thought that was strange... Paul, you will be missed. Matt Stiles | |
| 66 | Kariya009 ID: 3011401018 Mon, Dec 11, 15:47 | It is clear that Paul has had an impact on many people, even on those that he has never met. I hope his family is able to get through this ordeal and I hope he knew just how much all of us appreciated him and his help. | |
| 67 | EmbarrassedHawksFan ID: 3458721 Mon, Dec 11, 15:58 |
wow, what terrible news this is to start the week. i have never posted in the hockey forum, but i know paul well from baseball. i would have say my fondest memory of paul was when he would sign posts prbhj (philliphan reluctant blue hen jr). he was always full of wit and enthusiasm and he will be sorely missed. | |
| 68 | blue hen ID: 34937217 Mon, Dec 11, 16:11 |
Not much to say, really. A great man reaches a sad ending. I hope we can at least take some lessons from his life. As for Post #55, the truth is that I admired his work greatly... | |
| 69 | Dev ID: 5511501116 Mon, Dec 11, 16:51 |
I don't even know what to say. I pretty much echo what everyone else has said. He was a great help to everyone. How setting up a board team in an upcoming sport named after him? | |
| 70 | Pistol Pete ID: 2041038 Mon, Dec 11, 16:55 | My deepest sympathies to Paul's family. I am moved by this sad news. I thank God for giving me the pleasure to have known philliephan albeit solely through the message boards. He will be greatly missed by many as evidenced by the kinds words in this thread. May our friend rest in peace. | |
| 71 | Snap ID: 3810141710 Mon, Dec 11, 17:24 |
I would like to offer my deepest condolences and sympathies to his family. Sincerely, Jade | |
| 72 | ksoze ID: 131026218 Mon, Dec 11, 17:38 |
To Paul's family I offer my sincere condolences and best wishes. What a tragic loss. David | |
| 73 | James K Polk ID: 114581215 Mon, Dec 11, 17:46 |
I always admired and looked up to philliephan, and I wish I could adequately express how saddening this news is. But this is one of the few times I feel at a loss for words. I hope his family is able to find some measure of solace in this time, and to know that Paul will always be watching over them. Paul, we will miss you. -- Ryan Pitts | |
| 74 | Gary ID: 381157822 Mon, Dec 11, 18:18 |
Paul's presence on the boards will be missed. While he won't be with us physically lets always remember that his contributions to our enjoyment of fantasy sports can and will be remembered for years to come. My heartfelt wishes goes to his wife and children and I myself will miss his input greatly. Paul you will be missed, Gary | |
| 75 | blue hen ID: 34937217 Mon, Dec 11, 18:20 |
You'll be missed... Dave (Blue Hen) | |
| 76 | mets ID: 74452111 Mon, Dec 11, 18:26 |
You were a good man Paul. You always wanted to help out anyone and have a good time doing your thing. We will miss you. -mets | |
| 77 | Taxman ID: 04491215 Mon, Dec 11, 18:38 |
Thankyou Paul. For your friendship and shared interests. For your remarkably level attitude. For your warmth and humor. Your endless attention to detail on your (our) hockey board. For being our friend and fellow Gurupie. For the daily display of those human qualities which attract many of us to these boards. For your sportsmanship and values. For caring. Thankyou Paul. Donny Miller | |
| 78 | QB ID: 5884559 Mon, Dec 11, 18:50 |
I have put a request in to Dave (our fearless leader) to see if there is a way of maintaining this thread at the top of this forum since this is where Paul was most appreciated for all his hard work for us... I may post another thread for us to use as a petition. QB | |
| 79 | Pete S. ID: 25933319 Mon, Dec 11, 18:57 |
Shocking and Sad News. Hats off to a kind soul whose insightful/humorus postings and indispensible stats site enabled a scrub like myself gain any semblance of respectability in SW hockey. This board feels like a community to me and he was one of the elder statesmen and will be missed. My deepest sympathies and condolences to his family, -Pete | |
| 80 | Ali ID: 2161966 Mon, Dec 11, 18:58 | I am Sorry. | |
| 81 | elprimochino ID: 198541119 Mon, Dec 11, 19:02 | Oh my god, this is very tragic. I am sure Paul will enjoy his afterlife in Heaven. | |
| 82 | edperl ID: 574561212 Mon, Dec 11, 19:08 | Found out the tragic news today at work. Like many others have stated I feel I have lost a friend even though I had no direct contact or ever met Paul in person. My prayers are with his family as they deal with their grief. I'd like to think that in the whole realm of Life and Death there is a higher reason Paul is gone, and his passing serves a greater purpose. | |
| 83 | Slowhand ID: 5114049 Mon, Dec 11, 19:30 |
Although like most of us I only knew Paul through the message board and his invaluable stat site; I found tears in my eyes many times as I read this tribute to one of our own. Philliephan;you will be missed. To his family and friends I offer my sympathy and my prayers ... | |
| 84 | The Beezer ID: 20982322 Mon, Dec 11, 19:38 | Thank you, Paul, and I hope that I can carry on your example of helping others and enjoying life. I wish the best to your family in these impossible circumstances... | |
| 85 | Chifan873 ID: 414101310 Mon, Dec 11, 19:42 |
Thanks to Paul for the insights he was so willing to share via the message board (the only place I knew philliephan). He always seemed to be one step ahead of the game. Paul, you will be missed greatly. Thoughts and prayers to his family during this most difficult time. Sheryl Hurst | |
| 86 | slimer ID: 2644430 Mon, Dec 11, 19:48 |
wow, i don't know what to say really....i didn't know philliephan thru hockey but i did have to opportunity to read his informative posts in baseball. this last baseball season was the first time for me on these boards and philliephan was one of the first to stick out in my mind...i knew he was good at fantasy baseball (muskrat told me) and i always paid attention to where he was in the standings...i remember this last year he started off slow and i thought "what is up?" but it didn't take him long to catch up and pass everyone. my heart goes out to his family...this is truly a sad day...you will be missed, paul. brian | |
| 87 | LTA ID: 511571119 Mon, Dec 11, 20:08 |
I'm not sure that I can really add anything more that has not already been eloquently expressed by my Gurupie bretheren, but after reading the daily blurb, I felt compelled to seek out this thread and post to it. Paul, I only knew you through reading your posts, but I always appreciated your insight. It strikes hard at the core of the comraderie that we work hard at developing on this board when someone like you passes. I think that the best way to show that he will be missed is to try as hard as we can to take up the burden that he bore here, and that has now been laid down by his passing. You will be missed.... Lance Adams | |
| 88 | skinneej ID: 07162116 Mon, Dec 11, 20:13 | After reading the shocking news this morning, I have been in a reflecting mode all day not sure of what to say. It is apparent from all the posts above, that many of us felt we knew Paul enough to call him a friend. While we didn't know him as his family, friends and co-workers did, we knew him through his kindness, his willingness to help, his humor and his wit. I don't follow hockey as close as other sports and I am not a regular contributor to the hockey forum. I don't play SW hockey, but I started playing Echelon (now Swirve) hockey last season. Paul invited me to join the division last season and again this year although I was not sure I was going to play again. As always I am looking up in the standings to his team, and I would not be surprised if I still don't pass him. If I do I may have to sell all my players so that things will still be as they should be. We miss you, Paul. | |
| 89 | BillB ID: 49442321 Mon, Dec 11, 20:18 |
Words cannot begin to express my shock and sadness...Philliephan's passion of both SW fantasy games and Philadelphia sports are only exceeded by his devotion and love to his family. Paul, we will miss you and always remember you. Bill Burke | |
| 90 | Tim G ID: 36116920 Mon, Dec 11, 20:37 |
I always found Paul to be friendly and helpful to everyone on the boards and his work on his hockey stats site was known to all. He also had a great sense of humor. I remember a thread about about nicknames where he called himself p-hill-iephan, and said that he just liked hills. He will be missed but not fogotten. | |
| 91 | yankeesRule ID: 3611221121 Mon, Dec 11, 21:27 |
My respects goes out to Paul "Philliephan" and all of his family. yR | |
| 92 | Wiley ID: 91152419 Mon, Dec 11, 21:29 | Goodbye Paul | |
| 93 | Roo ID: 3210171420 Mon, Dec 11, 21:48 | After 92 posts there is very little original left to say. The feelings and tributes above are testament to the impact he had on many lives through these forums. I am sure that his impact on the people he "really" knew, especially his family and friends, was much greater, and hope that the collected thoughts of so many of us bring those people some comfort at this terrible time. | |
| 94 | ssoong / Arclight ID: 3982284 Mon, Dec 11, 21:58 | I hope Paul's family will be able to see the effect their husband / father had on an entire community of friends he had never met. Paul's tremendous contributions to our little world will be sorely missed. May he Rest in Peace. | |
| 95 | AznIverson ID: 255301622 Mon, Dec 11, 22:12 | bye paul | |
| 96 | Code Cracker ID: 8446221 Mon, Dec 11, 22:25 |
Paul was always helpful to me whether it was what trade to make or how to do something on the web. Everytime I pulled up the sortibles or schedule viewer I thought of him because he was responsible for making it happen, 7 days a week throughout the hockey season, no exceptions. What dedication! To the Scheirer family: Your father/husband was a great man and role model as you already know. I am lucky to have known him. | |
| 97 | rugg ID: 58447423 Mon, Dec 11, 23:23 |
I must say that after reading all these posts that I am touched by the level of caring that so many have for a person few of us has met. By no means do I mean to pat us gurupies on the back, but I feel a renewed sense of the ability of people to feel compassion and express empathy for others. Despite this tragedy, Paul has found a way to, at least for me, to show us how much positive impact one person can have on so many lives, and that we have the ability to come together as a community. For that, I thank him. Scott | |
| 98 | Peter N. ID: 481063011 Mon, Dec 11, 23:28 |
My prayers will be with his family. Life is excredibly fragile . It makes you extremely thankful for what you have. You will be missed Paul, Peter Nash | |
| 99 | ¤ Mario LeMoose ¤ ID: 5711291123 Mon, Dec 11, 23:29 | The Great One's spot (#99 on this thread) belongs to philliephan. | |
| 100 | peterl ID: 45420316 Mon, Dec 11, 23:45 | Sincere condolences to his family. Thoughts and prayers for philliephan. | |
| 101 | ¤ Mario LeMoose ¤ ID: 1411591123 Mon, Dec 11, 23:59 |
Thank you, Guru, for providing the arena that allowed us the opportunity to get to know Paul, and now to share our grief. As is the case with most of you, I too shall miss philliephan's wry sense of humor, his expertise, and his tireless efforts to help us enjoy the fantasy side of sports. On a personal note, I shall miss him dearly as my friend and my mentor. With great fondness, I still recall the late weeks of the 1999-2000 hockey season, when the message board team was struggling to maintain a position among Small World's top 100. There was very little input from other Gurupies, as many had lost interest, were too occupied with their own teams, or had turned their attention to baseball. Paul literally guided me by the hand and we spent the last days of the season, down to the final minutes before each deadline, comparing notes and trying to use what trades were left wisely. That was typical philliephan … always there when he was needed, always ready to give of himself, always the "team player." My heart aches deeply for his family, for his co-workers, and for all who regarded him as a friend. I feel privileged that his life touched mine. ¤ Christine ¤ | |
| 102 | Lutefisker ID: 4010452422 Tue, Dec 12, 00:02 |
Philliephan... You will be missed... To you I offer no sadness and no tears for I believe that you are in better health than you have ever before been in and you are in a better place and can even now see your wife and children. I do offer my condolences and my tears to your children, your wife, your friends and associates and for myself, in that we will not be able to experience you again in this life. Good journey my friend!! | |
| 103 | *Jessica* ID: 574112114 Tue, Dec 12, 00:21 |
Farewell Paul, as you embark on a very special journey. What an incredibly difficult time for your family, but I have no doubt that you are watching over them this very moment, helping to give them the strength and the courage they'll need to carry on without your physical presence. Be at peace my friend, knowing that the lives you touched are richer for it. Godspeed. *Jessica* | |
| 104 | spachalagu ID: 51912417 Tue, Dec 12, 00:25 |
A lot of emotions just flooded through me. Fantasy sports have come to mean loss for me. My best friend got me into Pursue the Pennant Baseball years ago, and fantasy sports became a consuming passion with us. My best friend was born with Cystic Fibrosis. He made it to almost 30 because of the fun he had in these "silly" games. But I can't put together a lineup without thinking of him. Now, another good man connected with my hobby of choice is gone too young. It's an all too familiar ache I'm feeling right now. It echoes off the hollow places left behind when my best friend left and resonates through you all that much more harshly. If any members of Paul's family read this, there is something I would like you to know. I know you probably thought this was a bit of a goofy pasttime, but it's a marvelously simple pleasure in an all-too-complicated world, and it made Paul really happy. Paul wasn't willing to settle for personal happiness, though. By setting up that website and sharing his knowledge, he tried to share his happiness with others. The gift of happiness is one of the most precious gifts a human being can give to another. There are few better legacies a person can leave behind more wonderful than to say a man made a lot of people happy. And Paul did. Paul, you've probably met my friend Grady by now. He's the one in the Capitals jersey and UVA hat. You'll enjoy your new league. Grady will show you the ropes up there, just like he did me down here. | |
| 105 | costanza ID: 421132120 Tue, Dec 12, 00:32 |
Wow. As I've read this touching thread throughout the day, I've tried to think of the right thing to say. I can't say that I have, but couldn't let the day pass without at least echoing the sentiments expressed in such a heartfelt manner throughout this thread. To the Scheirer family, jumpball, Guru, and everybody else who had the pleasure of meeting Paul in person, my condolences. Thank you, Paul, for all you've done for us. Your presence will be missed. George Tsuji P.S. Not that I want to deflect attention from Philliephan, but his passing made me reflect on how much I enjoy this board, and the fact that everybody here is to thank for that. I'm not going to mention specific names, as I know I can't mention everyone, but to all the Gurupies out there, a sincere thank you for the guidance and the entertainment that this board brings. It's unfortunate that sometimes it takes circumstances like these make one remember how much everybody's contributions can mean. | |
| 106 | Fosten ID: 29427106 Tue, Dec 12, 00:58 |
As most of you have expressed, I too am at a loss for words. I found these boards over a year ago when I was browsing through the SW message boards. There was a note there from Paul advertising his hockey statistics site and I emailed him for some advice. He told me all I needed to know could be found at rotoguru.com, and I haven't looked back since. This is the first "internet friend" I've ever lost, and its a wierd feeling. I don't know much about him. I mean, I wouldn't even know him if I passed him on the street. But I always looked forward to Paul's advice and will truly miss having him around. Much prayer and love to his family. I'm sure he'll be using his first complementary heaven hockey tickets to watch Super Mario's return. And still telling God the Flyers are better. lol. Damn, I'll miss you Paul. Brian Davis | |
| 107 | Meti ID: 5192947 Tue, Dec 12, 01:09 |
My condolences to your family and your friends. We will miss you. -M | |
| 108 | azdbacker ID: 2710201719 Tue, Dec 12, 01:33 |
philliephan, my prayers are with your family. Obviously, you were deeply liked by many people who you never met. A pretty nice tribute to a man that he can impact so deeply those that don't even know him. I have never posted on the hockey boards, but I will miss your presence come baseball time. If the family is reading, our prayers are all with you. | |
| 109 | beastiemiked ID: 145191710 Tue, Dec 12, 02:21 | Don't quite know what to say, was shocked to learn about his death. And despite not knowing him to well other than reading his posts, his insight and humor will be greatly missed on the boards. My deepest sympathies go out toward his family and friends. | |
| 110 | RebelFan ID: 14833716 Tue, Dec 12, 04:18 |
After reading these thoughts all day long and feeling moved each time, I still don't know what to say. I spent minimal time in the hockey forum but grew to respect Paul throughout the baseball season. His posts both made me laugh and think. My thoughts and prayers go out to his children and his wife, and I hope you are truly in a better place. All everyone above has said, you will truly be missed. David A.K.A. RebelFan | |
| 111 | Bevo ID: 441119124 Tue, Dec 12, 04:19 | My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. | |
| 112 | Sam ID: 204251611 Tue, Dec 12, 04:46 |
Thank you Philliephan, for your efforts and insight over the years. May you Rest in Peace, and God Bless your family. Sam Reeve. | |
| 113 | Presidents ID: 389642 Tue, Dec 12, 04:57 |
Paul, thank-you for everything you have done for us all. You will be missed, now rest in peace. To your family, thanks for letting Paul share himself with us. May God bless and comfort you in your time of need. Jeff McKinley | |
| 114 | El Tel ID: 117443011 Tue, Dec 12, 05:53 |
What shattering news.Heartfelt condolences to family and friends. El Tel | |
| 115 | Mike D ID: 111158910 Tue, Dec 12, 06:02 | Thanks to Jeff G for bringing back just a few of the great philliephan threads. Bantering back and forth with him was always a treat. One that will certainly be missed. | |
| 117 | Bubba ID: 6816256 Tue, Dec 12, 07:57 |
As I sit in sadness over the loss of a great man and kindred soul, I remembered the first time I came across the handle philliephan. It was during the 1999 baseball season, when he was perched atop the Gurupie rankings. I remember thinking "Who is this guy? He's good!" I quickly realized that not only was he good at fantasy sports, but he was a good person. Philliephan was the model gurupie to me: warm, witty, helpful, insightful, and dedicated. Paul, thank you for the gifts of your help, patience, and wit (I could go on and on). You have helped make this little corner of the world we know as the forums a wonderful place to visit. I will miss you, my friend. May you rest in peace. To the Scheirer family and other loved ones, I offer you my sincerest condolences. It was a privilege to know the special man you loved as husband, father, and friend. We're all very lucky that he was a part of our lives. Fernando T. Viloria (aka Bubba) | |
| 118 | KrazyKoalaBears ID: 1911241111 Tue, Dec 12, 07:59 |
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| 119 | rugg ID: 559271312 Tue, Dec 12, 08:37 | KKB, that is great. It should be displayed proudly. Nice job. | |
| 120 | Myboyjack ID: 4443038 Tue, Dec 12, 08:40 |
Wanted to add my condolences and my prayers. -Jubal Miller | |
| 121 | Ender ID: 13443221 Tue, Dec 12, 09:04 |
I have had a day to feel the weight of this and I am still not sure what to say. I feel the need to post and share my grief and regret at the passing of a fine man and contributor to these boards. As a father and a husband, I also know that as much as Paul did for the boards, it pales in comparison to what he most certainly did for his family. We will miss his sense of humor and his insight, his family will miss him. We will remember him frequently and think of things he said or did for all of us. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family who will miss him dearly. Scott King | |
| 122 | Catfish ID: 71158811 Tue, Dec 12, 09:09 |
Moved by all these responses and warm outpourings to philliephan's death. To his family: he was a valued friend and contributor to this whole crazy group of people who would otherwise be total strangers. Although we are united only by the most tenuous of links -- fantasy sports games -- and 'meet' only online, there has grown a real community of hearts and minds. I never knew your husband or dad -- never would have met him -- but his presence on the message boards and sense of humor was enjoyed by all of us. I hope he got as much out of this community as he gave it. My thoughts are with you at this sad time. -- Annie | |
| 123 | jumpball ID: 4644339 Tue, Dec 12, 09:12 |
KKB, thanks! I'm getting copies of that image now as I post this . . . . well done! | |
| 124 | deepsnapper ID: 404592723 Tue, Dec 12, 11:06 |
This is the most difficult thread I've ever read in these forums. As I gaze through the tears I think back over 2 years ago when I stopped becoming a lurker and really started posting. It was during football season and someone was slamming the Cowboys. I was flaming and philliephan was one of the gurupies who actually started conversing with me. I was touched by a "philadelphia fan" actually talking to a "dallas fan". That began a 2 year correspondence through these boards and email. I soon found out philliephan wasn't a reference to Philly, but an Paul related to me, a combination of: P for Paul + hillie + fan as he loved the mountains so he thought to honor them with his gurupie name P-hillie-fan. His love for his family was evident in almost every note we exchanged. One of the last emails we exchanged was just before football season started and when he was preparing the new stats site for hockey. We were talking about the weather and how hot it was in Dallas in August and he shared a note about his daughter which I'll pass along here in his words. "Hope the Eagles can contend this year, though they always seem to give the Cowboys at least one good game each year, even when they are lousy. Here in Northern VA it was actually quite cool this morning at my daughter's swim meet. Fortunately her dad was smart enough to bring her some sweats which she wore in between events. So I have staved off, a little while longer, being the ignorant father of a teenager." I'm remembering how fullcount and I agonized over his baseball rosters this summer when he took the family on their 2 week vacation into the mountains and a "pay" phone was their only means of communication. I wish I could endure those same feelings again next year. I've never lost a "cyber" friend before. Heck I don't even know if I ever had one before Paul. The ache in my chest and the sadness I feel is as real as when a "physical" friend is gone. I know because I've lost someone close who was a competitor before (fooseball partner). It was December 11, 1977 and he was the victim of a drunk driver. I remember it well because today is my birthday. Now I have Tommy Zinni and Paul Scheirer to remember on this day. My thoughts are with his wife, daughter, son and family members today. I pray for their well being and comfort at this time. I pass along John 3:16 to them knowing full well I shall meet Paul one day. God Bless Paul Scheirer. Your friend, Roy Jones | |
| 125 | devils1 ID: 107452911 Tue, Dec 12, 11:06 | I just want to echo the thoughts and prayers expressed above. My condolences to Paul's friends and family. Godspeed, Paul. | |
| 126 | Dale T. Rates ID: 1611501211 Tue, Dec 12, 11:50 |
Shocking indeed! As a fellow "40-something" with a new-born son, I would imediately like to pass-on my best wishes to his family. I barely got to know him, as I'm one of those "newbies," but none-the-less feel a bond of sorts. I'm a bit fazed. All I can think to add right now, is be careful out there everyone! Peaceful journey on your new path, my friend....Dale ( Greenbelt Hippies, Bottom Feeders and Half-bakers ) | |
| 127 | Strike One ID: 496441210 Tue, Dec 12, 14:33 | Gosh, what sad news. I just looked at this post now and i can't believe what i've read. i never really got to know him that well. I came here during this year's all-star break for baseball. and i visit these hockey boards only 3-4 times a week due to schoolwork and all. i only wish i'd gotten to know him more, because from what i saw, he was an all around great guy. KKB, that's a great banner you have there. is it possible guru to put that at the top of this board? just for the memories. Paul was a great guy, from everyone here at rotoguru, we will dearly miss him. | |
| 128 | YankeesRule ID: 299302812 Tue, Dec 12, 21:25 |
Oh my God! Philliephan and I had our differences and quarrels. But I would like to say that my prayers go out to your legacy and family. Thank you Philliephan!!!!!! < | |
