RIP Mike Bundred. I received the terrible news yesterday that Mike passed away. I am unsure if this is an appropriate post, but I am compelled to honor his passing with a few words.
I had the pleasure of working with Mike for over ten years. Mike ran the European operations for Rogue Wave. Mike did a great job in that role, but that is not what this is about.
Mike was a big guy and could be gruff and intimidating. But underneath that was the kindest man you could ever meet. I have many fond memories of Mike, from trips to London, Paris, and Frankfurt to the club trips he and his wife Jean attended. What I remember most is how thoughtful and generous he was.
One example sticks out. When my son was young, he loved a book called Mousehole Cat, set in a village in Cornwall. I mentioned that to Mike at dinner one night. When he showed up early the following day, he had researched the story, brought me copies of the story behind the book, and printed out a copy of the book. This all happened between 10:30 pm and 7 am the next day. I think about that story often, and that epitomizes the person Mike was.
Sadly, I have not seen Mike since I left Rogue Wave nearly ten years ago. We stayed in touch, but I always assumed I would get to London and see Mike again. I am sad that this won't happen and reminded there are no guarantees in life. Rest in peace, friend.
Tom Gaunt
5th March 2024