Don Valentine is a Silicon Valley legend. Not only was he an innovative investor, he also had the foresight to jump when others hesitated and to understand early on how to coach and encourage young entrepreneurs. The Wall Street Journal tribute captures his spirit.
We stole his idea for the "Sequoia Scouts" program. It's a small tribute to his brilliance and his leadership.
His relationships with Steve Jobs and Nolan Bushnell, among others, were amazingingly influential and formative.
(If you'd like to hear Don's story in his own words, watch "Something Ventured," a 2011 documentary. Great movie.)
I often find it difficult to find a way to both encourage and assist entrepreneurs and also emphasize the achievement required for success. Don's example has always been both inspirational and directional.
He'll be missed. Or, as the Irish say, "We'll not see his like again."