In Remembrance of Tom Huseby

“I gave you the best interview” and then he let loose his legendary laugh. As the late summer sun set in the distance, he patted me on my back, and we promised to get together for lunch later in the fall. It was the last time I saw him at our annual MFF summit where he was a regular.

The planned lunch never materialized.

Our dear friend Tom Huseby left for his humble abode last month after a tough fight with cancer.

Tom Huseby was a beloved figure in the Seattle tech and the global mobile community, known for his remarkable contributions to the telecom industry and his role as a startup investor and advisor. His passing leaves a void that will be deeply felt by many who had the privilege of knowing him.

Tom's journey in telecom began at its inception, and throughout his career, he remained a steadfast ally and innovator in the field. His expertise was matched only by his willingness to listen and engage with others, making him an invaluable mentor and friend to many in the industry.

Those who knew Tom often speak of his infectious energy and enthusiasm. He had an uncanny ability to inspire others with his passion for problem-solving and his vision for the future. His presence at events like the annual MFF gathering was always a highlight, bringing with it a burst of creativity and laughter. He was always willing to engage and call BS when he even had a whiff.

His integrity and loyalty were of the highest order.

Tom's intellect was described as both brilliant and disarming - a rare combination that made him not only respected but genuinely liked by all who met him. His quick wit and ridiculously funny nature made every interaction memorable, whether it was a casual lunch or a late-night conversation at an industry event.

Even in his later years, Tom's dedication to the tech community never wavered. His appearance at the MFF event on September 6th, 2023, where he engaged in conversation late into the evening, showcased his enduring passion and commitment. This interview might have been his last on-camera industry discussion (with my good friend Sandeep Chandel ), serves as a poignant reminder of the knowledge and inspiration he continued to share until the very end.

We will be forever left wondering what were those two ideas he was thinking about.

Tom Huseby's legacy extends far beyond his professional accomplishments. He was a friend, a mentor, and a source of joy to many in Seattle and beyond. His ability to make complex problems seem solvable, his readiness with a joke or a word of encouragement, and his genuine interest in others' ideas and experiences made him a truly special individual.

As we remember Tom, we celebrate not just his contributions to the telecom and startup world, but the warmth, humor, and wisdom he brought to every interaction. His loss will be felt deeply by the MFF community, the Seattle tech scene, the mobile ecosystem, and all those whose lives he touched.

Tom Huseby's memory will continue to inspire and guide those who knew him, reminding us of the power of enthusiasm, the importance of listening, and the impact one individual can have on an entire community. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy of innovation, mentorship, and friendship will undoubtedly live on.

(Below are the last video and the last picture I have of him, you can spot him in the picture with the other MFF diehards)