Rest in Peace Danya
My favorite chess commentator. You were born the year before I left the Bay Area and you made quite a splash in the chess scene. Proud of all of your accomplishments over the years. Sorry you had to struggle through the latest storm. You will be missed, Danya. Rest in Peace. Comfort for your family and friends you left behind.
Danya was one of my favorite people in chess. He was kind, honest and humble. He always acted with integrity. He stood up for others and for what was right, even when it went against the popular opinion. He was immensely talented. A consistent top 10 player in speed chess who could battle with anyone, yet he dedicated himself to being an educator and communicator, sharing his deep insight and understanding with the fans. He was a good person to his core. He will be missed dearly, and there will be a lasting hole on the chess.com blitz and bullet leaderboards.
Thank you for teaching me the Kings Indian. Thank you for entertaining my silly comments in twitch chat. Thank you for standing up for Hans. Rest in Peace.