It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we write this letter to pay tribute and express our eternal gratitude to Philipp Gosch, our vice president and founding member of the association Game Development Graz and an integral part of the Austrian and international game development scene. But most importantly, to our dear friend, who was suddenly taken from our midst.
Phil was known for his contagious enthusiasm, multifaceted talents, extraordinarily kind heart, and his always fun attitude. Not only was he a foundational pillar of Game Dev Graz, but also a driving force behind bringing the community together, spreading knowledge, and organizing events like our local game jams and the Game Dev Days.
Phil was a skilled and experienced technical artist as well as a seasoned software developer. He was constantly striving for innovation, and his expertise seemingly had no boundaries, while also being eager and willing to share his knowledge with others.
Even more importantly however, beyond his professional achievements, he was an exceptional individual who enriched the lives of everyone who met him, from all around the world.
Phil’s departure leaves a deep void, and we are still in shock and mourning at this surreal loss. He was a core part of our community; ever helpful, diligent, and kind. Always ready to work hard and get things done for our shared vision, while always enjoying the little things along the way.
Much laughter, many long project hours and drinks were shared with him over the years, fond memories that we’ll forever hold close to our hearts.
We will always remember his legacy, not only through the games and projects he shared with us, but first and foremost by how much he inspired all of us as a person and just being our friend. He touched the lives of so many, and his memory will be a source of inspiration to all of us.
In the end, there is so much more left to say as we are still lost for words.
You were one of us, Phil, and will forever be missed. We are grateful that we could spend time with you, get to know you, and see you accomplish great things. You left us too early, yet you also left us with so much.
We want to express our deepest condolences to the families and all those who have been touched by this loss. We console ourselves with the thought that Phil and Michi have shared the most beautiful time together in their last days as newlyweds, and we know that they will be remembered forever.
In liebender Erinnerung, Game Dev Graz.
Phil and Michaela were also an integral part of the skating community, who share their memories of them with us: https://xn--grb-rla.at/2023/09/wir-trauern-um-phil-und-michaela/