Portrait of Kyril Faenov set against a blue-hued background incorporating a childhood portrait of him in a field of flowers, with the following quote by William Shakespeare: Alas, poor world, what treasure hast though lost

 

Side-by-side photos of Kyril Faenov – one of him as a baby in a onesie and cap being held up against a blue sky by two adult arms, the other a photo of him in a jumpsuit and helmet in mid-air while skydiving

38 years of soaring and striving for the stars

 

Tributes

On May 25th 2012, the world lost a wonderful human being. His brilliant mind and big heart are legacies he left behind. They will live forever in the hearts and minds of everyone who knew him.

On Wednesday, I did something that only a few days prior would have seemed unimaginable: I attended the funeral of my dear friend, colleague, mentor and manager, Kyril Faenov. At only 38, he was six years my junior. As anyone who knew Kyril can attest, he was extraordinary in so many ways: his brilliant and curious mind; his boundless and infectious energy; his childlike enthusiasm; his disarming charm, charisma and good looks; his relentless drive to do great things in order to change the world for the better; and, most striking to me, his infinite capacity to care for, protect, honor and appreciate those around him. My deep sorry in losing Kyril is rivaled only by my deep gratitude for having had the opportunity to know him and to work closely with him. I cannot thank you enough, Kyril, for your kindness toward me for the example y ou set and for the legacy you defined. I miss you, and I honor your memory. – Jonathan Smith

Kyril has been hands down the best human being I have had the honor of knowing. I was luck to have shared so many philosophical discussions with him and followed him on some of the experiences he went through on his metaphysical journey. My heart broke at the news! Such a bright light is a beacon for others and is such a huge loss. I will certainly never forget him and will forever miss his gentle and loving spirit. I pray for him to find peace wherever he is and for God to bless his family and the little ones. – Sheena Chandra

Kyril, thanks for being a great friend and mentor. You were an inspiration to all whose lives you touched. Your smile, your kindness, your optimism, your positive energy, your leadership are truly irreplaceable and will be greatly missed. Rest in peace. – Salim Alam

I am deeply shaken and saddened to have read of his passing. I will miss him dearly. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. The message so deeply disturbed me that I needed two days to formulate some word. Can words ever describe the kindness, inspiration, leadership, human warmness Kyril gave all of us? He was a leader from the heart. I never have meet a more gentle person than Kyril in my whole live! My live long I will remember you smile and always happy face. My life got richer in having known you. I hope you find the peace. – Wolfgang Dryer

Read additional tributes here (PDF)

Extended tribute from Audrey Sniezek, with additional comments from friends

A moving eulogy by Bill Bain