Tell HN: John Friel my father, internet pioneer and creator of QModem, has died

Article summary

John Friel, the creator of QModem, a pioneering internet software, has passed away. His son shared the news on Hacker News, inviting people to share their stories and memories of his father's contribution to the world. QModem was a popular terminal emulator and file transfer protocol that enabled users to connect to bulletin board systems (BBSes) and access online content. Many people credit QModem with introducing them to the world of online communities and networking.

Main themes

• QModem and its impact
• BBSes and online communities
• Internet pioneers and history
• Personal stories and memories
• Technology and innovation

What commenters say

• QModem played a significant role in introducing many people to the world of online communities and networking, and its impact is still felt today.
• The software was instrumental in enabling users to access and share information, and its legacy can be seen in the modern internet.
• John Friel's contribution to the development of the internet and online communities is immeasurable, and his software paved the way for future innovations.
• QModem was a crucial tool for people living in rural or isolated areas, providing them with access to information and connections that would have been otherwise unavailable.
• The community that formed around QModem and BBSes was a key part of the software's success, and many people still cherish the memories and connections they made during that time.
• The development and popularity of QModem were influenced by the business decisions and acquisitions that occurred during its history, including its purchase by Mustang Software.