Miron Sher

In the touching words of one of Miron's most successful students, Robert Hess: It pains me beyond imagination to write these words. Rest In Peace, Miron. My one and only chess coach, Grandmaster Miron Sher, has passed away. People joke that you can't spell chess without Hess. The truth is you can't spell Robert Hess without Miron Sher. Miron taught me so much more than how to become a strong chess player. Throughout our journeys - from Argentina, to Greece, to France and to wherever else we traveled - he helped me become a much better person. He stressed the value of being well-rounded, as a chess player and more importantly as a person. He encouraged and challenged me to step outside my comfort zones, whether it was with a new opening, a new food, or a new outlook. Our bond, since my childhood and until forever, is indestructible. I reflect upon our times together with nothing but love. Because that's what it was. A shared love of chess that brought us both immense joy. Shared laughs and deep reflections during our many walks down many city streets, as he helped navigate me through not just the winding variations the world of chess has to offer but the countless lessons life has to as well. I have never and will never mention my chess successes without acknowledging Miron's name and presence in my life. But his impact is not confined to a board with 64 squares. He was an incredibly kind man. He knew what to say, and how to say it. He was unbelievably patient. He knew when to be firm, but also let me take my own path to understanding. He was a world-class educator, as many of his students and colleagues can attest to. He knew how to influence and inspire with an approach that allowed your strengths to shine while he worked tirelessly on improving the areas you struggled with. And he was so, so, so humble and selfless. He was immeasurably proud of all of his students' accomplishments. My condolences to his beloved wife Alla and son Mikhail. He treasured his family. Miron, I love you, I miss you, and I'm so grateful that 7-year-old me told my parents that I wanted you to be my coach. You've made the world a significantly better place.