Five years ago I met Yan, a vibrant, feisty computer programmer whom everyone called “Master Wu.” Over the years we spent a great deal of time working together. We collaborated on great projects and almost never agreed on anything. It was awesome.

We did have moments of civility. And when we did, we talked about our lives outside of work. Traveling, the housing market, programming, idioms, and our kids. I met her son when he was a wee fella, and welcomed in her second child around the same time she welcomed in mine.

Then the unthinkable happened.

On Monday, Yan was murdered by her husband.

Since learning of her death I have been holding back the tears. Yan was an awesome person. She was a great colleague. She was a great mother. She was a great friend. And she will be missed.

Rest in peace Master Wu