It’s with regret I’m announcing that long-time writer, developer, and friend of Onyx Path, Leath Sheales, has passed away.
Leath collaborated with a huge number of writers and developers at Onyx Path. One of my colleagues explained this morning that Leath’s contributions heavily shaped the Trinity Continuum game line into what it is today. I can attest that his amazing work on both Werewolf games, the upcoming World Below, and more besides, made so many of us respect his creative skill.
But more than a creative, he was a friend to so many of us, and beyond that, a husband and father. Always generous with his humour and affection, Leath was a mainstay on our teams not just for coming up with interesting rules or setting elements, but for his laughter, his (often irreverent, very Australian) wit, and the great deal of support he provided his colleagues every step of the way. He championed his games, but he also championed his colleagues. More than one author overcame difficulties in their writing because Leath was there helping them.
I’ve been in a lot of chats today with people who worked with Leath, and unanimously, his co-developers and writers have commented on how highly they thought of him, how easily he made them laugh, and their respect for his style when it came to handling fans, readers, and customers.
I enjoyed working with Leath tremendously. I enjoyed just chatting and joking with him too. I enjoyed hearing about his family and his life outside the RPG industry. And I’m certainly not alone when I say I’m going to miss all those things, but especially his presence in the world.
Thank you Leath, from all of us at Onyx Path.
Comments
16 responses to “Leath Sheales Has Passed Away”
This is terrible news. Leath was an author on so many wonderful books and his talent was obvious. I’ve heard him on the Pathcast several times and he seemed to be a lovely man with real wit and warmth. My sincerest condolences to everyone at Onyx Path who knew him, but especially to his family, friends, and anyone who loved him.
My condolences to Leath’s family and friends. This is sad to hear. 🙁
My condolences.
What a tragedy.
My condolences to his family and friends, and to those who knew him through his work.
Oh, that’s terrible to hear. I’m sorry to his family and friends for their loss.
I only knew him through his work and presence on discord, but all who actually knew him have my condolences. He seemed pretty awesome.
Deaths often are, but it’s shocking to hear. Condolences to his family, friends and all his colleagues.
My condolences. Taken far too soon.
A shame such a great guy was taken so soon. I hope his family can make it through.
May his words emblazoned in the print forever as a reminder of his greatness while inspiring future generations of gamers and writers.
Here here!
Very sad. Prayers for his family for comfort.
Leath’s funeral will be on Friday 12pm at Norwood Park Chapel in Mitchell, Canberra.
Funeral arrangers are Grantley Perry & Sons.
I’ll pass condolences to his family – they’ll be touched.
[…] Last Friday we received the sad and tragic news that one of our most well-regarded freelance creators, Leath Sheales, passed away suddenly. Matthew wrote a beautiful memorial post here: https://theonyxpath.com/leath-sheales-has-passed-away/ […]
I have the utmost respect for his works and all the memories he helped create. Respect and comfort to everyone he leaves behind. I’ll have thought for the onyx path team too.