To the shock of many in Second Life, Linden Lab announced on its official blog the departure of Senior VP Eric Nix –better known in-world as Patch Linden–as it reorganizes its Product Operations and Customer Success divisions.

LL credited the 20 year veteran of Linden Lab and member since 2004 for “playing an important role in the ongoing evolution and growth of Second Life.” 

Blogger Inara Pey detailed his extensive resume on her blog–Living in a Modem World. She further speculated that Patch Linden may have already left the company. Several commenters on social media and in the SL Forums expressed disappointment over the decision. LL CEO and Executive Chairman Brad Oberwager said in the announcement:   

“Eric has made meaningful contributions to Second Life over the course of his tenure. We thank him for his dedication, leadership, and the impact he’s had on both our product and our community, and we wish him the very best in his next chapter.”

Capping off its post, LL offered the following: 
“The departure comes as Linden Lab remains focused on delivering new and innovative experiences in partnership with the Second Life community while advancing its long-term product vision. The company continues to invest in new growth initiatives and product innovations across its platform.”