John Cokos (jcokos), Administrator: Jimworld.com

Cathy and Nick, Jim meant the world to me. I first met Jim in 1996, when I first got started on the Internet. I was working a 40 hour a week job at the time, and got an email from him, asking for a demo copy of our search engine program for review on VirtualPromote.com. I couldn't believe it, an internet icon like Jim Wilson not only emailed me personally, but actually had an interest in my junky little program.

Jim was very accommodating with me. We installed the program on his server, and over the course of a few months, Jim offered me literally hundreds of suggestions to improve it, mainly so that it worked better for his needs, but overall, the usability of "YooHoo" was increased immeasurably. He suggested a name change, and a price increase. With hesitation, I took Jim's advice. A month later (sometime in early 1997), we released "Hyperseek", along with a full review by Jim in "The Gazette" and the official launch of "helpwaresites.com".

3 Months later, I quit my job, and my late night hobby turned into a full time operation. Jim had such a vision, and such a way of describing things, and laying them out. Without his advice, tutelage and friendship, I'd still have that old job, and a 2-bit website on the side.

During the years that have passed since, Jim and I talked regularly, did a few conferences together, and in general became quite good friends. Best of friends. On a professional level, I owe my success to Jim. Aside from his one-on-one assistance with my company, he taught me things about marketing in general, and the internet specifically, that to this day still pass muster. His vision and passion were addicting, and mind blowing.

The internet is a better place today because of Jim Wilson, and I a better person for having known him. I consider myself lucky to have been able to share a bond of love and trust with Jim. I make it my goal to live up to his vision, and share his passion.