We lost a great man a few days ago. His name was not well known outside of San Francisco or retail circles, but his life benefited millions of people around the world. Those who knew him well considered him a great man and visionary legend. I did, too.

Don Fisher, the co-founder of Gap, died in his home on Sunday surrounded by his family. He was 81.

Days later, I feel a dull, lingering ache of sadness. I didn’t have the pleasure of knowing Mr. Fisher personally although I spoke with him on several occasions during elevator rides at 2 Folsom (Gap Inc.’s headquarters). He didn’t know my name or remember which brand I worked for, but he  always acknowledged me and engaged in business small talk during our 60 seconds together. After a particularly grueling day at work, I would marvel silently at his longstanding commitment to work. It wasn't work to him, I later realized. “Do what you love,” he said. And he did.

There is much to admire about Mr. Fisher. He was an activist in all facets of his life as an entrepreneur, husband, father, community leader and philanthropist.  His life mattered and had meaning because he made it so. In addition to being a visionary for a global company, he also seemed to have a vision for the kind of man he wanted to be. He believed in commitment, integrity, loyalty, quality and giving back. He also subscribed to doing the right thing, working hard and taking big risks. More than just believing in these values, however, he embodied them and that is what I admire most about him. He could talk the talk and walk the walk, my criterion for being a great man.

Shine on, Mr. Fisher. There will be a true gap without you.