(1935-2025)
Richard “Dick” Kramlich passed away at his Napa Valley home on February 1. A groundbreaking leader in international venture capital and contemporary art collecting, Kramlich was also a dedicated member of the Festival Napa Valley board of directors. His warmth and passion for the arts left an indelible mark on countless individuals and institutions.
Kramlich co-founded the venture capital firm New Enterprise Associates and was among the earliest backers of Apple Computer. His keen sense of people and visionary understanding of new ideas and ways of working helped shape the tech industry, guiding numerous Silicon Valley start-ups to become billion-dollar valuations and household names.
Photo Credit: Drew Altizer
Photo Credit: Drew Altizer
He received many honors, including lifetime achievement awards from the National Venture Capital Association and UC Berkeley’s Haas School of Business. He is remembered for his business savvy, kindness, patience, generosity, and unwavering devotion to his family.
Kramlich and his wife Pam were introduced to Festival Napa Valley soon after its founding in 2006 and became ardent supporters, playing a vital role in the organization’s growth and success. He joined the Festival board in 2020. At every festival event he attended, his broad smile welcomed new and returning guests, his positive and inquisitive nature shining through every conversation.
“They broke the mold with Dick Kramlich,” said longtime friend and fellow FNV board member Roger Walther. “He was invested in the success of every endeavor, business or nonprofit. He was generous in every way, sharing his insights and wisdom and bringing out the best in everyone and everything. I’m going to miss him.”
Dick and Pam’s passion for the arts culminated in the creation of the groundbreaking Kramlich Collection, one of the world’s most significant collections of time-based media art. Their love for art, innovation, and community converged in Napa Valley’s Oakville, where the Kramlich Collection is now housed in private, state-of-the-art galleries designed by the acclaimed architectural firm Herzog & de Meuron.
Photo Credit: Drew Altizer
Photo Credit: Drew Altizer
Festival Napa Valley will honor Dick Kramlich’s legacy on opening night of the 2025 summer season at Charles Krug, highlighting his love for music and art with a presentation of Wildfire (meditation on fire) by David Claerbout, a digital artwork that the Kramlichs both deeply admired.
The mesmerizing piece, exploring both destruction and renewal, will be showcased during a live performance of Stravinsky’s Firebird Suite—a poignant nod to Dick Kramlich’s enduring impact. His memory will burn bright as music fills the air and Wildfire flickers onstage.