I write this with mixed emotions.  I am really happy that you have retired and now get to have some fun, travel, spend time with your grandchildren, golf, etc., yet I will miss calling you at the office and seeking your advice/wisdom.  While it sometimes seemed like you were quick to turn down my ideas, I know you were almost always right and I learned so much from you that one could never learn in a book.  One of my earliest memories of my childhood was a Saturday morning that I woke up early and went to work with Dad.  I remember going to the Brooklyn plant on Front Street, putting my bucket up in the mixer (my chair), you loading the truck and riding along while you delivered concrete at a farm south of Brooklyn.  I don’t know why that one time sticks in my head, but maybe it was because that day riding next to my Dad in the mixer (sitting on a bucket) that I realized that I wanted to be like Dad when I grew up.  I think I learned the difference between cement and concrete before I could read or write.  When I had the opportunity to come to Waterloo and work with Tim, I must say that one reason that caused me to hesitate was that I wouldn’t get to see you on a daily basis.  I enjoyed the fact that when in Brooklyn and something was bothering me, I could just walk across the hall versus picking up the phone.  As you can see you passed the concrete business on to me at an early age and have continued to do so my whole life.  I realize that I can still call if ever I have a question and you will help (if you aren’t golfing), but I do miss having you at work.  Thanks for everything you have taught me.  Enjoy your retirement, I am sure Holly and I will be seeing you more (visiting your granddaughter).  Have fun.

Love,   Chris