On a sad note, on returning, I learned that someone I had known for nearly 40 years, Bud Lingelbach, had passed:

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Ode to Bud

 

Since I will not be able to attend the ceremony on 9/8/18 celebrating Bud's life, I am sharing some of my reflections.

 

I met Paula and Bud in 1979 when I started working for them.  Although more of my interactions were with Paula, these thoughts are focused on Bud.

 

Compared to how I was raised, working with the Lingelbachs was a new experience:  seeing what it is like to be up one rung on the socioeconomic ladder.  I started out working for the family, and after several years, eventually made the transition from the help to friend.  All along the way Bud and Paula were respectful, appreciative of my efforts, friendly, and most notably, generous.  My introduction to fine dining experiences was with them.

 

Bud, as a successful businessman, was also a great mentor.  Although I did not choose the path to enter the business world or manufacturing, through the years, he was always open to discuss business strategies, economic trends, or share tips on what made him a success.

 

Probably most importantly, he always had a friendly, warm demeanor.  Whenever I would see him, he'd have a big smile, firm handshake, and greet me with "Marky!! how ya' doin??"  When I talked with him, I had his attention, as opposed to some people who are always looking over your shoulder for someone more interesting to talk with.

 

Although our paths crossed infrequently, he was (and his family have been) significant player(s) in the movie that is my life, and it is with great sadness that I learned of his passing.  Although I also recognize that nobody gets out of this gig alive, I feel a loss now that he is physically gone.  However, his mentorship, his memory, and his spirit of generosity will live on.

 

Miss you, Bud.  Thank you for all you and your family have given me.

 

Mark Wolgin