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| Webster, David, and Alan |
I've written about my Father on multiple past occasions. He'd have been 81 today if he'd made it past 54. And so my thoughts are on him today.
Instead of writing my own reflections, I'll just post a small set of comments I gathered some years back from his colleagues at Tandem:
Alan was one of the few people at Tandem that left a lasting impression on me. Alan was brilliant, and had a terrific sense of humor.
What a grand man...he is actually the person who brought me into Tandem. If I thought I could tackle some project, he was the one who said 'go for it'. Alan was a true inspiration to me. He was the kind of boss that would really let you spread your wings and try to do what you could. It is very much because of him that I have my personal slogan: "I will not know what I can do until I do what I can". This is the byline I live by to this day. I thank Alan for that.
I worked with your father at HP, prior to Tandem, for several years. He was not only very intelligent, but a warm and friendly sort of guy.
I knew your dad very well. He spoke from the heart and knew when people were lying to him. He appreciated tallented people and loved to be around anyone with lots of talent. Didn't matter how old or young you were. He always treated you fairly and with respect. I loved the man and loved working with him.
I met and worked with you father a couple of times. Being a new programmer he some times went over my head, but he was patient with me. I'll never forget his energy, kindness and willingness to teach.
The way I see it, your dad was a human being you can be proud of, he is one of the suns that are shining on my life even after the trip I took to Frankfurt for his funeral.
I knew your father well. Your Dad was brilliant. He hid that well. One would have to really work with him to know. It was a joy to work with him. He was also funny and a great person to be around. Your Dad was a great friend and when I remember him, I smile. I'm smiling now. I don't think it gets any better than that. How nice to be remembered so fondly. A smile….that's Alan.
"I wasn't there that morning when my Father passed away
I didn't get to tell him all the things I had to say.
I think I caught his spirit later that same year
I'm sure I heard his echo In my baby's new born tears
I just wish I could have told him in the living years."
- Mike & The Mechanics