Retiring? Yes. Shy? No!

Last evening, Ken and I attended the Retirement Party for Bob Cremin.  Bob is retiring from Esterline Technologies Corporation after 33 years and the last 12 as the CEO.  He will remain affiliated with Esterline as the Chairman of the Board. 

The invitation to the event invited us to join Bob for the party at the Bellevue Arts Museum but exclaimed that it was the only time we would see the word “retiring” in the same sentence with his name, whether we call him “Bob”, “Dr. Death” or “Crems”.  You would definitely not call Bob Cremin shy and retiring!  We are so pleased that we have become such good friends with Bob and his wife, Joan, over the past few years.  They both are an important part of our life.  You can see from the photo above that he is just the slightest bit unusual, which is what we appreciate!

It was a lovely party with accolades from many who have worked with Bob along with a delicious dinner of rack of lamb and lentil ragout catered by Kaspar’s.  Dancing followed the program, but by then Ken was ready to go home so we did not stay to trip the light fantastic.  There was a wonderful slide show that was running during the cocktail hour that included many great photos of Bob and Joan over the years (lots of different styles of glasses and hair) with business associates, family and friends.  Several of the photos were from past cruises that we have taken together.  Some of the other “fellow cruisers” in attendance at the party last evening included Michele & Dan Heidt, Arlene Wright & Beni Turan, Carol & Spike Anderson, Diane & Gordon Kuenster, Jan Rogers, Kathie Price, and Susan & Chuck Andonian.

Following the roast and accolades, Bob spoke briefly.  There were two important take-aways for me.  First, Bob is known for his accessibility and availability to talk with people on the shop floor as well as his managers.  He said that he believes and trusts in people’s ability to make good decisions if you listen to them and then get out of the way and let them do their jobs.  I think this is a philosophy that is well worth emulating and cultivating.  Second, he also spoke about how important his family is to him and how much he appreciates the sacrifices they made while he was away from home and travelling all over the world turning Esterline into a $1.5 billion company.

Congratulations, Bob!  We look forward to seeing what your next adventure will be.