33-1 Congratulating an Employee on Retirement - A Happy Occassion

Situation:

The financial Vice President of Waston-Ferguson Corporation, an employee for 45 years, retires. He is honored at a special retirement party. The president of the company wants to follow up with a personal letter to offer congratulations and express warm appreciation.

 

The Letter:

Dear Herb:

I was a mite surprised at the gift presented to you on the occasion of your retirement party -- a really beautiful set of golf clubs. I happen to know that you are not a golfer, and when I asked someone about the gift, the answer was : "That's what Sheila said Herb wanted most of all. He doesn't play now, but he's determined to learn."

Of course, I shouldn't be surprised. You've been constantly pursuing new challenges throughout your 45 years at Watson-Ferguson, and I can't think of one that you didn't master. It's that fierce determination -- tempered with a delightful Hoosier wit and practical-mindedness --  that has made you such an outstanding financial executive. Why not golf, indeed!

We will miss you, natually, but our gloom is brightened somewhat by our vision of your chasing the little white ball all over Hilton Head Island. That, by the way, sounds like a lot more fun than junggling debentures and arguing with security analysts.

Muriel joins me in wishing for you and Sheila many happy years in the Sun Belt. Be sure to drop in on the folks here at W-F when you get to Cleveland.

Best personal regards,