Manfred came to the United States from Germany after World War II as a teenager and appreciated everything that makes our country so great: the freedom, the opportunity, the rule of law in a democracy based upon a free market. And great fishing. He was successful in the food and beverage industry, an expert in wines and in the importance of excellent service to others being a key part of any endeavor. He was not fond of government or paying taxes, something that my father actually believed was an integral and necessary part our country's greatness. As a result, we had many great conversations on a wide range of issues while fishing in the High Sierra. In "God's Country." My choosing to live here was in large part because of these great trips. No matter how we viewed any issue, we always kept the discussion friendly and engaging.
Manfred's favorite phrase was "teach me." This phrase always moved the conversation forward and afforded everyone with an opportunity to fully explain the basis for the point they were trying to make. Each conversation became a learning experience. I think of this each time I am in a discussion when I am not certain that I fully understand someone's perspective or the basis for their opinion. It never fails to help me understand an argument or point of view, and always helps move the discussion forward.
Uncle George, actually my Mom's uncle, moved from Massachusetts to the Bay Area following a labor dispute that he was active in. In California he worked as a printer for the Oakland Tribune for many years. Our favorite vacations were staying with Uncle George and Aunt Maybelle over the Christmas or Thanksgiving holidays. Uncle George taught me that each person deserves to be treated with respect, no matter who they are or where they started in life. He taught me that we choose our lives and that it is OK to take risks, to make moves to new areas, and to try new things. That we are the "Captain of our ship." The course we set, the way we navigate dangerous waters, and who we have on our journey is largely up to us. Our family experienced great tragedy when his youngest son, Billy, passed away when only a boy. This made him appreciate life all the more and he never lost his faith.
I was very fortunate to have these good men as guides and navigators. Their love and wisdom will always be with me on my journey.
