Letter from the President

This week began with the sad news of the death of Ron Garikes, after his long struggle with ALS. But his memorial service on Tuesday captured his essence with endless stories about countless good times.  It was a truly moving celebration of his life by family and friends, many smiles, and much love and laughter. 

With a twinkle in his mischevious eyes and his quick wit, Ron had a way of bringing fun into any situation, loving life and people.  He engaged his favorite pasttimes in his work as was made evident by his very last professional speaking engagement, when he spoke to our Alabama Chapter members in a workshop at the Robert Trent Jones Oxmoor Valley golf course in Birmingham on 'Doing Business on the Golf Course.' 

Ron's role in establishing the SMPS Alabama Chapter and the role he played in the national organization enhanced our growth and many of us can say, our own careers.  Ron always credited SMPS with his success and the lifetime business friendships our organization allowed him to make.  For those contributions and acknowledgments, we will be forever grateful. 

While a terrible disease took Ron's body, it could not take his spirit. For the courage in his physical battle and the optimism he showed, we will be forever in awe. 

Our hearts and prayers go out to his family now and in the coming months and years without him.  Thank you and farewell, cherished friend and esteemed colleague, Ronald W. Garikes, FSMPS! 

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