Dear Brad and all the family of Bill Tate,

I attended your father's funeral yesterday to pay my respects to a wonderful man and I have to say it was one of the most special funerals I have ever been to. I worked at GML from 1979-1988, and would likely still be a part of Allied Signal / Honeywell had I not chosen to stay at home to raise my children. It was a fabulous place to work and it really was like one big happy family. I met so many wonderful people and had so many great experiences in my time there. Your father was a very well respected and gentle man. I knew him enough to say hello and have a few words, and he knew my name and would always acknowledge me. After hearing the family who spoke so lovingly about him yesterday, you gave us all a very personal glimpse into the life of a truly remarkable man. It's wonderful that you've had such an amazing man in your lives.

I want to apologize for not approaching the family yesterday. I got a little caught up in the "Garrett Reunion", seeing some people I hadn't seen for twenty years.

What I would like to say to your family is this. Your love for your father, poppa, Bill is the greatest gift you gave him and I just know he was so proud of all of you yesterday, and every day.

I felt fortunate to be a part of Bill's Celebration of Life. Thank you.