Apr 7, 2007

Grandpa teaches one last lesson about coming together

I want to start my column by thanking all of the readers and industry members who have been so supportive over the past few weeks since the death of my grandfather, Keith Warren. The outpouring of support and concern – not to mention kindness – from all of you has made this experience a little easier. And seeing how loved Grandpa was has certainly helped my family celebrate his life rather than simply mourning his death.

I’ve always known my grandfather was a special man. In his life, he taught many people many things about what it takes to be a good, hard-working and honest person. And in his recent death, he taught an even more important lesson about the importance of coming together.

As a fruit grower, Grandpa grew some of the most beautiful – and tasty – fruit I’ve ever seen. And he helped to teach three generations of my family the honor that hard work brings. He worked alongside my father on many cherry and apple harvests, and I’m sure his presence will be greatly missed as my dad takes over the reins and continues the tradition carried on by generations of Warrens before him.

In his 30 years as a chemical representative, Grandpa showed his clients that he truly cared about them and took time to get to know each of them individually. From this, he showed all of us that it’s always important to do a good job. And it’s always important to like what you do and show it through your actions.

His work aside, my grandpa lived his life with a pride and honor that I am glad I got to experience. And from him – and, of course, my parents – I’ve learned what it takes to make it in the real world.

And it seems almost all growers – of every kind – live their lives this way. They instill something in their families that cannot be matched by school teachings alone. It cannot be matched by simple real-world experience after graduating from high school or college. And it certainly can’t be found in a book. It can only come by watching someone who has honor and a respect for what he or she does.

In his death, Grandpa Warren left behind many people who cared greatly for him. People came from all over the state of Michigan to celebrate his life. When people say farmers should get together and cooperate on things, I know this is one part of that. I was amazed – and honored – to see so many industry members come to say farewell to one man. By being the man he was, my grandfather managed to get all the important people from our state’s fruit industry in one room – something that is difficult to do during a normal year. I think he’d probably appreciate that – and probably even find some humor in it.

I’ve seen that what starts with one man and his love for his industry can spread and touch hundreds of people. Now, the only thing to do is find a way to make it work while the person – and the industry – is still alive.