I can remember the day like it was yesterday. He pulled up to Capital University to interview me for my first job in a beautiful maroon Lexus. Frankly, I was 22 years old and not really into cars, so I didn’t even know what it was. He stepped out of it though in a neatly pressed suit with amazing cufflinks and a watch that caught my eye. It was the beginning of a long and wonderful relationship together.
He was my first boss and, unless I decide to move back into corporate America, my last boss. I learned more from him than I ever realized and still heed much of his advice and wisdom today. He scolded me when I was faxing a proposal to someone because he said you should always sit face to face when you are talking money. He stood up for me when a customer was screaming at me over something just ridiculous. He encouraged me to look at sales differently when the phone just wasn’t getting results; it led to a series of 3-dimensional promotions that were hugely successful. We went on sales calls together, grew the business in new directions, and ate at some wonderful restaurants (he really knew how to order food!).
Like all great relationships in our lives, I learned so much more than just about success in the workplace. He treated everyone with respect, kindness, and this fatherly love. I can recall when I told him I was getting married, and he knew I didn’t have a lot of money. He actually offered to pay for part of my wedding – and he meant it! It wasn’t just me that he treated like family; it was all of us who cared that same way about him. It was really him and my husband who encouraged me into this life of self employment. I can hear him saying so strongly, “Michelle, you can do anything. Just look at what you’ve accomplished in such a short period of time. I believe you can do it.” He also forced his daughter (though I know she didn’t mind doing it) to be my friend and introduce me around town. It was through a party she had one Friday night (a loser’s party for those of us single with no real prospects) that I met my husband Scott.
Really, isn’t that all we need sometimes? Someone who we love and respect so much that puts their neck on the line and believes in us without a doubt?
I learned a few days ago that he went to heaven. I know he’s there, as we also used to go to Mass on holy days together. I loved his faith, and he wore it on his sleeve. He gave so much to me that I’m only hoping that the life I’m leading would make him smile. I know I’ll never meet someone like that again who had such a positive and pivotal influence on my life. We often don’t realize how unique and wonderful experiences are until they have passed us by. Thank you for an amazing ride Mr. Fovel – I will never forget you.
