Celebrating My Dad’s Leadership on His 100th Birthday

October 10th marked my dad’s 100th birthday. You might wonder why I’m sharing this milestone on LinkedIn, but as I reflect on his life, I’m struck by the leadership lessons he’s embodied for a century.

Of all the leaders I’ve worked with over my career, few could match my dad’s quiet, steadfast approach.  He listened more than he spoke.  He asked thought-provoking questions to better understand a problem and to create a sense of ownership for the person with the problem.  As a business owner, he understood what it took to lead, but more importantly, he lived by the principles he believed in. The core values that have shaped his life are simple but powerful: faith, family, country, and a relentless work ethic.  He’s held true to these values every day.

His partnership with my mom (who is now 98) is another testament to his leadership. Married for 74 years, they have built a life together defined by balance, compromise, and shared purpose. In their relationship, it has never been about who is right or wrong. It has always been about finding the best solution.

These lessons—quiet leadership, staying true to your values, and finding solutions together—are ones I wish more leaders today could learn from my dad.  He is still my greatest “go to” when I need business advice or any kind of advice for that matter.

He has always practiced what he believed, and in doing so, created a legacy of integrity and partnership that continues to inspire me to be the best I can be every day.