Retirement Celebrations!

Tom's Retirement.
On May 10th, Butler Community College held a retirement celebration for Tom. What a touching time it was. He has worked at Butler for 32 years in several positions but for the last many years as Vice President of Information Technologies/CIO. Tom's Secretary for 23 years came to his Retirement too! She retired several years ago. Such kind glowing words were spoken about Tom. The word that kept coming up was "integrity". People described him as hard working, dedicated to moving the college forward and a person who deserved some relaxation! Several people wrote that he he took a chance in hiring them, that he believed in them, that he didn't mico-manage them and allowed them to grow in their jobs. Thirty two years ago, Butler had 22 computers and now Butler has over 2,800 computers. They have come a long way. They credited Tom with bringing technology to the college and keeping the college current, secure and thriving with technologies. Others described him as caring, kind and able to build relationships to get things accomplished. All this, while a slide show ran through photos of Tom over the years. Photos of him huddled with staff, working a projects and enjoying family time. Tom on vacation in Ireland, Scotland and Ukraine. And the vast spread of food was incredible! Tom was truly touched and moved by this outpouring of respect and well wishes.

Small group: Family and Friends Gathering
Then, a few days later our daughters threw a small intimate gathering of friends and family. The event took place at Bite Me BBQ in Wichita, one of our favorite BBQ eateries. We love and treasure these people and are so thankful they are in our lives. Stacy Cofer, VP at Butler was there too but left before photos were taken!!

Kathie's super supervisor and husband!

Larry and Donna; long time friends!

Joe and Bobbi; friends and Tom's biking buddy.

Joe and Sheryle; friends, next door neighbors, traveling buddies, Tom's biking buddy etc.

Dany and Luci; Kathie's work friends since the 1980's.

Danny and Liz; Tom's friend since grade school.

Bob and Karen; Tom's brother and sister in-law.

Our wonderful family!! (Minus Haley and Drew!

After Bite Me BBQ, some of us walked down Douglas to Third Place Brewery for a beer. Well, that's when our 21 month old granddaughter was kicked out of her first bar! Apparently everyone has to be over the age of 21 YEARS not 21 MONTHS!

Kathie's Retirement Celebration:
A Retirement celebration was planned for Kathie by her foster care team but had to be cancelled. The next blog, "Life Takes A Turn" will explain what happened.