I am still trying to wrap my arms around it. My boss, my mentor, my hero in so many ways is retiring from the airport. I know stuff like this happens all the time but I guess that doesn’t make this much easier.

I sent Fred a note today thanking him for believing in me. For believing in the potential of this place and its people. For standing tall when most would bow down. Fred Krum is an amazing leader and his physical presence will be missed though his spirit will roam these concourses and this tower forever.

I warmly remember the many conversations we had in his office as the sun was going down over the horizon. It seemed like 5:00 was his idea time. His contemplation time. He would pull out a letter signed by Herb Kelleher or tell a story about Jack Doyle, the guy who gave him the job when Fred was only 28 years old. Sometimes he’d spin some tunes, pull out a napkin and think about new cities we could get to- LA, Phoenix, DC- to name a few. Then he’d think about what it would take to get there. I learned a lot during these impromptu meetings. These were the special opportunities for me to listen, learn and get ready for my new job at CAK.

I will cherish Fred’s leadership and what I learned from him for the rest of my life. Thanks Fred, for everything.