By Jim Olsen

Whenever Bob and I met, we would inevitably start giggling. Yes, giggling. Have you ever had a friend with whom you shared that joyful, spontaneous laughter at the very first greeting? If so, you know the blessing it is. I was fortunate to know Bob Lindgren, and anyone who crossed paths with him was equally blessed—especially if he giggled upon seeing you.

Bob was renowned for his memorable sayings, the most famous being, “Well, there you have it.” This phrase signaled that he had concluded his thoughts and felt confident that he had without question adequately addressed the topic at hand.

He featured his aphorisms as headlines in his newsletters, first as President of PIASC and later as part of “The Management Guys.” These insights offered valuable advice on successfully managing a printing company. Today, using his own aphorisms, let’s reflect on Bob’s wisdom as a testament to a life well lived.

BECOME A TRUSTED SOURCE

Bob was both wise and knowledgeable. He brought to our industry not only his formal education in accounting and finance but also invaluable practical experience. He was a printer. He became a trusted mentor to friends, association members, and fellow PIA affiliate managers.

ANY RIGHT-THINKING PERSON WOULD…

This phrase conveyed, “If you want to solve your problem, here’s what you need to do.” Bob’s delivery instilled confidence, making those who sought his advice feel empowered to act on his recommendations.

ARE THEY THE RIGHT CHOICE?

Bob was introspective. He didn’t rush to conclusions (even if it sometimes seemed that way). In both business and life, he carefully weighed the pros and cons before choosing the best course of action.

GET HELP

Seeking help doesn’t always mean relying on others; often, it involves research and reading—self-help, if you will. Bob’s value to friends and colleagues stemmed from his knowledge, which he kept fresh by constantly reading business and spiritual texts. The true magic was in his ability to distill that knowledge into insights we could grasp.

WHAT IF…? 

Bob was always looking to improve the old and innovate the new, often starting his thoughts with “What if…?” He had a practical mindset that helped us see new possibilities and paths forward.

JUST DO IT. TAKE THE FIRST STEP

Once Bob inspired us with his wisdom, he urged us to take confident, decisive action in our businesses and lives.

Bob not only helped us become better managers and individuals but also imparted a profound lesson on how to face death. Many struggle with this, but Bob embraced it.

 WHAT HAPPENS NEXT? A NEW BEGINNING…

Some of you may ponder the existence of God; that's perfectly fine. Others may not believe at all, and that’s okay too.

However, consider this: Bob had no doubt that there is a God. He believed there is a Heaven, and was certain he would go there. He faced death without fear and with excitement for what lay ahead. What a remarkable way to live—and to die.

THERE YOU HAVE IT—END OF STORY….