Gene was a great mentor during my early days at EECo in the 70's. Many of us "youngsters" at that time benefited from his wealth of knowledge. Iris, my thoughts are with you and Debbie during these days.

Iris and Debbie: I was shocked to hear about Gene when Sandra called to tell me about this week. Just know that we are thinking of you all this week. Our thoughts and prayers are will all of you -

Yes, there are still several people left at Electrical Equipment Company who treasure their memories of Gene and I am certainly one of them. As warehouse manager, Gene was responsible for working with the auditor each year who did an inventory check. As long as Gene was here there was never a single error reported. How? Clearly a combination of Gene's skill as a manager AND his gift of gab. In fact, there's an industry joke I've heard from many around the country and I know for a fact that it originated with Gene. A customer came into the Counter and ordered 1/2 a stick of conduit (a very odd order). As Gene walked into the warehouse he said, "Can you believe that some idiot has ordered half a stick of conduit??" Upon seeing the horror on a warehouseman's face, he realized that the customer had followed him into the warehouse. Without missing a beat, Gene said, "Fortunately, this gentleman wants the other half." Thousands of people in our industry who didn't know Gene, will hear this story and chuckle over his quick thinking for years to come. I like to think that Gene will be laughing right along with them forever.

Gene Armstrong will always hold a special place in my heart. He hired me to work in the Electrical Equipment Co warehouse in August of 1987. A couple of years later, Gene tutored me into a sales position at the counter. I enjoyed working with Gene and always enjoyed his ability to say what was on his mind with his own style of good nature and humor. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.

May your memories of the wonderful times you shared with your loved one comfort you and your family, today and always.

Dear Aunt I and Debbie,

My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. I wish I could be there.

Your loving niece,

Linda

Iris, Debbie and family, my thoughts and prayers are with you all. In the coming days, celebrate with wonderful memories of joyful times together.

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.