Edward Jason "Jay" Shonka

I apologize for this very late note, but I'm just seeing this note about Jay, my condolences to his family, he was an amazing person. Jay gave me my start in business, hiring me, right after I graduated from St. Thomas college in 1969. I didn't know a damn thing about Administration/Accounts Receivable, and yet he took a chance on me, and I'll never forget him for giving me my start in business. He would have loved to have known, that his hire went on to have a great career in Administration/Finance with IBM and lastly finishing my business career as the head of Apple's Credit and Collections operations, leading the cash team that helped save Apple in the mid-90's from financial bankruptcy. Ultimately, retiring as the Senior Site Director for Apple's Austin operations in 2010. Who says, one man can't make a difference. Thanks Jay and may God bless you for being there for me, when I needed someone to take a chance on a young kid, who didn't have a clue on what Accounts Receivable even meant.

Jay was Admin. Mgr. in St. Paul when I

arrived in Minneapolis to become Dist.

Admin. Mgr. He and Marge became great

friends over the next 10 years. We were

Vikings fans together and I remember

some very cold game mornings in the

parking lot. I also have fond memories of watching their wonderful

family grow up - even had one work

for me in the Regional Office.



Jay was an outstanding human being

whom I will remember with great

fondness.



My condolences go out to Marge and

her family.

EJ was my boss and friend back in the late 60s at IBM in St Paul. He had great empathy and concern for people. He had a short, hearty laugh and a way of twisting his expression so that it twinkled his pleasure at talking with you. Jay was special. Most special for him was his family. It is good to know he is at peace.

Jay was Administration Manager for me when I came to St. Paul as Branch Manager for IBM in about 1971. He was a good man and a pleasure to work with. Always very pleasant and very contentious. Our thoughts, prayers and condolences to the family.