Dale is the reason I became an RVP, and beyond. He was the President when I got my feet wet in the Board room.
I'll never forget his patience with me. He called one day, out of the blue, asking if I would consider running for RVP. I asked him if I could think about it. He said of course, and for 6 weeks I tossed that idea around. I finally had to make a decision (he wanted to know one way or the other). I finally said yes, I will put my name in nomination. I believe he contacted a few people in the SE Region asking them to endorse me, because the feeling I got at that Convention's Regional caucus was I WAS going to be elected to be RVP. That didn't sit well with me because Clarence Zeches (previous RVP) is a dear friend and I had no intention of upsetting him. Clarence was fine, and now I am a fish out of water having never aspired to be anything but a piano technician.
I will always remember Dale's patience and support with me. We didn't talk 'shop'. Our shop talk was based on the PTG, its well-being, and always a bit of history since he was a walking encyclopedia of PTG knowledge. All of us were his extended family, and those that have written so far know this. Those that have not now know they have lost a brother from this organization.
I would be remiss if I did not mention Liz. She kept him with us as long as she could. She knew how important PTG was to Dale, and how being a part and participating in anything PTG gave him a spark. Thank you Liz. Thank you for your support for our benefit.
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-Phil Bondi
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Original Message:
Sent: 01-27-2017 19:04
From: Kathy Smith
Subject: Dale Probst
Thank you Norman, for bearing the burden of passing along this sad news. Dale was one of the bravest men I know. He was funny and smart, and dedicated to quality, whether in his work, his teaching, or his ethics. He was and will continue to be a role model. I'm so pleased that he got awards, heartfelt love, and acclamation in his last couple of years. Each time I saw him, even when he seemed to be doing relatively well, I wondered if it would be the last time.
Our hearts go out to Liz and to Dale's family. Let us know if there's anything we can do.
Kathy