From Amy Larson

Happy 40th Fred! This really is the gift that will keep on giving because you can always read it when you’re having a rough day, or you just need validation of how awesome you are.    

My earliest memories of you were around when you first got hired at Confie. I thought you were kind of a straightedge with all that corporatey talk and fancy training stuff, but then Ring Ring Baby came out and proved me wrong.  I don’t remember having too much interaction with you during those early years, but I know that you were there and seemed to be doing a lot of important stuff behind the scenes that Darrin liked. A later memory was when you and Joe joined forces with Phyllis and I to become an awesome TMNT team for Halloween.  That was a lot of fun and something I will probably never forget. Who knew that in just a few years I’d be joining you on the 4th floor?  

In 2019 you asked me to join your team. I was so happy and grateful for that opportunity, and still am. For most of my working life I’ve been fortunate enough to have decent managers; but you’ve 100% been the best. I always hear people complaining about their jobs and all the drama and I just tell them how lucky I am; I have no complaints at all. You understand the value of balancing family and life with work, and while that doesn’t always happen, you still make sure it’s priority. You’re always supportive and encouraging and bring out the best in people. You lead with conviction and know how to inspire trust. I’ve learned so much from you. Like how to be like an octopus and get your tentacles into every aspect of the business, making you indispensable. And you’re not just involved in everything, but you know how to build teams and get things done. I’m still figuring this part out, but I think you’re literally the engine that keeps the place running.  There is so much that happens and is successful at Confie because of your leadership. The company would be lost without you (no offense to the others). 

On a more personal level, you’ve also been a great friend. We’ve kind of shared a lot as parents raising kids around the same age, balancing family with work, and just trying to make everything work in general.  You’re a good guy and good dad. I’ve learned a lot from you. Like that we should have some family traditions. I didn’t really have any growing up, so the whole idea of “camp on the tramp” sounded like so much fun. We haven’t done that yet but plan to very soon. I also learned that kids can be jerks and that I’m not the only one to think that. Thanks for always being honest and real, and someone who really cares. No matter what happens with Confie, I’ll always consider you a friend. 

Anyways, I hope you have a wonderful 40th birthday. You deserve the best. 

Amy