Gary Benedict

Left Illinois when i was 19, spent most of my adult life in Arizona. Manufacturing Engineering degree. 21 years in Aerospace Manufacturing / developing overseas manufacturing partnerships. Authored 2 books and contributed to several others on manufacturing technology. Masters from American Graduate School of International Management (Thunderbird). Divorced in 1997. Moved to Florida and joined Citigroup Inc in Operations roles. Karen and I were married in 2001. Became President of Citigroup Services Japan KK., living in Tokyo for 4 years and absolutely loved it ... the people and culture. Heart attack at age 54 and emergency open heart surgery led to medical retirement in 2010. Having some of the best times of my life being retired and living life on my own terms and Karen and I having time to do things together. Have home in mountains of North Idaho and home on acreage in AZ; split time between the two. For those who knew me well, am still very active and involved in drag racing. Never forget your past and the things you loved to do ... growing up does not mean rejecting the things you enjoyed and the values you held when you were young. I see far too many people who have forgotten who they were.

Nothing in particular. I really did love those years (and am now having just as much fun as i did then). Enjoyed the muscle cars we built, the stuff we smoked, the close friendships, the music, the political involvement, etc. To those of you who were a part of it with me ... thanks for the memories, you know who you are.

East

Locust