It is impossible to give Gene a proper tribute in this business. From the  1960's through the mid 80's, Gene's name and Bullard International were synonymous with all that 'is' this business. He lived it, he breathed it and he slept precious little. As I have mentioned throughout these pages, although Gene began to do quite well and didn't have to struggle financially, he did not do this for the financial reward only— he loved it. He also loved the constant interaction with those who were excited about the sport and this business. Knowing that he had taught a person something new about building a rod or wrapping a rod, thrilled him to no end. I hope for those who did not know Gene, his reputation in this business, or his tremendous contribution to the craft, will indulge me while I introduce you to a man said by many to deserve the title of "Father of Modern Rod Building."  
  
Anyone who knew Gene well also knew that he was a task master. He could be very tough and opinionated, and not always easy to get along with. Knowing him as I did, as a family member, he had good reason for being all those things. Gene was one of the smartest men I've ever known. You can afford to be tough and expect the best of others when you expect no less of yourself— and deliver. Because of his vast knowledge and experience you could not help be captivated by him, or at the very least respect him.
 
 The personal side of Gene was a kind, devoted, flawlessly generous friend to many men and women. Again, anyone who knew him well, knew this to be absolutely true. Gene was one of the most devoted sons to a mother and father I have ever seen. How many CEO's or V.P.'s of organizations do you know that mention their mother and father many times through company newsletters? Gene did. He also took care of them in their last years. Gene moved his father in with him after losing his mother— where he devoted all of his personal time to him. He never traveled or left his father's side.  All fishing trips or any other trips came to a halt in lieu of waiting on his father hand and foot. Again, what CEO or V.P. of a company does that? Gene did. Through many visits to my grandfather at Gene's home, my mother was endlessly amazed at the lengths Gene went to for their father. My mother is eternally grateful for what Gene did that was near impossible for any other family member to do. I suppose my mother was closer to Gene than anyone, and her loss is one of extraordinary depth.
 
 There were many nights when Gene ate at our table while struggling to get the business started. There was no loss of entertainment when he was around. As my mother would tell it, she wanted to pull her hair out when Gene would initiate such horse play with all of us kids that we finally broke something or lost all control— which kids will do. Threat of discipline usually ended those sessions! Gene brought our uncle Al Westbook with him on many occasions. Al was Gene's roommate and close friend for many years. Al would probably tell you that there aren't too many people who could room with Gene. We truly thank Al for having great patience and being such a good friend to Gene and a great uncle to us. Al married and they still live happily here in Texas.
 
Thank you for allowing me to give you a glimpse of the man behind the pioneer, the innovator, the Father of Modern Rod Building.