Growing up in Plymouth, there seemed to be a lot of small businesses that were started with intention of passing the enterprise from father to son. There was a blacksmith shop in back of our house called “Nickolas and Son”. It was implied the business would pass eventually to the son who would live happily ever after. In the case of “Nickolas”, the need for blacksmith skills faded and it went out of business. The son never inherited anything.
Grandpa George always dreamed of his son joining him in the heating and air conditioning business. Grandpa George never put “and Son, Inc.” in the company title, but it was obvious he wanted his son Bob to join him. Uncle Bob did take over the business and eventually turned it over to his oldest son.
For some reason, businesses usually were not passed on to daughters. I don’t know why? Maybe it was a German thing.
I notice that Herb Kohler is stepping down as CEO of the Kohler company. Living in Sheboygan, you are aware that the Kohler Company was always the premier employer in the area. Herb has been a driving force for 43 years. People in the plant affectionately called him “Herbie”. Herb was 3rd or 4th generation to lead Kohler Company. The company does not carry the title “Kohler and Sons” but it has been strongly implied that a Kohler would continue to lead. Herb’s son David Kohler will now take over. I guess we will have to refer to David as “Davey”. I don’t know if David has sons of his own or even if he would like them to continue the Kohler legacy. What would be your guess?
Where am I going with this? It occurs to me that I was born with the wrong last name. I was denied my shot at being entitled. Imagine if I was the son of Warren Buffett, Rockefeller or JPMorgan. I would have had position, money and security. I would have been happy. I’m sure of it! Wouldn’t I?
Happy May 1.
Love,
Dad