A Letter to Glen Culler

C. R. Loepkey

Dear Glen,

I learned this month that the dinner in your honor will be held on September 8th when Mickey and I will be in Calgary or the Jasper National Park. With so many of your admirers attending this grand affair it will be difficult for you to miss me. Vicariously, I will be there and these would be a few of my thoughts.

I remember well the employment interview at your bedside while you were recovering from hepatitis. I felt I had little to offer you because I knew nothing about computing. However, you linked bits and pieces of my background into something that UCSB wanted -- guess you just liked me.

In the beginning I was frightened and clung to your support like a son-father relationship. You were always generous, understanding, helpful and inspiring to me. So, your counsel and aid was the foundation of my career at the university. One choice warning that you gave me is "Be careful what you ask for, you might get." This expression has been repeated so many times around the Computer Center that it has become a Culler proverb.

The richness of your university alliance did not end with computers. I am quoting Mickey in saying that you are a kind, sweet and gentle man. We enjoyed the social relationship between our families and still talk about the trip to Lake Nacimento with boat, beer and hunting for a lost finger tip. Those were fun days that at my older age have become fond memories of what younger people do.

With love and admiration from Mickey and me to you, Susan, and the children,

CR Loepkey

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