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| A Tribute to Larry Cervon |
Condolences from Larry's friends and colleagues:
From David Gleason
In 1964, at age 17, I visited Gates on Hampshire Street in Quincy to buy equipment for my new station in Ecuador. Larry took the time to show me the best set of studio equipment, and lead me around the shop floor so I could see how the things I bought were made. Perhaps anyone but Larry would have laughed at a kid with a CP... Larry didn't. He helped me in many other ways over the years, but I will always recall how he hellped get me started in radio.
From Tom Yingst
My sincere condolences go to Larry's Family. I talked to Larry just before we left for Wyoming in our Motor Home on a 6 week trip and heard about his passing away on the trip. I always will remember working with him over the years with special involvement in starting a new generation of VHF TV Transmitters by the Gates Radio Division. He will always be remembered for his deep involvement in the Radio Industry World Wide. I will miss but not forget a great Friend.
From Ed Anthony
I am saddened to learn of Larry's passing. I owe so much to his leadership and faith in me. I walked into BE one cold day in February, 1982, and he interviewed me on the spot. What did I know?
He saw something worthwhile in me and gave me a chance, his strong support, and for that he has always had my loyalty and undying appreciation.
From Louis King
I want to express my sincere condolences to Larry's family on the occasion of his death. The broadcast industry has lost a great leader in Larry Cervon. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family as they reflect on his life of service in taking Broadcast Electronics from a small startup company to a world leader in radio broadcast equipment.
From Bob Groome
I had the privilege working with Larry Cervon both at Harris (then Gates Radio Division of Harris) and when he was the head of Broadcast Electronics. What a true gentlemen! Alway up front and customer pro-active. He will be missed.
From Luis Soto
Our condolences to Larry’s family and friends. I’ll never forget the great times we enjoyed during our annual visits to Quincy, to those energy packed RF Reps meetings we used to have with Larry as our host. At dinner time, after his speech, he would have each attendee stand up and share a short (stopwatch timed!) personal experience on radio (actually he wanted to hear about how BE was doing). Initially I hated it, at the end we all had a great time with lots of laughs; what a great leader, entertainer, and host! We’ll miss Larry.
From Richard Majestic
Larry was a great friend and radio industry leader who was a champion of great quality. Over the years I enjoyed his phone calls and meetings at NAB, or when I worked for the Voice of America, his twice a year visits. Larry prepared and kept the technical side of radio professional. My wife, Ed and I are going to miss Larry. Our heartfelt condolences to Louise and Larry’s family.
From Paul McLane
Our thoughts and wishes are with everyone in both of Larry's families -- at home, and at BE. Larry loved to stop in and see us at Radio World when he came through Washington, usually talking over the Peking Duck at one of our famous local eateries. When I saw him last, although he was slowing down physically, he was as inquisitive and sharp as ever, asking me plenty of questions about international broadcast business trends and making me realize how much I still have to learn. He was a fine man and a real leader.
From Alan Parnau
What can one say about Larry Cervon that isn't already widely known. His reputation in the industry is enormous, and he will surely be missed by those who knew and respected him.
From Andy Butler
My condolences to Larry's family and to my fellow "friends of Larry" who are saddened by his loss. I learned a lot from Larry. He mentored by example and gave freely of his vast industry knowledge. Mr. Cervon was a true gentleman in an industry and time when there weren't very many left.
From Elaine Jones
I never worked directly with Larry, but he knew my name and always had friendly words for me when we met at trade shows. It seemed to me that he was the perfect manager - both caring and knowledgeable. The industry will miss you, Larry.
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Congratulations and anecdotes from Larry's Lifetime Achievement Ceremony:
From Chuck Kelly
I was a very lucky young man to have had the chance to learn from Larry. His depth of experience and deep personal commitment certainly were key factors in BE's growth, but they also benefited many of us who had the chance to learn at his side.
Larry - thanks so much for all you did - all the best to you in the years to come.
From Roger A. Vandenberg
What an amazing career...what an amazing guy!
I will never forget the first time I flew to Quincy, IL and got off the plane to meet you. You said to me, "You are just a kid! How am I ever going to be able to do a deal with you!!!"
Well, I am still a kid at age 60. But, I also still have nothing but respect for you and your accomplishments at Broadcast Electronics.
Congratulations....all the best.
From Geoff Mendenhall
Congratulations on your many achievements at several major companies in the broadcast equipment industry, which culminated in you building Broadcast Electronics into one of the world's most respected and successful radio broadcast equipment manufacturers.
I enjoyed my many years working with you to build Broadcast Electronics into a industry leader.
From John Schneider
I was fortunate to be a BE sales rep during the Larry Cervon years. Larry was an inspiration to everyone, and is singularly responsible for turning BE into the industry leader that it is today. Larry was a key player in the development of the broadcast equipment industry, and he continues to be an inspiration and a friend to this day.
From Steve Gordoni
I learned a great deal from Larry while I was working at BE (didn't we all). But even more important... not long after I left the company, I received a phone call late one night from Larry. His words of encouragement and kindness were just what I needed. He may not remember that call, but I will – always.
Congratulations and best wishes for the future.
From Peter Leffman
Congratulations on your many achievements. The recognition is well deserved.
Sorry I will have to miss the BE get together, as we will be in California visiting children and grandchildren. Regards to Louise, Cathy, Larry and family.
With Best Wishes,
Pete and Mary Leffman
From Djalma Ferreira
Thanks for teaching me so much about radio broadcasting when I joined the industry in 1967. I still remember our drive from the NAB show in Chicago to Quincy, where I witnessed how smoothly Gates was run under your helm. No wonder BE has progressed so much, from a cartridge player manufacturer in Silver Springs, to today's leading role in broadcasting.
I hope the family is well and I hope to see you soon in NY. You are certainly a leading reference in our profession.
From Mike Stanton
We were so delighted to receive an invitation from Broadcast Electronics for your Lifetime Achievement Award. Congratulations.
It is great to see that your company continues to thrive from the foundation you built with your leadership. It has been a pleasure to get to know you just over the last few years and I am glad that we have become friends.
From Chris Scherer
I first met Larry when I worked for a station that owned two BE transmitters. He was just as happy to take a moment to talk to a fresh-faced station engineer as he was to talk to one of his life-long customers. He made me feel like an important part of radio broadcasting before I really realized the reach our industry has.
From John Macdonald
You bet on me as an unknown quantity once, and here I am at BE some 18 years later. Thanks for all your early support, and for staying in touch through the years. Congratulations on your instrumental development role in the industry, and especially on recognizing and engaging the many important markets and individual customers outside US borders.
From Mark Fryer
I met Larry for the first time in 1980 when I began my career at BE fresh out of college. I was too young to realize it at the time, but later in life I came to realize just what an extraordinary and caring man Larry is.
Even after leaving BE after 15 years, anytime I would see Larry around town he would come over and ask about myself, my family and my businesses. I truly look forward to seeing him again.
From Bill Bingham
Congratulations to a true industry legend. I doubt that there are very many people who have not heard of or been involved with Larry in this business. He has come a long way from his early days as a district salesman for Gates, up through their ranks to company president and then on to BE. He has taken BE from merely a cartridge machine manufacturer to a major player in the transmitter market. I feel truly proud and honored to have been able to work with one of the industry giants. Congratulations and best wishes.
From Chris and Patricia Kreger and Staff
Congratulations to you and Louise on your achievements and longevity!
I will always hold a special place in my heart for your faith in us and the opportunity given.
From Dennis Newlon
Larry is a rare person in this day and age because he understood that his employees were a part of his dream. He shared his dream with each of us and his dream prospered. He would walk through the facility and talk with all of his employees and was not afraid to "grab a broom" and sweep the floor while I was building the first FM 5 prototype. The dream is what he gave us all and I cannot thank him enough for the opportunity to share it with him.
From Roy Ridge
Little did I know when I purchased my first cart machine from Larry in Silver Springs, that it would be the start of a great relationship for many years. Watching BE grow and prosper under the masterful direction of Larry made it an industry showcase. Larry Cervon’s “Lifetime Achievements” go far beyond the broadcast industry. Congratulations and best wishes in the future.
From Tom Yingst
My first major working relationship with Larry was at Harris/Gates Broadcast in Quincy. We were at the start of a new generation of VHF Transmitter development using a new generation modulation system developed by Hans Bott who worked for Larry in the late 60's. This was my beginning of major industry relationships in Quincy. We were big competitors in the 1988-91 period when I worked for Harris; both retiring in 1991 from management and have been in contact ever since.
Congratulations to a Broadcast leader who laid the foundation for BE in Quincy and developed it [Quincy] into a leading factor in the Broadcast Industry.
From Hal Kneller
Larry, you have many friends across the industry, many outside of BE. Quincy is a radio town with streets named for you, Hilmer and Parker. Your guidance took "Spotmaster" to great significance as Broadcast Electronics.
I visited Sam Booth recently, who told me how he equipped his first radio station in Chambersburg, PA in 1946 with equipment you sold him. It is very fitting that you are appropriately honored at this time. While I have never worked for you, I certainly have enjoyed knowing you.
From Alan Parnau
I recall having lunch with Larry when he was first thinking about taking over Broadcast Electronics. He said when he began going over the books he discovered the company actually had a negative net worth. Most people would have trouble building a successful business starting out with a new worth of zero, but to accomplish what Larry did is truly amazing. I also remember a presentation Larry gave at a NAB convention, which contained interviews he recorded with some of the giants of our industry (like Parker Gates). Larry, you need to interview yourself and add it to that presentation.
From Stanley Salek
Congratulations, Larry. Working with you at BE in the early 1980's was a rewarding and memorable experience. I have also enjoyed the times that our paths have crossed since that time. All my best wishes.
From Dick Burden
Congratulations on the vision and a job well done from one that remembers those early days with you and Ross Bevelle.
Stay well and be of good cheer.
From Gary Enroth
Congratulations, Larry, on this well deserved honor. It was both challenging and fun during those early days in Quincy. You provided many Quincians with great opportunities.
From Sue Bristow
I worked for Mr. Cervon as his Administrative Assistant until his retirement.
To coin the phrase, "He was, indeed, the best boss that I have had in my career". He retired much too soon.
Congratulations, Larry. Recognition much deserved and more.
From Jim Wood
I will always remember your contribution to the the Broadcast Industry as the result of an interview for my book "The History of International Broadcasting",Vol-2. You were clearly a part of the Broadcast Evolution World Wide and the achievements were discussed in the book. Congratulations again, Larry, for your contributions to our industry.
From Debra (Buck) Huttenburg
Larry, sincerest congratulations on your achievement at Broadcast Electronics. You transformed a small cartridge machine manufacturer into a leading global radio solutions provider. It is an honor to know you personally and professionally. All the best to you and thank for everything you have done for my family over the years!
From Tom Ash
I am pleased to see that BEI and its employees are honoring your many achievements. Certainly most deserving. BEI would not exist today had you not
rescued it from near extinction in 1974. Your initial actions to restore product quality, building a strong team and bringing to market fresh products has made
BEI what it is today. Your concern and fine treatment of company employees made work at BEI a real pleasure. I will always have many fond memories of those days under your leadership.
From Bill Mullineaux
I worked at BE in the mid-80's as an Associate Engineer in the emerging field of digital audio and controls. His attitude was always progressive and encouraging to young engineers. Larry would often walk through the development labs and talk with each engineer, interested in the details and successes of our projects. It was an honor to know and work with Mr. Cervon.
From Darryl Parker
Thank you for your contributions to the industry. You helped change this business tremendously and the impact will be indelible.
From John Lyles
Congratulations, Larry, for everything you did to make BE such a success. You were the most approachable CEO and an honorable man to work for. I thoroughly enjoyed time working with you in Quincy, developing those first FM transmitters from nothing but paper ideas. The Spotmaster, Rek-O-Kut and QRK audio products all gave us challenging engineering issues that were tackled and brought up to the highest standards which you set for the new BE that moved to Illinois.
From Paul Gregg
I met Larry at the St. Francis Hotel in San Francisco in May of 1957. I went in as a member of Bay Area Radio and came out a Gates salesman. Larry has told me that he had never done that before -- usually a new hire had to make the required trip to Quincy. I benefited greatly from Larry's tutelage, encouragement and weekly sales memos. He made a competitor out of me and a life long friend. Many thanks Larry!
From Mike Buckley
Larry, congratulations on all your great years of success and vision at BE. I'm happy for the recognition of all your contributions to both your company and the community of Quincy. It's been a true pleasure knowing you for the last 30 years!
From David Ayers
My warmest congratulations to Larry Cervon for being honored for his tireless work on behalf of BE and Quincy. He has truly had a career of highest achievement, and I value my association with Larry through the years.
From Paul Brentlinger
Congratulations and best wishes to Larry!
I distinctly remember Larry's emotion charged leadership of sales meetings when he was Sales Manager at Gates Radio. He would march across the stage, waving a newspaper like a baton, and every one in the room would leave with the inspiration to do an outstanding job.
From Jack Sellmeyer
I have had the pleasure of knowing Larry since 1967 and the privilege of working for him at Gates Radio and consulting for him at BE on a couple of FM projects.
Larry has been a bright light in the industry and a friend and mentor to many of us. It has been a privilege to know Larry and to be counted among his many friends for all these years.
From Steve Winking
Congratulations Mr. Cervon.
This is a very well deserved honor. Many other companies can learn from your wisdom and knowledge on how to make employees feel like one, big happy family.
I thoroughly enjoyed my 14 years at BE and I made many great friends during my tenure there. And best of all, BE made me feel good about my employer, which is rare in this day and age...a complement to Mr. Cervon's leadership.
All the best to BE's current employees and I wish them, along with Mr. Cervon, nothing but the best in the future.
From Jeff Steinkamp
Congratulations, Larry, this is indeed a well deserved honor and recognition of all your achievements in the broadcasting industry. I am thankful for your business leadership during my years at Broadcast Electronics as well as your mentoring and friendship these past ten years. Well done my friend.
From Ted Kemner
When I called you last Saturday, I thought the person answering was you, but he said he was your son. Sounds just like you. I hope he has even a little of your talent.
I think we go back to the time when we were both officers in the Sales and Marketing Club and you were working in the office next to Parker Gates.
To bad we can't have lunch, but Louise brought me up to date. The very best to you, Larry. You've been a good friend and I wish you well.
From John Pedlow
BE is a great company and your influence is evident throughout the organization. I recall walking through the factory with you some nine years ago (on our 40th anniversary) and being able to feel your passion for the company, the products and the people. You truly made a difference.
From Bob Grunburg
As I suspect, Larry would readily confirm that I'm probably the guy most responsible for him having joined BEI as its president some 30+ years ago, when it was a subsidiary of a minor show biz company in LA called Filmways. (I was EVP & CFO.
My own plans will not be taking me near Quincy; however, my thoughts will be with Larry. There may still be some BEI folks around who date back to its Filmways days and who remember me. If so, please give them all my warmest regards.
From Curtis Kring
I attended your Recognition Meeting. I enjoyed hearing you and seeing you again. It brought back many good memories. I wish you well.
From Bob Arnold
I worked for Larry Cervon for just a few years, yet on reflection it is amazing what a positive impact he had on my life, my career and my family. It is impossible to adequately express my gratitude and respect.
Larry, when I retire, if I have had 10% of the impact you have had on an industry and on people’s lives I will consider myself very fortunate. Your sheer energy and integrity are an inspiration for me to this day. Thank you for giving me a chance back in the day.
From Don Meier
Congratulations, Larry. I, like Tom Yingst, can remember the days at Gates down by the river. You used to ring that bell every time one of your salesman made a sale even if was only for a turn-table stylus. I have also come full circle and am now the BE rep in the Philippines. Congrats again and take care my friend.
From Bill Harland
Larry, during my time working for you I learned many things that I continue to use daily in my work and personal life. You possess a deep understanding of the broadcast equipment business and the radio and television broadcast industry that we serve. Congratulations on your receiving the recognition that your passion for Broadcast Electronics and for the City of Quincy deserves.
From Dave Evers
I was a young kid who had never been east of the Rocky Mountains, and I had packed all my belongings in my car and moved to Quincy to start a scary new job in Automation Field Service. You made a point of finding me that day, to say "Welcome to Broadcast Electronics!" From that day onward, I came to value highly your advice and counsel during my 13 years at BE.
Some of my most favorite times were the dinners at the NAB conventions, where you entertained us with stories of your years at Gates and recollections of all the people you had worked with in the broadcast industry.
You continued to be a mentor to me even after your retirement. I can't begin to tell you how much I have appreciated your support and friendship over the years. Kristi and I wish you all the best.
From John Abdnour
Best wishes and congratulations, Larry. Indeed, you are a legend in the industry. We've known each other since the days of cartridge machines and broadcast automation. You have been an inspiration. All my best to you and your family.
From John Burtle
Since I first received the invitation to attend the Lifetime of Achievement recognition of Larry Cervon I’ve been thinking a great deal of the years gone by. It was in September 1969, my first day on the job at ATC in Bloomington, IL that I met Larry Cervon. It was on that day he made the announcement that Gates/Harris was moving ATC to Quincy. Then in 1976 I rejoined Larry again at BE in Silver Spring, MD in time to see him move BE to Quincy in 1977.
Larry, as we’ve reminisced many times, those early years at BE were some really rough years but at the same time some really fun and enjoyable years. But as you remember, eradicating that “Spotmaster” name from ever being used again is when the turnaround became reality. Nevertheless, you were determined to build BE into a radio manufacturing powerhouse and you did it! Yes you did! I am indeed honored to have played some small part in helping you achieve what no one thought you could. Memories… that’s all we have now but they are so valuable.
Larry, you are indeed a legend in the broadcast manufacturing industry. Thanks for letting me be your friend.
From Bob Weirather
From personal to professional, Larry always held values in high esteem. His peers, employees and friends recognized his superior qualities and sincere interest in everyone. Over decades, that very attitude, drive and leadership, built businesses, departments and our careers. May your life history continue to compel others to reach out to do their best. Larry, may you rejoice in knowing how many lives you have touched. Best to you.
From Bob Tarsio
My association with Larry goes back to the days when I sold equipment for one of BE's dealers-Northeast Broadcast Lab. We sold a lot of Larry's gear over the years. Cart machines, consoles, transmitters you name it. The reputation that Broadcast Electronics built under Larry's guidance is nearly unmatched to this day in our industry. I can remember advice that Larry gave me when I started my company. You have to make the right products but more importantly you have to make them at the right time. This is advice that I have never forgotten. Perhaps it is why BE actually sells our products today!
Thanks Larry for leading the way for us to follow. Integrity, good business sense and the ability to read and understand the market gave us all a very good example on how to conduct ourselves in business and in life.
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Click here to read the transcript and view some photos of Larry's Lifetime of Achievement ceremony.
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