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* Memorials
* Life Story
* Awards
* Quotes & Books
* Tributes
* Gallery
* Media
Memorials
* Memorial and Obituary * Memorial Service Video*
Life Stories
* Early Life
* Entrepreneur Extraordinaire * Military/POW Advocate * Iran Hostage Rescue* Policy Reformer
* Presidential Candidate* Humanitarian
Interactive Timeline* Memorials
* Life Story
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* Quotes & Books
* Tributes
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< Back
Memorials
* Memorial and Obituary * Memorial Service Video*
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Life Stories
* Early Life
* Entrepreneur Extraordinaire * Military, POW Advocate * Iran Hostage Rescue* Policy Reformer
* Presidential Candidate * Humanitarian, Community Service Interactive Timeline THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF ROSS PEROT A look at the inspirational life of a patriot, innovator and generousspirit, Ross Perot
"Eagles don’t flock, you have _to find them one at a time."_ MEMORIALS AND SERVICES 2 P.M. CT, JULY 16, 2019 Private Memorial Service - by invitation only * Eulogy by Ross Perot Jr. * Eulogy by Pete Dawkins * Eulogy by Ken Langone * Memorial Service Video* Graveside Flyover
He is survived by his wife, Margot; his sister, Bette Perot; son Ross Jr. and his wife Sarah Perot; daughter Nancy and her husband Rod Jones; daughter Suzanne and her husband, Patrick McGee; daughter Carolyn and her husband Karl Rathjen; daughter Katherine and her husband Eric Reeves; grandchildren Hill, Hunter, Sarah Catherine (and her husband Reed Ruschhaupt) and Meredith Perot; Ross (and his wife Tori), Price, Ben and Clayton Mulford; Patrick, William, Margot and Cameron McGee; Henry and Bette Rathjen; Kate Flanagan and Stuart Reeves; and three step-grandchildren Elizabeth Reeves and Caroline andWill Jones.
SALUTING ROSS PEROT
Rarely in our history have such full measures of patriotism, entrepreneurship, invention, innovation, service to country and community, and generosity of spirit been embodied in one individual. Texarkana, Texas native and longtime Dallas resident Ross Perot’s life was an American success story – one whose influence will continue to endure through the countless lives he touched worldwide.Learn More
INSPIRATIONAL LIFE STORIES Explore the chapters and stories in Ross Perot's remarkable lifePrevious
PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE "The success of tomorrow always belongs to the people investing in thefuture."
View Chapter
HUMANITARIAN
"I feel personally that I have always been rich in the things thatcount."
View Chapter
EARLY LIFE
"Sell it. You can’t eat it."View Chapter
ENTREPRENEUR EXTRAORDINAIRE "We’ve got to do everything we can to make entrepreneurial dreams areality."
View Chapter
MILITARY/POW ADVOCATE "Freedom is not free."View Chapter
IRAN HOSTAGE RESCUE
"It was that simple. It was the principle."View Chapter
POLICY REFORMER
"We’ve turned our schools from places dedicated to learning to places dedicated to play."View Chapter
PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE "The success of tomorrow always belongs to the people investing in thefuture."
View Chapter
HUMANITARIAN
"I feel personally that I have always been rich in the things thatcount."
View Chapter
EARLY LIFE
"Sell it. You can’t eat it."View Chapter
ENTREPRENEUR EXTRAORDINAIRE "We’ve got to do everything we can to make entrepreneurial dreams areality."
View Chapter
Next
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DISTINGUISHED AWARDS A LIFE OF DISTINCTION Achievements, personal honors and honorary degreesLearn More
1930
Born June 27, 1930, in Texarkana, Texas1947
High School Graduation1953
Naval Academy Graduation1956
Marries Margot Birmingham1962
EDS is Founded
1979
Iran Hostage Rescue
AN AMERICAN SUCCESS STORY An interactive timeline that details key eventsExplore Timeline
PAYING TRIBUTE
We invite you to read favorite stories from close friends and family, or share your own memories. “Texas and America have lost a strong patriot. Ross Perot epitomized the entrepreneurial spirit and the American creed. He gave selflessly of his time and resources to help others in our community, across our country, and around the world. He loved the U.S. military and supported our service members and veterans. Most importantly, he loved his dear wife, children, and grandchildren. Laura and I send our heartfelt condolences to the entire Perot family as they celebrate afull life.”
George W. Bush
Former President
“Ross Perot was a unique figure in American business and politics who lived a full and fascinating life. Although we were opponents in 1992 and 1996, I respected Ross for his support for our veterans, the business he built, and the passion he brought to his politics. He wanted to do something about the big budget deficit and rising national debt, which kept interest rates too high and took too much of middle-class Americans' income. He was a feisty and effective debater as Al Gore and I can both confirm. We can all be grateful for his enduring patriotism, active citizenship, and devotion to our veterans. Hillary and I send our thoughts and prayers to Margot, their children, and grandchildren.”Bill Clinton
Former President
“Our hearts are heavy as we bid farewell to Ross Perot. In his 89 years on earth, he lived the American dream to the fullest. Ross is a Texas legend. He will be remembered as an outstanding entrepreneur, philanthropist, and dedicated husband and father. Ross fought for what he believed in & his national grassroots movement changed politics forever. Heidi & I send heartfelt prayers & condolences to his wife Margot and the entire Perot family as they grieve the loss of a loving husband, father & grandfather. May he rest in peace.”Ted Cruz
Texas Sen.
“Today, we are all mourning the passing of Ross Perot. During my time in the Senate, I had the honor of working closely with him in securing much needed medical care for our veterans returning from Desert Storm. America owes him a deep debt of gratitude and he will bemissed.”
Kay Bailey HutchisonFormer Texas Sen.
“Ross Perot exemplified what it means to be a Texan and an American. Born into extreme poverty, he rose up to become one our nation's most successful entrepreneurs and an exemplar of the American dream. More importantly, however, Ross Perot was a devoted husband, family man, and servant of God. His charitable work and his support of the United States Military and its veterans will forever be remembered. I ask that all Texans join Cecilia and me in remembering one of the Lone Star State’s greatest sons and keep him and his family in theirprayers.”
Greg Abbott
Texas Gov.
“Just learned of death of H. Ross Perot at age 89. He was a brilliant businessman, a true American patriot, and a generous philanthropist. From humble start in Texarkana, USA he lived and proved the American Dream. Condolences to his wonderful family.”Mike Huckabee
Former Arkansas Gov. “My heart is heavy for the loved ones of Ross Perot as they come together to celebrate the extraordinary life of an extraordinary American. He will be sorely missed, but his presence will continue to be felt across our state and nation for future generations.”Will Hurd
Rep.
“Ross Perot was a veteran, successful businessman and philanthropist who spent his life working hard to make our city, state, and country better. He personified the American dream and will be sorelymissed.”
Eric Johnson
Dallas Mayor
“I first met Ross at our 1973 function in San Francisco. At that time I commented that to bring all of the Son Tay POW's and the Raiders to San Francisco, all expenses paid, had to cost him a fortune, why did you do it? Ross said that he had heard that the Son Tay POW's and the Son Tay Raiders wanted to meet each other and the only way that was going to happen was for him to bring us together, so he did it! He was a true HERO to all of us and will be missed by all. A Patriots, Patriot!!! RIP Ross you earned it in SPADES! Al Brunstrom, Colonel, USAF Retired”Alan Brunstrom
Colonel, USAF (Ret.) “I am deeply saddened by the loss of Ross Perot, Sr., a visionary who left his mark on our state and nation. Mr. Perot was a trailblazer who saw Fort Worth’s potential and invested heavily in our city through numerous economic development endeavors. Above all, Mr. Perot was a patriot who selflessly served our country in many capacities. Mr. Perot will be missed, but his legacy will continue to positively impact Fort Worth and change lives for the better. We extend our condolences to the entire Perot family as they mourn the loss of an incredible husband, father and grandfather.”Betsy Price
Fort Worth Mayor
“Ross Perot was a staunch supporter of the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces. As Rick Perry shared recently, Perot quietly and tirelessly helped wounded veterans and their families. With his passing, service members past and present lost an advocate, and the nation lost a patriot. Dawn and I extend our condolences to his familyand friends. ”
General David Goldfein Chief of Staff of the U.S. Air Force “I first met Ross Perot at Marine Barracks 8th & I, as a Captain in the United States Marine Corps during the first presentation of the awarding of the Leftwich Trophy awarded for leadership which he created in honor of LtCol James Leftwich his friend and roommate at the US Naval Academy, who was killed in Vietnam while leading his Recon Battalion in combat. Ross had Felix de Weldon, sculptor of the Iwo Jima Memorial at Arlington Cemetery, design and build the Leftwich Trophy and over the years attended most of award ceremonies with the Leftwich family. It was an honor to be at many of those ceremonies with Ross and the awardees. However, having been around Ross over the years and had the opportunity to be in his office many times, perhaps the most memorable visit was a few years ago, after I had retired from the US Marines. We had gone to see Ross about his support of the Dallas Rotary Club's Salute to American Veterans. As we discussed the project with Ross he said let's take a picture. As we put Ross in the middle he says, as only Ross Perot could say, " Jim, let me get my chair. I need to be taller than you in this picture." I then helped him up on the chair. I looked up at him and said, " a giant among men", and Ross looked down at me and says to me with a Ross Perot smile, "in his own mind!". We all had a great laugh and took the picture. I contend and certify as many before me have, " He was a Giant among men!" The World, America, Texas, Family, Friends, and the Dallas community has lost an original and one of the best human beings God ever made! What a legacy! He will be greatly missed. ” Major General James Williams United States Marine Corps (Ret.) “We at the Perot Museum mourn the passing of Ross Perot, a Texas giant, just as we celebrate his life among us. Mr. Perot enlivened the Museum with his generous and caring spirit and served as an example of kindness, compassion, and innovation. His legacy as leader, independent thinker, technological trailblazer and American patriot will endure and continue to serve as inspiration in fulfilling our mission. Our heartfelt thoughts are with the entire Perot family atthis time.”
Perot Museum of Nature and Science “EastWest Institute Remembers the Life of Henry Ross Perot The EastWest Institute acknowledges the loss of Ross Perot, who passed this morning at age 89 surrounded by family members at his Dallas home, following a battle with leukemia. His obituary remembers, "In business and in life, Ross was a man of integrity and action." "Ross Perot, Sr. was a man of incredible integrity and vision, emblematic of a generation that always had the best interests of his country and community," commented Dr. William J. Parker, CEO of the EastWest Institute. "Our heartfelt condolences are extended to the entire Perot family." Born June 27, 1930 during the throes of the Great Depression, Perot became an Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts at age 13, and received an appointment to the United States Naval Academy in 1949, where he served as the president of his class and chairman of the Honor Committee. It was there he met his future wife Margot Birmingham, with whom he shared 62 years of marriage and five children. A veteran of the Korean War, Perot went on to become an incredibly accomplished entrepreneur and humanitarian. He received numerous accolades for his contributions to the business and philanthropic worlds including, the Winston Churchill Award, presented by Prince Charles and Nancy Reagan; the Dwight D. Eisenhower Award for his commitment to national security; the Distinguished Graduate Award from the U.S. Naval Academy; and the National Patriot Award from the Congressional Medal of Honor Society. He twice ran for President of the United States as a third-party candidate. He is survived by his wife, his five children and his 16 grandchildren. Perot’s son, Ross Perot Jr., serves as Chairman of the Board at the EastWest Institute.”EastWest Institute
“The U.S. Chamber and the American business community join with the nation in mourning the passing of Ross Perot: a man of historic proportion, a leader with great courage, and an innovator who always challenged conventional wisdom. Over nearly five decades, hundreds of thousands of Americans have supported themselves and their families by going to work at a company founded by Ross Perot. Countless others have done the same at businesses launched with the help of or inspired by the one-time salesman turned entrepreneur. He was a vigorous supporter of his employees and a philanthropist with clear objectives and a warm heart. America was built by men and women who had the vision to create great things and the tenacity to turn their visions into reality—individuals like Ross Perot. Perot exemplified the entrepreneurial spirit that continues to fuel the greatest economy in the history of the world. Perot also personified the idea of the civically engaged businessman and was perhaps America’s most significant supporter of the U.S. military. In countless ways, he pushed to strengthen the country he loved. Perot was a friend and an inspiration to me personally and to the entire American business community. The U.S. Chamber is saddened by his passing, and we join countless others in celebrating his legacy, which will serve as an inspiration to future entrepreneurs and business leaders. - Thomas J. Donohue, CEO, U.S. Chamber of Commerce” US Chamber of Commerce “Ross Perot believed deeply in our country and always fought for what he thought was right. His mark on Apple and on America made a difference and will not be forgotten.”Tim Cook
Apple CEO
“We mourn the loss of extraordinary, courageous patriot and entrepreneur Ross Perot, family friend, who died at age 89. Thinking of his loved ones.”Steve Forbes
Chairman and editor-in-chief, Forbes Media “Nancy Ann and I were extremely saddened to learn of the passing of our good friend, Ross Perot, Sr. We extend our deepest sympathy to his wife, Margot and their children Ross, Jr., Nancy, Suzanne, Carolyn, and Katherine and all of their many grandchildren. Ross Perot Sr. was a brilliant and visionary businessman, ahead of his time in the establishment of EDS. His legacy of loyalty to the United States of America is legendary. He will be missed, not just by his family, but by his many friends throughout the world.”Ray L. Hunt
Dallas businessman
“Ross was a wonderful American citizen who had as much pride in - and love for - this country as any person I have ever known. Whether it be community, philanthropy, family, patriotism or business, he excelled in every aspect of a beautiful American life. He was truly an original, and he will be greatly missed.”Jerry Jones
Dallas Cowboys owner “Ross Perot was an incredible individual, patriot, entrepreneur and visionary business leader. He was underestimated much of his life and leaves behind a larger than life legacy. He epitomized all that is great about America. Humble beginnings and a great work ethic are stepping stones to incredible success.”T. Boone Pickens
Dallas businessman
“I really enjoyed doing Ross Perot, such a fun character to play. …He loved it and was very nice about it. …He had this distinct Texas drawl and this old-fashioned pragmatic servitude about his policies, and he'd be very impatient when people didn’t get it. He was a colorful American character.” Comedian Dana Carvey The Los Angeles Times “Ross Perot was a true independent who fought for what he believed in and changed the conversation about politics in this country. I'll never forget him announcing his candidacy on Larry King Live or his debate with Al Gore over NAFTA. Rest in peace, Ross.”Larry King
Talk show host
“Ross Perot lived the American dream while building a Fortune 500 business from scratch. His business acumen was nothing compared to his leadership and philanthropy in the community. Ross and Margot have given back to the community and not once have they asked for recognition nor credit. Ross relentlessly supported our veterans, active duty military, and all first responders with vigor and passion. Most importantly he was a dedicated family man. Margot, his kids, and grandkids were always his top priority. He will truly be missed. - Marianne & Roger Staubach”Marianne Staubach
The Staubach Family
SPIRIT OF GENEROSITY CONTINUE THE CAUSE Click the organization below to make a donation.Make A Donation
THANK YOU
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to one of Ross’ favorite charities: the Circle Ten Council of the Boy Scouts of America, the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, the Salvation Army DFW, the North Texas Food Bank, the Visiting Nurse Association of Texas and Teach for America. An act of kindness to a friend, neighbor or stranger in your community will further honor his memory and celebrate the influence of a remarkable life. – The Perot Family The Life and Legacy of Ross Perot* Memorials
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All Content and Images © Perot Family 2020. All Rights Reserved.Privacy Policy
EULOGY BY ROSS PEROT JR.×
Welcome.
Distinguished guests....Thank you for being with us today. We are honored by your presence. And have been moved by the outpouring of love and support we have received over the past few days. On behalf of our entire family, we thank you. My father was always prepared and loved to plan...He was a man who paid attention to the details. The one thing he did not plan, however, was his own funeral. But I can assure you...Looking across this sanctuary today and who is here...Dad would have loved every minute of this. This is an extraodinarily special event for him.----
I remember in 1992, a reporter looked at me and said: "It must be tough to be the son of Ross Perot." I looked at him and thought – "define tough." Because if you were a part of our family...You were in for an amazing adventure...One filled with unconditional love and lots of action withPapa.
In our family, he was our hero.----
Ross Perot had a strong set of values and those values guided hisactions.
He was born to Gabriel and Lulu May Perotin 1930 in Texarkana, Texas. Dad always said his first big break in life was being born to twoloving parents.
They taught him and his sister Bette the value of faith and family. In his youth, the Boy Scouts instilled in him a sense of duty. He earned his Eagle Scout rank at the age of 13 and lived his life bythe Scout Oath:
"On my honor, I will do my best, to do my duty, to God and my country –and to help other people at all times..."----
Dad’s next big break was his acceptance to the Naval Academy where he learned the value of leadership. He was President of his junior and senior class,and the brigade commander....The Academy also taught him the value of honor. He chaired the Committee that wrote the first Naval Academy’s honor code that’s still in use today. These core values –faith, family, duty, leadership, and honor --formed the foundation of his life that would impact millions of people around the world. But the person who had the greatest impacted on him was our mother,Margot Birmingham.
They met on a blind date...And married on September 15, 1956. A banker’s daughter from Greensburg, Pennsylvania, and the son of a cotton broker from Texas....It was the beginning of a beautiful loveaffair.
----
After finishing his service in the Navy, my parents drove to Dallas with all their possessions in the trunk of their car to pursue theAmerican dream.
Dad worked at IBM. Mom was a teacher at Greenhill School. They lived in an apartment only a few minutes from this church. My first memories of those early days are of Mom and Dad coming into the room I shared with my sister Nancy....We would say our prayers together each night. I remember Dad would give us a big hug and say: "BUDDIES TO THE END." In those early days, my father became the top salesman for IBM...His focus and work ethic were extraordinary. He was a born salesman, starting at age 6 selling flower seeds, Christmas cards, and newspapers. He sold so much at IBM, they put a cap on his quota. I assure you at all Perot Companies, there is no limit on our sales teams!! And my father would make that clear to them on a regular basis. And he would use a phrase from my grandfather. He would say "sell it, you can’t eat it!" At age 32, with a wife and two children and 1,000 dollars, he started his own company – EDS. His vision was a technology service business and a new industry was launched.----
At EDS, the recruiting motto was "EAGLES DON’T FLOCK. You find themone at a time."
He built his teams by recruiting directly from the military because that’s where he knew he could find proven leaders. And he likedcombat veterans.
Dad always credited that early leadership team as being the foundation of his success. As EDS started to grow, Mom and Dad’s family started to grow too -- Suzanne, Carolyn and Katherine were born. As children, we watched what one man could do. Ross Perot would not sit on the sidelines. He entered the fight—full speed.We watched him IN THE ARENA as he came to theaid of the Prisoners of War in Vietnam. He focused the world’s attention on the plight of the POWs...and the North Vietnamese were forced to improve the conditions for our men. I remember a few years ago, former POW and Congressman Sam Johnson. Sam,thank you for beingwith us, today. Sam toured Dad’s museum...When he saw the photos honoring POWs, he looked at Dad andsaid:
"Without your efforts, I would not be alive today." In the 70s, as EDS was expanding around the world, Dad still prioritized being home for dinner with his family....Sometimes he even brought the world home to us. I remember having incredible guests around the dinner table: astronauts, fighter pilots, business leaders and political figures, including Ronald Reagan, Margaret Thatcher and Lord Mountbatten. Our lives were changed again in 1979 when two EDS employees were takenhostage in Iran.
Again, Dad was in the arena. Winston Churchill had a famous quote "ACTION THIS DAY" but even that was not fast enough for our father. As Pete talked about "Ross time." Dad wanted "ACTION NOW." So he risked his own life to visit the two men imprisoned in Tehran. He also assembled a team of EDS volunteers and under the leadership of Colonel Bull Simons, the men were freed and brought back home. It became the largest jailbreak in history, a legendary act. The story is told in the book "ON WINGS OF EAGLES" by Ken Follett. And Ken, thank you for being with us today.----
His life of service took a surprising turn in 1992, when he entered the arena yet again....This time running for President of the UnitedStates.
He knew we could do better as a country and he felt compelled to serve. Our family followed on yet another amazing adventure. After the 1992 and 1996 campaigns, he focused on getting his company, Perot Systems, into "ship-shape." It would become the second company he took public — a very rare feat. Just like all things he tackled in life, Dad focused on every littledetail.
When Dad met clients, he would give them his direct telephone number...He would tell them: "Call me day or night if you have anyproblems."
I can tell you this, our team made sure, Dad never received that call. Our father always taught us that financial success is a gift, and a resource to help others. His generosity supported individuals and organizations in our community, nation, and around the world, including: * The Boy Scouts of America* The Perot Museum
* UT Southwestern Medical School * The Salvation Army * Gulf War Syndrome Research, and * Teach for America to name a few. In honor of their mother who fed those in need during the Great Depression, my father and his sister Bette, were founders of the North Texas Food Bank and donors. To honor our incredible mother, his lifelong partner, my father also funded the Margot Perot Women’s and Children’s Hospital at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital. In the past few days, we have been overwhelmed by all of the NEW stories we are hearing about what he did for others over the years. Many of which we never knew. These were also the quiet acts, or quiet investments my Dad made in everyday people – some were veterans, others just needed help or acompassionate hand.
These quiet acts were the most valuable and the most important investments my Dad made. Because through these efforts, our father improved the lives ofthousands.
My father was focused, he worked hard, and he had a lot of fun alongthe way.
* He never missed a chance to dance...Mom and Dad were always the last to leave the dance floor * He had a love for horses, a love for Texas, and a love for allthings fast.
* His practical jokes were also legendary And, of course, my father loved to celebrate. You couldn’t attend a celebratory event – no matter who was involved or what was being celebrated – without having him call for three cheers....Hip,Hip,Hurray. Some of my happiest memories in life were spent on the water boating with my Dad. As soon as my Dad could afford it, he bought our first lake house. I also remember going to the boat dealer to buy our first boat – it was used OF COURSE!....Dad loved a good deal, he loved to trade and he only paid cash. Every Saturday on the way to Lake Grapevine, we stopped at the Howard Johnson's for hot dogs and peppermint ice cream....Those were the makings of a perfect Saturday together for our family. The Navy gave Dad his love for the water. And as the years went by, his own fleet started to grow. The boats got faster and louder...When the boats outgrew Lake Grapevine. We moved to Lake Texoma. Then on to Bermuda...He could not outgrowthe Atlantic Ocean. Nothing made him happier than jumping the waves in his speedboat or pulling his grandchildren on a banana boat. The Need for Speed was year 'round. We had decades of wonderful memories skiing as a family in Colorado. Our father was always the first one up on the mountain every morning and the fastest skier down on every run and Pete what you didn’t realize, he was racing you. And in his mind, he was always winning. Whether it was boating, or skiing, or business, he loved to win and hated to lose. As he once said in a speech... "There’s no ribbon for second place." Dad never wanted to slow down. But in February of this year, our family knew we only had months to go. The Lord gave us another 5 months with Dad. During that time, he was still going to the office on the weekdays and the lake each weekend. He was surrounded by his family, friends, and wonderful caregivers. Mom and Dad would spend their nights holding hands and watching classic movies...And Dad still wanted to dance with Mom. Our last trip to the lake was three Saturdays ago.. I arrived 5 minutes late...And I still got the look... On the way out, Dad insisted he stop and give Mom a kiss. At the lake, we sat together holding hands looking at the water. We did not say much....we did not need to ... We had said all we could to each other. He sat in his father’s rocking chair....We looked at photos of his mother and his father. My father passed away in peace... Surrounded by his family, holding my mother’s hand. Condolences have come from around the world, as my father touched thelives of millions.
From Zimbabwe, a family friend wrote, "THE TOM-TOMS WILL BEAT IN OUR VALLEY --FOR THE LEGEND THIS WEEKEND." My father had courage, character, and integrity – legendary qualities. A true patriot. My father will be missed, but never forgotten. Ross Perot did his duty to God, his country, his family, his friends. He helped other people at all times. His legacy will live through all he touched. THANK YOU, GOD, FOR THIS WONDERFUL MAN.BUDDIES TO THE END.
ROSS PEROT EULOGY
BRIGADIER GENERAL PETER M. DAWKINS, U.S. ARMY (RET’D)×
We gather here today to remember, and pay tribute to a remarkablehuman being.
A man who was simple and direct... and yet embodied so many of the qualities that define greatness. He was a source of seemingly limitless energy. He was a practical, "can do" man-of-action and – at the same time – a tireless dreamer. He was Bill Gates, Leonardo Da Vinci, and Rambo, all wrappedinto one!
He was tough, creative, and determined: a vibrant, thunderous dynamo. Sometimes he actually seemed to be a kind of thunderbolt! And he was wise – wise in a sometimes unconventional way – but was always moving forward. You know, for a long time I thought I had lived an interesting life. Then I met Ross Perot! Wow. To truly understand Ross, you have to begin at the beginning. Let me offer a brief review: * At the age of 7, Ross began his first job: delivering newspaperson horseback.
* He would go on to graduate from the Naval Academy: A 144-pound, 5 foot 6 inch package of enthusiasm, commitment, and inspiration! * After serving in the Navy, and having had a very successful run at IBM, Ross founded EDS – with a $1,000 loan from the "love of his life", Margot. It turned out to be such a stunning success that he sold it, and founded Perot Systems. And two decades after that, he sold Perot Systems for nearly $4 billion dollars. * In 1992, Ross announced on CNN’s "Larry King Live" that he was going to enter the race for the Presidency. In a way that reflected what he was, and who he had become, Ross kicked off that campaign with a promise: "I won’t run as a Democrat or a Republican..." he said. "Because I refuse to sell out to anybody but the American people." Ross’s run for the Oval Office was historic. He harnessed the rapidly expanding power of Cable TV, and took his vision and message directly into living rooms across the country. You didn’t have to know Ross personally to know he meant every word he said. People from all corners of the land saw an authenticity they embraced and, in truth, an authenticity they had been searching for. They found a man who spoke as much from his heart, as from his gut. Someone who had a special skill at boiling down the problems we faced in honest, understandable terms. And he punctuated his solutions to those problems with his trademark honesty by telling them: "It’sjust that simple."
In Ross, Americans found the wholesome, hometown values of Norman Rockwell, combined with the power of Teddy Roosevelt’s "Big Stick". Somehow, by that special "brew" of character, determination,and spirit, he showed us the best our country has to offer. Over the years of my friendship with Ross, I came to know and admire him. And it was an honor to be able to call him "my friend". During our times together I learned a lot about Ross. Two importantthings stand out:
* First, he loved to ski. * Second, he definitely was not a Bode Miller – or a Jean ClaudeKilly!
He never took lessons, or worked on technique, but he truly loved the joy – the thrill! – of being on the mountain in Vail, Colorado. Though the years, I had the good fortune of skiing together with Margot and Ross, as well as with whatever "band" of family-and-friends happened to assemble on the slopes with them. The routine with Ross always seemed to be, more or less, the same. At the top of the lift, we would all gather 'round, and begin to plan what Run we would take next. In the middle of that process – and before a decision had been made – Ross would announce, "I’m off"! And — indeed — "off" hewould go.
We'd chase after him, as he zigged and zagged from one Run to another. And almost without exception he would "out-run" our pursuit, and begone.
It took a while, but I came to realize it wasn’t that Ross didn’t want to ski with us. It was simply that we were operating at normal human speed... while he was always moving at "Ross Speed". You know... now that I’ve had the opportunity to look back on his life, I’ve come to realize something very key: That it was living at "Ross Speed" that made it possible for him toaccomplish so much!
His unique, accelerated "way of life" gave him the time to create 2 different billion dollar companies... to champion broad education reform throughout the state of Texas... to run for the highest office in the land... And so much more, besides! During the Vietnam war, Ross pressed forward with unrelenting effort and determination to ease the suffering of American Prisoners of War. It was "pure Perot" from the very beginning and, as we know, it became his lifelong passion and commitment. Despite all his success,and all his personal attributes that contributed to it, his defining characteristic – the one that gave him the most power, and drive, and purpose – didn’t reside within him. It surrounded him, or rather, he surrounded himself with it. And that was his family.* Margot
* Ross Jr and his wife Sarah * Katherine, Carolyn, Suzanne, Nancy, and their husbands. They were his pride and joy, and supporting them became a kind of personal creed. No degree of focus or intensity was excessive. No extreme of effort was unwarranted. His loyalty was supreme and absolute. His love unqualified, and profound. So, as we send off a husband, a father, a grandfather, and a very special friend... it’s a farewell, not a goodbye. Ross Perot will remain a permanent fixture in our hearts, and our memories. His legacy will continue to inspire those who yearn for more, and who can’t digest the word "impossible"! His life will continue to speak to the hearts of those of us who cherish the values and hard work that is America. And while the shadow he cast upon this earth may gradually fade, his spirit will remain a steadfast "torch"... One that will continue to light up the consciousness of this great country, that he loved so much. As Ross himself would say: "It’s just that simple." God bless you, good and generous friend. God bless.ROSS PEROT EULOGY
KEN LANGONE, CO-FOUNDER OF HOME DEPOT×
This is the place to be honest: how I wish this day never came. Ross Perot's business success speaks for itself - He was a visionary. He saw limits of corporate power: He told General Motors they'd regret spending all that money twenty-five years before they went bankrupt. When he founded EDS he created the cloud, or what is now called thecloud.
But there was never anything or anybody close to being as important to Ross as his family. I never saw a man so committed to their family. Margot, his lovely wife of almost sixty-three years. Ross, Nancy, Suzanne, Carolyn, Katherine. Their spouses, his sister, his mother, his grandchildren, his father. He was truly, truly dedicated. Family was always first, but not far behind was faith, country and friends. He was devoted to his friends, and I was fortunate enough tobe one of them.
This past Sunday morning, one of the readings at Mass was the Good Samaritan. The priest’s homily was about the Good Samaritan and all of a sudden, it hit me - that's Ross, that's Ross Perot. He was remembered and he will be remembered for the big, bold moves he made, but I'm always going to remember him for the depths of his consideration and kindness, down to the smallest things possible forthe other person.
Right after we started working on the papers for the underwriting of EDS, we were in his office one day and we were both talking about how grateful we were to be Americans and how grateful we were that we lived in this great country and all this country did for us. I said, "You know Ross, I'm kind of embarrassed - I should fly the biggest flag on the biggest flagpole in front of my home in gratitude for what this great country did for me." Two weeks later, I'm coming home from work and I drive into thedriveway.
Yes, you guessed it - there's this enormous flagpole with the American flag and an eagle with its wings spread at the very top and at the base was a plaque: "To three fine, young Americans: Ken Jr., Stephen and Bruce Langone From their father’s friend, Ross Perot." That was Ross Perot. Christmas Eve, 1968: EDS is now public for three months. Mitch Hart, Ross, Tom Marquez and I were traveling all over America introducing investment institutions to EDS. Christmas Eve - there's a knock on the door. It's Tom Marquez with a little box and he said, "Ross would like Elaine to have this for Christmas." Christmas morning, Elaine opened up the package and here was this beautiful pin with a note: "Elaine – thank you for sharing Ken with us these past three months. Merry Christmas, Ross Perot" Elaine has that pin on today, by the way. He gets involved with the Prisoner of War effort, calls me up and he said, "We got to get this done." I said, "Well, Ross - what would you like me to do?" He said, "Well we need Lomotil, because these kids all have dysentery. We need blankets and we need candy in tin cans." I call him back, "We've got the Lomotil, we’ve got the blankets, I got the candy and cellophane bags." He said, "No, no, no - it's got to be in tin cans." I said, "Well, it'll pack easier in cellophane bags." He said, "No, it's not about the candy," he said, "It's about the cans. The kids will catch the rainwater and they'll drink that, and they won't re-infect themselves again with the dysentery." That was RossPerot.
The only time he ever missed Christmas with his family, he had led a group of wives and children whose husbands were prisoners of war in Vietnam to Paris and he called me up three days before Christmas. They're rolling, they're all in Paris. They're in front of the North Vietnamese embassy demonstrating and want to know information about how their loved ones were or where they were or whatever information they could get, and he led this. He called me up and he said, "You know these people are coming home Christmas night and we got to figure a way out for them to have a Christmas." This was the genius of Ross Perot – He got you to do things you never thought you could do. It was amazing, amazing, the inspiration that this man gave to all of us. Anyway, sure enough we had a Christmas. We had a Santa Claus waiting for the kids at the Intercontinental Hotel at Kennedy Airport and we had a truckload of toys for these kids and they had their Christmas. That was Ross Perot - he was great with bold moves, but kindness to individuals meant everything. His company was staffed not with people from the Harvard Business School or NYU or Stanford – there were kids from all over small-town America like he was and he said, "You come with me and I want to give you an opportunity, and everything that happens is going to happen for one reason and one reason alone: merit." That was all that mattered. The guy who did the best job or the gal who did the best job, they got the job. For example, fifty years ago his CFO was a woman - he was committed to equality and diversity in his business long before it was politically correct and so was I fifty-one years ago. He was a born leader, but he was a born leader with a great sense ofhumor.
I brought a team of white shoe, stiff lawyers down from New York to work on the underwriting of EDS and we’re sitting in his office and he says, "Fellas," he said, "we're going down to Johnny Cumming’s barbeque pit for lunch today. I've ordered Johnny to make the specialty of the house which is barbecued armadillo. It's the thing I like the most, and that's what we're going to have for lunch." So, we go downstairs, and here's all these properly bred, well-trained New York lawyers with their trays and they go to the counter and get this barbecued armadillo and we all sit down and everybody's pushing the meat around the plate doing everything with it but eating it. After twenty minutes this twinkle - he always had this twinkle in his eyes he had that was it was truly a God-given gift – "Fellas," he said, "I hope you enjoyed that." He said, "That's Texas barbecuedbeef, brisket."
I looked at him and I said, "I owe you one, Tex." Three months later, the day of the underwriting - I said, "We're going to have a special lunch today. I've got it arranged at a very exclusive club in New York called the Umbrella Club. I've got limousines down at the garage of the building. We're going to go down, get in the limousines, then go to the club." He was a legend. He was a business visionary. He was a presidential candidate. He was a national figure. But, he was the most down-to-earth, decent, caring man I ever met. Above all else, that's what he was and he was special in every respect. I think often of what you say about somebody like this, and I think the best thing that says it all is at the end of the day, his family was the bedrock foundation of all he was. To his family: you are his legacy, you are his treasure. He’s right now in peace and I know he’s being embraced by our Lord, Jesus Christ. He kept the faith and he was the Good Samaritan.GRAVESIDE FLYOVER
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In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to one of Mr. Perot’s favorite charities: the Circle Ten Council of the Boy Scouts of America, the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, the Salvation Army DFW, the North Texas Food Bank, the Visiting Nurse Association of Texas and Teach for America. An act of kindness to a friend, neighbor or stranger in your community will further honor his memory and celebrate the influence of aremarkable life.
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