Frankly Speaking

Shortly before our February General meeting, I learned Rudy Magana had passed on.

Although many had jokingly said that Rudy was never going to retire - that he was goign to go out with his boots on" - it was still a shock to learn of his death.   That death eneded a long life of service.

My postal career began years later in 1962 and I retired in 1999.  It seemed long enough to me.

But, four years before I entered the ranks, he was already at it.  Rudy began carrying mail in February 1959 and he was an active duty "PROFESSIONAL" letter carrier up until the day he died.... Over 44 summers and winters!!!

"In the March 2003 issue of the newsletter,"** you will find an absolutely amazing outpouring of articles written by the East Bakersfield Letter Carriers with whom Rudy worked.  The fact that so many chose to share their thoughts about Rudy in the form of articles is a tribute to the man they knew and respected.

Rudy, Rest in Peace.  Like Sinatra, you did it your way!

Frank Thomasy, Branch 782 President

** Some of those articles that were in the March issue may be read by following this link.