This is the first and last book that I will probably ever write. I was encouraged to write this book (my memoir) by my good friend, Tom Matthew's as we both were born in 1934 and he suggested I use some of his memoir which I did. I decided to call my memoir "The Risk Taker" as it occurred to me as I wrote this that I took many risks during my 87 years. Most proved to improve quality of life for me and my family. For example, during my 77-year career I worked for three different companies and founded 16 different businesses, some successful some not so much. My hope is you will increase your wisdom from my mistakes and successes. On each page you will find a lesson, a moral, a bit of wisdom, some little- known history, a little of my and Tom's hilarious humor, or sometimes new and sometimes useful information. I hope to influence you on two of several keys to a successful life: • Reason objectively, not emotionally • Appreciate the value of humor In the 1940's, President Franklin Roosevelt asked Winston Churchill if he would address the graduating class at his almamater, Yale University. The students were very excited to hear his speech from this hero and great orator. This is what he said," Don't give up, don't ever give up!" Probably the most inspirational and memorable graduation speech ever given! And, it applies to all of us!