Newsletter Follow-up on Les Bergsten

It has been a tough year so far for the antique Cat community.  Sadly, Les Bergsten, who was recently featured in a YP article and a long-time Heartland Earthmover, passed away late last week.  I really enjoyed getting to know Les a little bit the last few years, and am very thankful that Mary Clark set up the time to interview him last December.  

I will tell one more story not included in the article:

In retirement, Les became known for attending shareholder meetings for Caterpillar and also John Deere, as he owned stock in each.  He was recognized by both companies for his consistent attendance at the meetings, including an award presented to him by current Cat Chairman Jim Umpleby for 25 years of consecutive attendance.  In addition to his attendance, Les was also known for not being afraid to ask questions at the meetings, especially related to issues that impact customers.  Les recounted an experience where, while on vacation, he met several Cat truck engine customers who were at wits end with issues they were having.  Les raised this issue with the Caterpillar BOD and Executive leaders at the next shareholder meeting.  Upon returning to Peoria after the meeting, he received a call from the head of the engine division, and was given a tour of the facility and an explanation about what they were doing to fix the problem he had raised.  Caterpillar subsequently eliminated the portion of the meeting where shareholders could ask questions the way Les did.  

God speed Les.  It was an honor to know you.  

Dave