Departing Co-Workers

Updated on January 20, 2010
H.D. asks from Lafayette, LA
5 answers

I work at a construction site and we're near the end. This has been a large project, with tons of people coming and going. This week though, will be the last day for three of my co-workers. I'm not sure what to get them (I'm new to construction, so there isn't any hype or good-byes when people leave...it's the norm that everyone's time comes to an end...).
I think I'm going to get cards for two people (we weren't very close, but I like them both and will miss each of them for different reasons).
Then, there is my friend Howard. Much older gentleman and I am genuinely sad to see him go. He and I have become close friends sitting in the same office together (it was only us two in here 90% of the time). He told me this was his last week and there is a fairly good chance, his last week with his company, as there is nothing on the drawing boards (He's an architect, I'm with the Developer). He said he might take some time off, do a little volunteering and then see his options.
I'm told in construction, there is no sentimental feelings because you say 'see ya at the next job' and chances are, you will run into these individuals again in your lifetime. I just don't 'feel' that with Howard. He might even consider retiring. Home for him is in North Texas. I had the pleasure of meeting his wife and it was like we already knew so much about each other. He always asked about my husband and was interested in the activities of all my girls. We talked as we worked about his son's troubles and new grandbabies. I guess he was like a Dad to me (mine passed on many years ago). So, I would like to give him something I think. Suggestions? My intent is something that that won't get consumed (ie - candy, dinner gift cards, etc.). I'm thinking a trinket he could put on his desk in his home office or something for he and his wife.
Ideas Mamas? You all always give me the best advice!!!

What can I do next?

  • Add yourAnswer own comment
  • Ask your own question Add Question
  • Join the Mamapedia community Mamapedia
  • as inappropriate
  • this with your friends

More Answers

Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

J.L.

answers from Tulsa on

All I can say is..... please get a snapshot taken of the two of you before you lose the chance. You'll be glad you did. You could make a copy and put it under one of those glass paperweights for his future desk. That way you'll have a copy to frame for yourself. I am a caregivier and had a lady pass away after 3 years of helping her. I miss her so much-- never knew I was so attatched to her. No matter what you think- you will grieve for someone you miss or lose - at some point. I didnt have a photo of us and now it's too late. Sounds like you might like to. Do it-you will be so glad you did. J.

W.Q.

answers from Tulsa on

Hi H. D,

What a sad situation. Retirement, whether forced or not can be filled with mixed feelings.

Do you remember any conversations that you had with him about hobbies or other interests? Do you have a spending limit?

Here are a few links that might help point you in the right direction:

http://www.findgift.com/Occasions/Retirement/

http://www.giftideacenter.com/Occasion/Retirement/

http://www.redenvelope.com/business-gifts-him-rbgfm?ref=R...

http://www.findgift.com/Express-Yourself/Best-Friends/g28...

http://www.thingsremembered.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet...

http://www.gifts.com/?sid=google:GEN_gift%20ideas:P&g...

I hope this gives you a jumping off point to finding something special for your friend. Good luck.

W. Q

Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

D.P.

answers from Pittsburgh on

What about a classy address book with your name, address, phone number and email already filled in?

Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

B.J.

answers from Monroe on

Sound like you had special relationship with him if you thought him as your 2nd dad,I to lost my dad about 7 years ago you have my sympathy. You say he may retire,and you were thinking about things to go on his desk to remember you by, maybe a nice picture frame for him to put pictures of his grandbabies in, I would also make sure I had his address and he had mine to keep in touch with him and his wife after all you don't run into that kind of special friendship very often.You didn't say if the other two worked in the office or out in the field but a card would be nice just to let them know you enjoyed working with them and you'll miss them.

Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

C.B.

answers from Atlanta on

Maybe a framed photo of you and your family doing one of the activities you described or maybe do some research on achitecture in his home of north Texas some memorabilia from his home town might be a nice gift that wouldnt be consumed. You can always stay in contact with him thru cool websites such as facebook and twitter. Thats all I have for now good luck.

For Updates and Special Promotions
Follow Us

Related Questions