10/10/2024
A Big Bear story: “The Apple Doesn’t Fall Far from the Tree.” Meet my friend Jumpei Okuda, from Okinawa Japan, & Golf Pro at The Links - Rising Star Casino, donor of the Big Bear Classic raffle. Turns out Jumpei & I unknowingly crossed paths in Okinawa, Japan in the 90’s. In getting to know one another, I shared a very special story about Bear’s mother (my grandmother) the late, great, foodservice equipment rep, Betty W**k. Betty had a joy-filled heart of gold and when she learned the Japanese church-sponsored foreign exchange student, Isaac, was going to be sent back to Japan for failing classes due to the language barrier, Betty the Great said, “No way. He will live with my family and I will teach him English.” And so it was, Bear’s mother taught Isaac to speak English and he remained in the USA, flourished in San Francisco and made a family of his own. It’s no surprise the Big Bear was one of the greatest mentors in our industry as he was raised in such love and compassion for others and loved to teach those who could learn from his wisdom. “Be the Bear.” Join us for the 9th Annual Big Bear Classic ⛳️Saturday, October 12th, at Pebble Creek Golf Course - Cincinnati, to raise funds for Cleveland Clinic Brain Center in memory of Barry H. W**k, the Loveable Big Bear 🐻