In honor of the founder of Medtronic on its 50th Birthday!

To Mr. Earl Bakken
An Incredible Man!!

What you've accomplished - Is quite incredible indeed
You took motivation and drive - With a willingness to lead
And a love of your fellow man - Whom you wanted to serve
Coupled with an inventors curiosity - With a large dose of courage and nerve!!

"One Man's Full Life" - Is written with frankness and truth
You share with us your life - From the present, back to your youth
With your brother in law, Palmer - To who much credit you give
You created Medtronic - Then ensuring it would live!!

At the time you weren't aware - Or again, maybe you were
That you had special insight - But I'm sure now you'd concur
For in reviewing your story - One theme you impart
Be honest and ethical - And speak from your heart!!

You share much of the credit - With those you chose to join in
Their characteristics were similar -With the same strong discipline
The synergy you created - Was incredible in hindsight
And it wasn't always smooth going - There were many an uphill fight!!

But even more important - You knew when to depart
Letting others take over - You had new ventures to start
But those same characteristics - That served you so well
Created North Hawaii Community Hospital - Where healing can excel!!

You refer to your wife, Doris - As your own personal guide
On your alternative journey - With her by your side
What jumps out the most - So subtle, it's almost missed
Is the humility you display - Along with the courage to persist!!

You've taken the Hawaiian culture - As part of your own
And adopted a new homeland - Where your generosity is well known
When it came time to show sincerity - You did more than talking the talk
You put your faith in Hawaiian surgeons - And also walked the walk!!

Saying you've led a full life - Is a gross understatement indeed
Working hard and sharing - Never getting caught up in greed
The wise are honored and respected - In Hawaii, they're called the TuTu
Offering love and counsel to all - Dear Mr. Bakken, that's a description of you!!
©Bud Dauphin/www.rhymelines.com