Wednesday, February 22, 2023
John Panabaker changed my life in a way that I have always been thankful for and I have tried to pay that forward. This why I wanted to share our story to say thanks and hope it inspires others, like it did me.
His life touched many, and although he is not around to read this, I hope his family (descendants) friends and others do. John inspired me and gave me confidence to believe in myself in a different way. To many he was a great, caring, talented, and giving person. And although I did not know him well, he truly made a difference in my life. So, I decided I would share this story. My hope is that it inspires you.
Over 35 years ago we met. I was introduced to him on the referral of a mutual connection. I had asked that person if they knew anyone fairly senior at Mutual Life that I could talk with at there that had a good understanding of the company and the industry and where each was headed. He said I should meet with John Panabaker and to let him know that he had recommended to me to talk with him.
At the time, I was working for one of the top five largest banks in Canada, in a bank branch in an administration role. John, was Chairman of Mutual Life - one of the largest insurance companies in Canada. After I picked myself off the floor, figuratively of course, I said to myself, why not. Somewhat to my surprise, John, or should I say Mr. Panabaker, said yes and agreed to host me at his office. His office was one of the nice old ones in the older part of the building, with a fireplace. We met and had a very interesting and cordial conversation - truly warm, friendly and helpful. He also referred me to some others in the company to talk with to explore more.
The substance of our conversation was not as life-changing as was the way that the meeting ended. When we were wrapping up, I asked for permission to ask him one more question. He agreed. My question was along the lines of, Mr. Panabaker (this part was unsaid but he knew the relative career position of me versus he, the Chairman vs. me... a mid-level position in a bank branch. I ask, why did you agree to meet with me?
His response, changed my life, my attitude and my perspective. Knowing our relative positions, he said words to the effect of... well I know and respect Dr. C. and his judgment (and given our relative position in our careers at the time) he simply, and honestly, stated, that anyone who had the courage and confidence to ask me to meet, was probably worth meeting. Those words changed my life and I have always been grateful for his graciousness, and perhaps curiosity, in agreeing to meet with me.
Thank you Mr. John Panabaker. I'm sure I'm one of the many whose life was changed in a positive way by you and your kindness and generosity. What a legacy.
Cal Waddell
