1/I first met Gerry Lenfest in 2000, shortly after I sold my company to eBay. I was 29 years old and I thought I was a big shot. When I first shook Gerry's hand he said: "Your hands are way too soft. You need to do some hard work - we should get you on some poles stringing wire."
2/After buying the @PhillyInquirer he asked me to join the board. I said no. Gerry wouldn't take no for an answer. He educated me on the important role that local watchdog journalism plays in a city -- and in a democracy. Of course, I joined the board - and became it's chairman.
3/Gerry and his wife Marguerite decided to give away their fortune during their lifetime - years before the "giving pledge" was a thing. They've given away over $1.3 BILLION in the last 20 years -- transforming countless lives and the city of Philadelphia.
4/I've never met anyone else like Gerry. He was willing to take risks and think creatively. He always had a devilish sparkle in his eye. He was stubborn when stubbornness was needed. He was an amazing role model for me and countless others.
5/His kindness and generosity will not be forgotten. While Gerry's hands might have been calloused from hard work, he was the most soft hearted man I've ever met. philly.com/philly/obituar…
