Comments, reflections and tributes to Roy
Please feel free to express your personal condolences, memories, tributes or reflections of Roy here to be a part of the verbal “quilt” of tribute.
Please be assured that there will be no violation of privacy of your email address. There will be a slight delay before your reflection will be posted as a precaution against malicious and exploitive content.
October 27th, 2010 at 6:00 pm
I always felt growing up that I had an unfair advantage in life because I had a role model in Dad, so goal setting, persistence and a sense of fair play were cooked in the book. Integrity was the best thing someone could say about me because that was Dad.” Bo
October 28th, 2010 at 11:23 am
Growing up, Granddaddy fit the Grandfather archetype. He imparted wisdom in concise, well-timed adages. He was a pitch-perfect whistler and fountain of old folk colloquialisms with a megawatt smile. But beneath all that, I knew there was a rock-hard corps. I was often reminded of this great strength in his handshake, his jolting play jab, and his very firm, loving grip on my shoulder.
October 30th, 2010 at 6:06 am
Reflecting on the finality of a transcendent personally like dad is a uniquely human dilemma of unquenchable gratitudes, enormous admirations and suffocating regrets. Qualities in him that I resisted in my rebellious youth are now strengths I call upon every day to accomplish the tasks at hand. His was the sound of one thundering velvet hand clapping. All who knew, admired and shared affection for Roy must also tether those feelings to a heartfelt recognition for Linda, his wife of 61 long and loyal years. She too came from a youth which had no time for childhood. She raised her own brothers and sisters while her mother worked in a factory and then had the monumental life long task of trying to temper the forces of nature that were her four “boys”. In the final years when Roy’s weary body was failing and he suffered the pain and indignity of intensive care, it was Linda who stood by his side and fought together for his very life. An ocean of compassion can not possibly fill the void of Roy’s passing in her life. May our gratitude for her countless sacrifices be the gentle hand of contentment she deserves.
October 30th, 2010 at 7:21 am
Being the youngest in a family of such dynamic, individual strengths, gave me a delightful opportunity of learning through observation, of not only my brothers- but espacially my parents. Bo and Bill covered a pretty wide range of options, for me to emulate and my Mom and Dad certainly were there in every way to help, along the way. Of all my mutiitude of memories of growing up, for some reason playing backyard football with my brothers and Dad sticks out because to this day I’m still in awe over how high and far my Dad could punt a football. We would literally stand around and look at each other waiting for that ball to re-enter Earth’s atmosphere. I was espacially fortunate to spend over 20 years working with Dad to help him grow is own little “Rockafeller” family fortune, as he called it, and interact with his friends and business associates. I ‘m very proud to witness the respect and camerdre they all showed him, espacially when he “held court ” at the club. The stories they shared are priceless.
Mom and Dad’s marriage was absolutely the epitome of wedding vows…better or worse/ death do us part…. Dad’s care for Mom through all her cancer bouts, was only exceeded by Mom’s care for Dad during these last few years of deterriorating health and her relentless 24/7 care and support of being there, and unconditional love for her man. I’ve got great memories of my Dad and thank him for the guidence and opportunities he gave me and love him for the man he was., and Mom I love you too, for proving once again that you are indeed the strongest of us all.I witnessed the unbelievable effort you put into taking care of Dad, proving not only that you were his beloved wife of 61 years- but also his best friend. It certainly made this batchelor feel very lonely and envious of such an unconditional, devoted effort and love of a wife to make her husband as comfortable as possible for the inevitable transition. Thank you very much Mom for all you did for Dad. I love you.
Dad- I’m sure by now you’ve got blueprints drawn on something, and a hole started for the foundation….Have fun where ever ya are- ….and if ya get a chance, show em how you can punt that friggin’ football…..Love ya Dad – already miss ya.
BK3
October 30th, 2010 at 9:19 pm
Granddaddy – You always said to me when we talked on the phone “when are you gonna move out here??” Well, we were lucky enough to make that move and spend a few precious months with you. My favorite conversation – You – I’m cold, I need the blanket. Me – Granddaddy, it’s 110 degress outside!! You – Well, I’m fragile.
I love you and make a promise to watch over your other half with your passing. Were gonna go get our nails done and have girly lunches together!!
We miss you – Elizabeth, Gavin and Gizmo (Fido)
October 31st, 2010 at 6:13 pm
after all been say,
what we have to say ,About a humanbeingn an his family,that open the doors of there.home to me and my family is the biggest trust in our life from some very special person which I.always so as a father figure,my daughters especially amy his little partner to play cards she will always miss that great person he always were,
THANK YOU, TO U AND MISS, LINDA KITE FOR ALL UR KINDNESS TO ALL OF US
SERGIO.CONNIE,AMY,AND ALICE OLVERA,,,,,,
MR,KITE U ALWAYS BE IN OUR HEARTS AND THOUGHTS……….
October 31st, 2010 at 7:13 pm
I never got a chance to meet this great man-I have known Bob for over 2o years!
I lost my own Father this last year!
I was reading all the above about Mr Kite and he reminded me so much of my own Dad–
I know he is making changes already to this great place we call Earth!
A man’s legacy sometimes is measured by his family!
Bob your Dad must of been one Hell-of a man!
Everytime I mention your name to someone they light up and say Kite He’s the real deal-I know your love for life and it was the direction this great man gave to all of you!
Life really is short- I thanks God for what I have-not what I had!
The Kite family had been so blessed to have such a great mentor and a man that touched so many lives!
His love for his wife of 61 years are you kidding me-A Blessing–
How does one person manage to be such an awesome figure–
His love will always be there- Bob please tell your Mom that all is well–
His spirit will always be around- his love for all of you will never stop and to continue your lives as you Pop would of wanted it-with love & laughter and to continue this great legacy!
I ask God to bless all of you and never stop loving him–
Remember your only a man when a man is needed
Anybody can be a Father-it’s being a Dad that really counts!
Anybody can buy a house it’s making it a Home that will keep it together!
I love all of you and Bob your Dad must of been a graet inspiration in your life because You are one of the good guys!
PS– Mr Kite RIP and a job well done for your greatest build was the time you took to build such a great family legacy!
John R Shultz
October 31st, 2010 at 11:40 pm
my name is amy i will always rember the fun times i had with mr. kite he taught me alot of things i thought i would never learn he taught me to play card games and how wto always keep your head held high no matter what ill always rember mr.kite no matter where he or i are ill always know he will be looking down on all of his loved ones he is an extrodinary man who lived his life to the fullest so i will no matter what keep mr.kite in my hearts and thoughts no matter where and what age i am illl always keep mr.kites memory alive in my everyday life. IN LOVING MEMORY OF ROY A. KITE A.K.A. ” MY GIN BUDDY”
November 1st, 2010 at 3:11 am
I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Kite along with his son, Bill, a few years ago in AZ before he fell ill. Having know Bill for 30 years, I was curious to meet his father and see just how far the proverbial “apple” had fallen from the “tree.” I had always admired Bill’s strong dedication and resolve to making the world a better place. Talking with his father about life in general over a few beers, one could easily see that Roy’s imprint on his son was significant. Commitment, hard work, and trust, were his hallmarks, as they are Bill’s. And, an easy going smile on Roy’s face made me realize that I liked this gentleman as much as I did his son. Rest in peace, Roy. You left a foot print on this earth that is deep. May your family continue the honorable journey.
November 1st, 2010 at 9:19 pm
Phoenix lost a great man when Roy Kite passed from this earth…
My father Lynn Hester was very fond of Roy and considered Roy a great friend.
Early in my insurance career with my father, I learned that whatever Roy told you was his bond… Roy was a stand up guy.
His kind smile and firm handshake were his way of greeting me. He had a great laugh… His savy business sense warned me of trouble ahead a few times, and looking back, I wish I had heeded his sage advice…
I hope he and my father are sitting at the round bar of the Arizona Club in heaven… having a couple of drinks, talking about all of the fun things they did and great times they had in this life…
Gods speed Roy Kite, you will be missed… My condolences to the entire Kite family … Mark Hester
November 2nd, 2010 at 12:11 am
When I think of Roy, I remember brief visits he made to Atlanta when I was growing up. The phone would ring late in the day. Katie or Johnnie would answer the phone and you could immediately hear the upbeat in their voice. Well hi Roy, how ya doing? Though I couldn’t hear his response, they always told me Roy had the same question every time – Can I come put my feet under your table? As soon as the phone was back on the hook, Katie and Jonnie would spring in to action cooking up something good for Roy. When he arrived they always welcomed him with his favorite adult beverage – or two – and then he proceeded to tell us of his latest business adventures – sometimes complete with blue prints and drawings. I was always in awe watching him and listening to his stories. Then Katie and Johnnie would serve him up a good southern dinner. I can tell you that Roy may have moved out west, but he never lost his love of a good southern meal.
Most amazing and memorable for me was the twinkle in Roy’s eye. Like none I’ve ever seen. Maybe it was the shape of his face or his big smile, but somehow I think that twinkle came from something deep inside. God bless you Roy and thanks for sharing that twinkle with me.
November 2nd, 2010 at 3:53 am
In my heart have fond memories of times growing up, and when we drove from California to visit Uncle Roy, Aunt Linda and Bo, Bill and Bob. Then the times when Uncle Roy would be in Atlanta on business when we were there, and we would go to Mrs. Kites house for dinner up Trickum Road. I will hold fondest the memory of the dinner in Atlanta with Bo and Walter and myself and when he let us take the rental car to Granny’s house. Thanks for the memories Uncle Roy.
I know you will be missed by many. Especially, by Aunt Linda her soul mate and life partner of 61 years. May God hold on to the hand that he released.
Thank you for being someone in my life and times. With love and God blessings always. Cynthia Lindsey
November 2nd, 2010 at 2:26 pm
I don’t remember when I first met Roy A. Kite Jr., but I was young and in elementary school. I say Roy A. Kite Jr. but he was never anything but Mr. Kite to me. You never thought about calling him anything else. He was Mr. Kite then and he was Mr. Kite until now and will remain Mr. Kite into the future. Not because he was formal or demanding or anything like that. Because he just was Mr. Kite, that’s it.
Again, I don’t remember when I first met Mr. Kite but I am sure the first meeting took place because his son Bill and I were in some trouble and needed to be talked to. That was usually the modus operandi with Bill and myself. So that was Mr. Kite’s first impression of me, trouble, and to put it in nicer terms, mischief. There was a time when Bill and Jim Hill and I were stealing beer from a neighbor’s refrigerator on a pretty constant basis. The neighbors were the Lindner’s and they had a frig in either the carport or a storage room and that was the kind of information that Bill, Jim and I should never have found out about because we were relentless in our pursuit of …….well I am not really sure what we thought we were pursuing but…..we went after it with a sort of gusto like we knew what we were doing. Well, we were all of 7th or 8th grade and in all our wisdom somehow we got caught. I don’t remember the circumstances but I don’t think we got caught red-handed, like with the beer in our frozen hands (it was usually in the dead of winter when we were stealing ice cold beer) but, I think it was so well known that we were the punks stealing the stuff, that a meeting was called for the parents of the culprits to bring their children and have a ho down. Among others there was Mr. Hill, my father and Mr. Kite. We all confessed and apologized like the miniature criminals we were.
Mr. Kite’s presence had a solid silence that was unmistakable even to an eighth grade kid. He did not say much. Never did. Didn’t have to. His presence was all that was needed to make a statement that rang loud and clear.
But that presence was never one of anger. His presence was not one you felt like going against. Not because he was mean. He wasn’t that way. He had an uncommon strength in his being that was there without words or action. You just respected him cause that was what you did. There was no choice.
A few years later Kenny Johnson and myself got the big idea we wanted to go to work one summer in construction. Of course, neither one of us knew anything about work in general, much less big time construction. Well, we made our way up to a meeting with Mr. Kite in the Guarantee Bank Building. Somehow we got an appointment with Mr. Kite. We went into his spacious office up on some magnificent floor of a high rise building and sat down and started talking to Mr. Kite about wanting to go to work. We were clueless. We had no idea. We were a joke. It was laughable. But there was Mr. Kite, taking time out of his day, and carefully telling us the requirements and the things that needed to be done, like maybe joining a union, before we could even get started. I can only imagine what must have been going through his mind. All the while he gave you the time and…..I was going to say respect, but we didn’t deserve any respect….but he gave us his time and concern. There was no baloney there. He was a genuine man.
We didn’t get hired. We knew when we left Mr. Kites office it was a little too much for us. Damn. Live and learn.
Over the years my contact with Mr. Kite was more through two of his sons, first Bill, then Bob, and that was how I kept a running knowledge of his life. As I write this I have to wonder what was in Mr. and Mrs. Kite that resulted in Bo, Bill and Bob. All different. All powerful figures in their own right. Mr. Kite lived, and his living was an example and reference point of all the boy’s development, that expresses itself in the diverse individuality of each one of them. A solid foundation to say the least. Mrs. Kite was right there with her husband every step of the way.
Mr. Kite’s life has had a profound effect on my life in a very tangible way, first through the relationships with his sons, which has been a lifetime journey and continues on but, also through the company he helped build which employed me and paid me and gave me a start that catapulted me in directions I may never have gone down without it. A man who, I mostly knew through his sons, whose work of his hands and mind, whose influence, played directly in the formation and experience of my life. To this very day. I benefited because of his life.
Goodbye and Thanks Mr. Kite.
Bruce Brown
November 2nd, 2010 at 4:41 pm
We want to extend our deepest sympathies to Mr. Robert Henry Kite, Mrs. Linda Roberts Kite and other members of the Kite family. We were sad to hear about Mr. Roy Ambrose Kite Jr., he was a wonderful man and a real inspiration for his service to our country both as WWII pilot and a respectable businessman.
We are very honored to have Mr. Robert H. Kite as a member of our Board of Directors.
ANTs Software.
November 2nd, 2010 at 6:36 pm
I came to know Roy through his son, Bob, who has been a close friend for years. As many others have said before me, he was a true Southern gentleman. But he was a lot more than that too. Listening to Roy reflect on life was an absolute joy for me. He had the ability to cut through the fog and get to the meat of the issue quickly. He always talked common sense without wasting the verbiage that so many of us seem to employ. Listening to his exploits during World War II were some of the most entertaining conversations I ever had. He was a son of the South, but more importantly, he was a son of America. I’m glad to have known him and will remember him always in my prayers.
November 2nd, 2010 at 7:26 pm
It was my great pleasure to have known Mr. Kite. He was a fine man and a gentleman.
And characteristic of the men of that “greatest generation” I learned only now in this obituary that Mr. Kite was a veteran and flew bombers in WWII. My admiration grows.
You only needed to meet Mr. Kite once to realize how nice he was; always optimistic and cheerful. Always smiling — an infectious grin– it was a pleasure to be in his company.
You can also learn a lot about a person by the children they raised.
I am very close friends with one of his sons, Bob, and have had the pleasure of meeting Bo. They are unmistakably the sons of Mr. Kite.
Accomplished, charismatic, smart, worldly. Mr. Kite leaves behind a tremendous legacy.
All who knew him and were close to him will miss him.
Mr. Kite, thank you for your honorable and valorous service to our Country and may God Bless you.
And my prayers and thoughts at this time are with Mrs. Kite and her family. Peace, Larry Pike
~ Lawrence Pike, Paradise Valley, Arizona
November 2nd, 2010 at 11:29 pm
Roy Kite mixed all elements of his life together. His unique combination of personal, business and daily living resulted in a continuous recipe for success. To me he was the most charming, unassuming, lovable and polite southern gent that I have ever met. He was a one of kind. He is irreplaceable.
Roy was a very kind man and the most ethical person that I have had the pleasure of meeting. He was loyal to a fault and always wore a smile on his face. I hold him in the highest regard and think the world of him.
His passing is a great loss to his family and to those who knew him. I’ll miss old Roy Kite and smile when I think of his memory. That guy sure lived in the zone. He enjoyed a full and long life. He had a loving caring wife for over six decades. He has successful and independent children. What else can a person expect from this short experience we call life?
Rest up Roy Kite and keep a cold one on ice for me.
November 3rd, 2010 at 1:16 am
I was saddened to learn of Mr. Kite’s passing. He was truly a special man. I first met him through his son, Bob, and his beautiful bride, Linda, who were my “classmates” in a mid-90′s FBI Citizens Academy session. I always looked forward to seeing Roy, Linda and Bob at the various events held each year by the FBICA. Roy always greeted you with a big smile, a “southern gentleman’s” warmth, and–yes, that “twinkle” in his eye! My thoughts and prayers are with his family during these difficult days. May the memories of this special man you hold dear bring you comfort and peace.
Connie Tyler, Phoenix, AZ
November 3rd, 2010 at 8:18 am
Dear respected Bill Lay,
I am extremely sorry to learn about the demise of your dear father. Please accept our condolence. We pray for eternal peace to the departed soul. I highly appreciate your noble view of setting up memorial website in collaboration with your brothers for a project in Ladakh. It is indeed a great idea to have a memorial medical clinic project to remember your dear father. Of course we will do everything possible to help you to realize this wonderful goal for other people in need of medical care in Ladakh.
Sincerely yours,
Eshey Tundup
Principal
Lamdon School-Leh, Ladakh
November 3rd, 2010 at 2:10 pm
To the dear Kite family,
I have such fond memories of
- playing Monopoly with the family in Flagstaff, visiting with all of you, telling stories about Bob.
- watching your dad roll his eyes at all of our shenanigans, always respecting your mom, yet somehow getting a kick out of whatever the kids were doing.
- seeing the relationships, fun, and respect that mixed so uniquely in the Kite family
- wishing, always, to have had more time.
All the best,
Love,
Norma Jane
November 3rd, 2010 at 6:21 pm
I have not met Mr Roy Kite personally, but I know of him through Bill .
I am blessed to have Bill in my life as a brother, mentor ,close friend and business partner since the last 30 years and going strong.
I remember Bill sharing how he admired his Dad’s solidarity,resilience , commitment to family and working hard for honest living to bring up his sons.
Bill mirrors these very qualities – honesty, integrity,sincerity, loyalty to his global family -all the people he associates with in business and personal life.
Bill is a visionary – so it’s not surprising that a foundation is set up for his father to continue to support the humanitarian medical projects that he started in the Ladakh himalayas. The sages of the himalayas would tell you this is the way to honor the departed soul – the way to bring peace to his soul. I feel so proud of the way the family has channeled their love and energies for their Dad.
Love, Manjeet
November 4th, 2010 at 8:14 pm
I didn’t know Uncle Roy as the business visionary, I knew him as the sweet man that lite up a room with his smile. One of the most proud and memorable moments in my life was when I was lucky enough to have him give me away at my Wedding. He made me feel like a princess walking down the aisle on his arm. When he and Aunt Linda would come to Atlanta, it was like a celebrity was coming to visit. The mere thought of his visit made everyone so excited. Which speaks to who he was. He made you feel so special. His generosity touched us and will never be forgotten. While we are so sad at his passing, we were blessed to have him for as long as we did. To Uncle Roy, as Bob Hope would say “Thanks for the Memories” To Aunt Linda, Bo, Bill and Bob, please know our hearts and prayers are with you.
November 4th, 2010 at 11:10 pm
I was so fortunate to have had the opportunity to spend time occasionally with Roy and Linda. Just so grateful to have known such a committed and outstanding couple and to have had the chance to know Roy altho the times were brief. My sympathy to the entire family and the pictures on the internet were just so wonderful. Lee
November 5th, 2010 at 12:40 am
Roy was one of the finest individuals I have had the opportunity to work with during my lifetime. His demeanor, ingenuity, integrity and attention to detail coupled with practical and quality laden expectations drew the best out of everyone involved. Susequent to his arrival in the early 1960s, I was blessed to have had the opportunity to work with him on his first Phoenix project and thereafter on numerous other major construction projects, on community affairs, in our company’s board room and in other areas of mutual interest; a time span of over 40 years. I am pleased and thankful that Roy was my friend. Best wishes to Linda and the rest of the Kite Family. Jim Warne
November 5th, 2010 at 5:22 am
To all members of the Roy Kite Jr. Family:
I had the distinct pleasure to know and meet with Mr. Kite on several occasions. I was privileged to converse and listen to his sage wisdom, coupled with the warmth and sincerity of his smile. I have been in the presence of many Great men which included President Ronal Reagan, Franklin D. Murphy, Chairman of the Board of the Los Angeles Times, J.C.C Hall, Founder of Hallmark Cards, Senator Hubert Humphrey, etc. and I put Roy Kite in the same esteem as these great men that have given so much to humanity and asked for nothing in return. Mr. Kite was the ultimate Southern Gentlemen, and when he spoke you listened carefully and were always rewarded with his dignity and charismatic smile.
I was blessed to know Mr. Kite and I will remember always carry his Spirit in my Heart.
To the Kite family, my prayers are with you during this time of loss, but God has now another Angel in His Kingdom, and I know when you look upward , you will be blessed with him smiling over you.
With sincere love and gratitude to the Kite family.
Gene Nalbandian
November 5th, 2010 at 4:21 pm
I never did get to meet Mr. Kite. I heard a lot about him and Mrs. Kite from Bob. Bob always spoke of them with respect and love. I was impresed at Bob’s loving stores about his dad. He always said that he was priviledged to have a father who was so determined and fair. Qualities we inherit are not by chance, they are acquired in most part by our upbringing and environment. Your dad passed these qualities onto you Bob and for this he has gained my respect.
November 5th, 2010 at 6:19 pm
Roy was what us “Okies” call “A Prince Of A Guy”. During the Fiesta Bowl one year, I took my youngest son, Rory, and my oldest grandson, James. We stayed with Roy and Linda. Both of the boys were so impressed with the hospitality shown to them.
You could always tell from being around Roy and Linda that hospitality was their name and truly enjoyed doing it. I always referred to Linda as a “Southern Belle”. Even though she had lived in Phoenix for many years, Roy and Linda always retained there “Southern Roots”.
Everyone who knew Roy will miss him deeply. He was of the “old school” which I personally admire to this day myself. I personally did not have the privilege to walk side by side with him in business, but if I had, his word would have been good as gold for me.
Being around Bob and Bo has always been a pleasure both in business and fun. I admire them both and have had sleepless nights listening to their stories about their dad and all the fun times they had growing up. I’m sitting here remembering one visit that they came to the Senior Championship Golf Tournament – both stretched out on our sofas telling stories and Donna and I laughing till our sides hurt. And always at the end of each, telling us the consequences they endured from their dad. As they said, he was not much on “words” – his presence was enough.
Roy and Linda worked hard to raise their family and always extended a hand to anyone who needed help, even if it was just a kind word of encouragement. I personally do not think we can ask more of a couple than always having a “open heart”.
It is so appropriate for me to say, “That twinkle in his eye” always, and that smile that showed you that he was enjoying your company. I admired our visits with them both. Linda, you have been so strong for your man and he was always so content in your presence.
May we all learn the true meaning of “marriage” by just observing Roy and Linda’s 60+ years of dedication to each other.
“Good Memory Rules”
Forget each kindness that you do as soon as you have done it
Forget the praise that falls to you the moment you have won it
Forget the slander that you hear before you can repeat it
Forget each slight, each spite, each sneer, wherever you may meet it.
Remember every kindness done to you whatever its measure
Remember praise by others won and pass it on with pleasure
Remember every promise made and keep it to the letter
Remember those who lend you aid and be a grateful debtor.
Remember all the happiness that comes your way in living
Forget each worry and distress, be hopeful and forgiving
Remember good, remember truth, remember Heaven’s above you
And you will find through youth and age that many hearts will love you.
Many hearts will remember, Mr. Roy A. Kite, Jr…..as you rest in peace.
November 6th, 2010 at 9:05 pm
Almost 40 years ago I met Roy Kite, Jr. He was a client of my father. Roy took an immediate interest in me. This was the type of man Roy was. He gave me the benefit of his wisdom and his time. Roy was a good listener, a wise man and a caring friend. My life was blessed because of Roy Kite, Jr.
Jim Van Houten
November 9th, 2010 at 6:17 am
I recall the first time I met Mr. Kite was at a mexican restaurant on Greenville Ave in Dallas when I was a student at SMU. Mr and Mrs Kite were visiting and Bob asked me to come along. Bob had talked so much about his dad I felt I already knew him. He was just as I pictured, big and strong and to the point. I was also impressed with Mrs Kite and how she complimented Mr Kite’s personality. He seemed so relaxed to let her lead the converstaion and he just spoke up from time to time, always with a smile. I also recall that they were staying at a Holiday Inn on Central. Not a fancy hotel which they could have afforded. Much in keeping with the image Bob had painted.
After graduating Bob “hood winked” me in to a “vacation” trip to drive from Dallas to sunny San Diego to stay in the new motel Mr. Kite and his friend Bud had purchaed and renovated. Mrs Kite was also there. To my surprise when we arrived Mr. Kite was standing in the parking lot and said “well finally you’re here… let’s get going, we’ve got all these beds and tv’s and dressers to get up to the rooms” Bob said to me, ” Oh I forgot to mention we’re gonna help my dad out with a little moviing.” We worked our tails off for two days, but Mr. Kite was side by side with us all the way and I felt I got to know him and it was excitng for me. He was so thorough. Attending to every detail including re-doing some of the screws we put in too fast on the bed headboards. Wanting them to be screwed in more straight. Bud made a comment when Bob expressed some frustration. He said “you know Bob as a banker, I have watched many successful men like your dad and their attention to detail is a common trait.”
Lastly on that same trip I recall Mr. Kite standing in the front office talking to Bob and me and Mrs Kite walked past him and gave him a firm pat on his behind as she passed by. He didn’t look at her but he got this proud, kind of smitten look on his face and I could tell he was totally in love with her. Still chokes me up to think about it.
I saw Mr. and Mrs Kite many times after that weekend and always thought of that moment.
Bob, thanks for making me feel so welcomed in your family and for the influnece your dad has had on my life. I am very grateful to have known him. He was a giant among men!
Rob.
November 10th, 2010 at 9:33 pm
I’ve known the Kite family since Bob and I were in 2nd grade together. I learned early on to always ask if Bill was home before agreeing to venture into the Kite residence. However, though he traveled a lot, I also remember the times I was there when Roy was home. “Mr. Kite” was always this larger than life, gregarious figure whose presence preceded him into any room. The few memories I have of Roy from way back then are good ones. I always felt safe around him.
We did meet up in Bangkok several years ago when Bob, Bo and his son, and I were on our way to visit Bill in Ladakh. (A fantastic trip that I won’t get into here.) I do remember Roy inviting us into his hotel room for a drink. Always the gentleman, he loved being around Bob. He always beamed when Bob walked into the room.
So those are my few hard memories of Roy. However, I heard a story about Roy from a rather reliable source that I would like to share here. It doesn’t matter to me if it’s true or not. What matters is that it defines perfectly to me the Roy who I knew and admired – Roy the gentleman.
So, as this story goes, Roy was holding down the home front at their home in Finistère while Linda was out running errands. It was the middle of the afternoon and there was a knock on the door. Upon opening the door Roy saw this great big tall black man (turns out he was a professional basketball player for the Phoenix Suns) and this middle aged woman standing there. They said their hellos and told Roy they would like to see the house. And Roy said, “By all means. You just come right on in and I’ll show you around.”
Once inside the home Roy offered them some ice tea which they gladly accepted (it was the middle of August). They all sat in the living room and the lady asked Roy how long he and Linda had been living in the house and Roy happily answered all of her small talk questions. Then she asked to see the home and Roy led them through the entire house room by room pointing out the workmanship and the amenities that he and Linda particularly enjoyed.
Well, after the home tour, which included the entire back yard and Roy’s posh office in the guest house behind the pool, they proceeded back into the living room and all sat down again. Roy asked if they would like any more ice tea and the two of them politely declined.
And then the lady stated that they would like to get down to business, to which Roy responded, “Well that sounds good. What business would you like to talk about?” And the lady replied, “First of all we’d like to know if there is any room in the price?”
“The price? The price of what?” Roy responded in his jolly manner. “The price of this home.” the lady answered. Roy smiled and said “This home? Why my goodness, this home’s not for sale.” The lady (real estate agent) nervously shuffled through her papers and said, “This is 6201 E. Huntress isn’t it?” To which Roy replied. “No Mam, this is 6200 E. Huntress. The house you want is across the street. I’ll be happy to walk you over there if you’d like.”
Embarrassed and stammering, the real estate agent led her client to the front door. Turning around to apologize, Roy cut her off saying, “Well I certainly enjoyed our little visit. You two come back and see me anytime.” Waving good-bye he gently closed the door.
Like a deer in the headlights the agent led her amused client across the street to the home that was for sale.
Now I can’t swear to you that this story is true. What I can swear to you is that the Roy Kite I knew would handle this situation in exactly this way. And that speaks volumes to me of a man who left this planet a better place than he found it.
Gil Gillenwater
November 11th, 2010 at 12:11 am
Roy was one of a kind and an embodiment of the values and leadership of his generation. He was a true gentleman with a ready smile and a firm handshake. I am very honored to have known him personally and assisted him professionally. I met Roy about 20 years ago and was immediately impressed by his love of his family and his business savvy.
Every time I met with Roy I would learn something new about his full, adventurous, and remarkable life. He had many great stories to share and I never tired hearing them. One of his greatest stories was his love story with Linda, his wife of 61 years. Their love for each other was evident every time I saw them together.
Over time, I have met and worked with Roy’s sons, Bo, Bob and Bill, and luckily the fruit does not fall far from the family tree. Roy was extremely proud of his sons who have all been successful in their own endeavors.
In short, Roy was a great man and will be missed by all who knew him. I am very thankful for having known Roy and I am looking forward to seeing Linda, Roy’s sons, and his grandchildren carry on a great family tradition.
November 11th, 2010 at 9:14 pm
In Tribute to Roy Ambrose Kite, Jr.
Although I never had the honor or the pleasure of meeting Roy Kite, I am certain that I know him through his many legacies and I am certain that his life has touched mine. He leaves our world a better place, not only for those that knew him, but also for me, for my family, and for those important to me, and for all mankind. For this I am grateful.
Tribute is due to him for his service and sacrifice as part of history’s Greatest Generation. Decade after decade, we owe a debt of honor and must never forget the commitment of the generation that preserved for us the future we know today.
The young pilot in military sepia we see peering at us from across time shows an inspiring resolve, but maybe a hint of uncertainty about his future as well. The youth in the picture causes me to reflect on what must have been his reality at that time. What must have been his experience in commanding a Flying Fortress, being responsible for his crew, and knowing the heavy burden shouldered by American flight crews in that terrible war? And, having flown through and returned from a place that defies description, we see that he honored the memory of his fallen comrades, again as part of that great generation, by building a new world and fueling a new prosperity. For this we thank him.
I know Roy A. Kite, Jr. by knowing his son Bob. Undoubtedly his family is truly his greatest legacy. Everything about Roy Kite’s life communicates the Honor that was clearly so central to him. I have been fortunate to have known Bob for many years. I see that same honor in my colleague Bob, demonstrated in his words, his actions and his being – over and over again. I believe without a doubt that it came from Roy’s example, from his guidance, and from the home and family created by Roy and Linda.
We give tribute to Roy Ambrose Kite, Jr. and his greatest legacy, his family that continues on by his example and in his place.
November 20th, 2010 at 5:53 pm
I met Mr. Kite through his son Bob who I have known for years. I only met him on two occasions but those meetings remain very clear and bright in my mind.
The year I was born, Mr. Kite was leading bombing raids in Europe. He spoke of these missions with understatement and humility as true heroes always do. After the war he came home, built a successful business and raised a fine family. This sounds so routine but he led a life that could fill a book and it would be more interesting than many of the biographies of current celebrities. He was very much a gentleman and you felt like there was not a thing he could not accomplish. We need more like him.
May he rest in peace.
December 15th, 2010 at 7:02 am
Bill,
I never got to meet your father, but if he is anything close to as dedicated and driven as you are to make this world a better place for all to live then he must be one heck-of-a-guy. The words that I have read above are some amazing comments about your father. It sounds like the world has lost a hero. My heart goes out to you and your family.
All the best,
Ted
April 29th, 2011 at 4:21 am
Bob,
Hi. I was so sorry to hear about the death of your father. He was larger than life, at least that is what we all thought in 8th grade. Actually, your whole family was bigger than life, and more fun. I actually remember the football ability. Your mom and dad were always very kind to me, and I have always appreciated your humor. I hope you are well, and hope to see you someday when you settle down. You could, you know.
Jan
p.s. I am still mad that you were prettier in the yearbook picture than I was.