Goodbye Kathy Kolbe A TRUE PIONEER
Sept 14, 2025 Giant Ball of Dirt From the Desk Of Gordon
Today marks a deeply personal milestone, one that stirs both gratitude and sorrow. As I sit here in a Tim Hortons, tears well up—not just for the moment, but for a year of transformation and the sudden loss of an extraordinary woman who shaped my life in ways I’ll never forget. This year has taught me that courage isn’t the absence of fear—it’s moving forward despite it.
A Heartfelt Goodbye: Honoring a Legend
Tears stream down my face as I reflect on my relationship with Kathy Kolbe. Five months ago, the world lost a pioneer, a woman I was honored to call a friend. She was one of the most inspiring people I’ve ever known, and I only just learned of her passing today. For weeks, I’d been wanting to reach out, to share a chat. Now, that chance is gone, and my heart aches.
She was a trailblazer, one of the first and most successful female entrepreneurs of her time. As the founder of the Kolbe Assessment, she revolutionized how we understand human behavior, empowering millions to unlock their potential. Her work continues to shape lives and businesses worldwide. She graced the cover of Time magazine, a testament to her impact, but to me, she was more than a legend—she was kind, wise, and profoundly human.
I’ll forever cherish our lunches and meetings in Scottsdale. I’m heartbroken that we never took a photo together, but her presence lives on in my memories. She had a gift for asking the right questions, two of which changed my life:
“What do you want? How can I help you achieve your desired result?”
Those words became my compass, guiding me through decisions and dreams. Her trainings were transformative, her presentations captivating, and her sweetness unforgettable. She was a mentor, a friend, and a beacon of possibility.
Moving Forward
Today, as I reflect on a year of growth and mourn the loss of a remarkable woman, I’m reminded to live with intention. To ask myself, What do I want? To help others achieve their dreams. And to never take a single moment—or a single lunch—for granted.
Her legacy lives on in every life she touched, including mine. I’ll carry her questions, her kindness, and her courage with me always. Here’s to transformation, to the people who light our way, and to the strength to keep going.
Connect... Gordon GordonBufton@Proton.me @GordonBufton