Dawn,

I believe I understand correctly that you are Ralph’s daughter.  Please accept and pass along to your Mother, Brothers and Family, my condolences at your loss - a great loss for many of us also.  Ralph was an extraordinary man who made a powerful and positive impact on many, many people throughout his life and career.  I met and worked with him at Mineral Hill Mine in Jardine, Montana back in the 90’s, and have stayed in touch with him over the years.  He was a good friend and colleague, and one of the very best Mine Foreman I have known.  He was a man of remarkable character:  competence, wisdom, vision, honesty, toughness, courage, kindness & good humor, all in one man.  I know many of the men who worked for and with Ralph, and I cannot think of one who wouldn’t tell you how greatly they respected and admired Ralph, and appreciated what they learned from him.  He helped to make us all better miners and better people.  I will miss him terribly, yet am grateful to have known him, and proud to have been his friend.

Please send me your Mother’s new mailing address when time allows.

You and your Family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Sincerely,

John H.

John H.

President & Chief Executive Officer