Congratulations Gene Platt!

Genuine. Amazing. Big Time. Moral Compass. Mentor.

These are just a few of the descriptions of Attorney Gene Platt, who retires (again!) this time from Reinisch Wilson Weier PC on June 1, 2018.

Gene joined the firm in June 2015, in part because his wife said he couldn’t retire yet. Attorneys and staff embraced Gene’s laid back demeanor, but have enjoyed his wealth of experience in Oregon workers’ compensation.

“In June 2015, Gene came to spend his last year of practicing law before retirement with us,” said Firm President Christy Doornink. “I am very grateful that his one year timeframe turned into three. It has been an absolute pleasure to have Gene as a part of our Reinisch Wilson Weier family. He has provided much wisdom to our team and his pleasant and humble demeanor will certainly be missed. We wish Gene all the best in his retirement!”

“I first met Gene in the late-1990s,” said Oregon Shareholder Amy Osenar. “I was a baby lawyer trying one of my first cases in small town Oregon (I remember Pendleton, Gene remembers Ontario – he has killed less brain cells in his life and is probably correct). Gene was at the hearings division waiting to try his case, which was set right after mine. He introduced himself and then, to my great surprise, offered to fly me back to Portland in his firm’s airplane. Wow! I thought, this guy is big time!”

“I could not accept his offer that day, but I was right,” she said. “Gene is big time. A big time lawyer, a big time mentor, a big time gentleman, a big time friend, husband, dad, and grandpa. I sure will miss his influence of generosity and kindness. Congratulations, Gene!”

“You were meant to retire here and we are all the better for knowing you,” said Oregon Shareholder Kelly Niemeyer.

“I was excited, honored and touched that Gene decided to spend that last year because of the level of integrity he brought with him,” said Oregon Shareholder Matthew Fisher. “With this many people [in the firm], there is tremendous value to having a good moral compass to help point us in the right the direction. For the last three years I have always seen Gene as a critical part of that moral compass, and I will be forever grateful for the example.”

“Gene is genuine. He enthusiastically shares stories and experiences, and truly wants each one of us to succeed,” said Oregon Attorney Mary Briedé.

“Gene is an amazing advocate, teacher and friend,” Said Oregon Shareholder Vincci Lam. “His knowledge of the law, quick-witted advocacy and collegiality with attorneys on both sides of the aisle are ideals we can all aspire towards. I’m lucky to have worked alongside him and will miss him dearly!”

“Gene has been an amazing friend to me,” said Mary Jane Bankhead, a claims examiner for Sedgwick Claims Management Services, Inc. “He is a person you can tell anything to without judgment, so kind and caring. He would give the shirt off his back to a person in need. I will miss our lunches together, but wishing you all the best in retirement.”

Personal brand is what people say about you when you leave the room, says Jeff Bezos. Everyone would gladly say these accolades out loud to Gene (and some did!) before he leaves a room. Congratulations, Gene!