At 82 years old, Robert Kern-- the founder of Generac, a Wisconsin generator manufacturer, sold his company so that he and wife Pat could work full-time in their philanthropic foundation. The company was started in 1954.

The extraordinary part is that Mr. Kern states, "If I had retired when I was supposed to I'd have missed the best parts." He was speaking of his company's amazing growth in the past 25 years.

Unlike the captains of industry who take big salaries and bonuses while laying off workers, Mr. & Mrs. Kern shared the proceeds of the companies sales with their many employees-- some receiving 5 figure checks.

This is a story of ingenuity, perseverance, and friendship.