Eli Goldratt died on Saturday, 11 June 2011, after a short battle with cancer.
In my mind, I will always remember his gruff and challenging approach to any question, combined with what seemed a genuine curiosity to learn and take in new ideas. I had a few personal contacts with him, but most of my experience was either as an audience member or through his writings and videos. His wish that Theory of Constraints become the way business operates will now be out in the world to be taken up by
This is the text of the note that appeared in my mailbox and on a number of mailing lists connected to TOC to announce his passing. The video is worthwhile for people familiar with his style (still images with quotes).
Sixty-four years ago a giant was born.
Dr. Eliyahu M. Goldratt spent his entire adult life fighting to show that it is possible to make this world a better place. We must have the honesty to see reality as it is, we must have the courage to challenge assumptions, and above all, we must use the gift of thinking. Having applied these principles to various management fields, he created the Theory of Constraints. His concepts and teachings have expanded beyond management and are being used in healthcare, education, counseling, government, agriculture and personal growth - to name a few fields using TOC. His legacy is invaluable.
On June 11th, 2011 at noon, Eli Goldratt passed away at his home in Israel in company of his family and close friends.
The strength and passion of Eli allowed him to spend his last days sharing and delivering his latest insights and breakthroughs to a group of people who have committed to transfer this knowledge to the TOC Community during the upcoming Theory of Constraints International Certification Organization Conference in New York.
It was Eli's last wish to take TOC to the next level - truly standing on the shoulders of the Giant he is.
"I smile and start to count on my fingers: One, people are good. Two, every conflict can be removed. Three, every situation, no matter how complex it initially looks, is exceedingly simple. Four, every situation can be substantially improved; even the sky is not the limit. Five, every person can reach a full life. Six, there is always a win-win solution. Shall I continue to count?"
Dr. Eliyahu M. Goldratt
1947- 2011http://www.toc.tv/TV/share.js.php?vid=470&lang=en
Please continue to share your thoughts, stories and comments for the TOC community and the Goldratt family: www.eligoldratt.com/messages
Along with the Eli Goldratt website, there are comments posted to the video, and a Facebook page.