This is an older picture. It was taken back in 2014. It is a picture I treasure because it is with a guy that I have been honored to have as an important part of my life. This was when my 25th year at Bahrns Equipment was celebrated. Boy, it doesn't seem like I have been here almost 33 years now. You know what they say when you love what you do you don't work a day in your life. I do love my job, and the main reason is because of the guy in this picture. We lost Stan September 22 of last year and we still feel the void. This guy was like a father figure or a favorite uncle. He had wisdom that still amazes me, he could build anything and was kind, honest and hard working. He started the company many years ago and set the atmosphere of customer service and taking pride in your work as well as being fair.
Back in 2013 Stan had been diagnosed with liver disease and his health was deteriorating. He still showed up for work pretty much every day. He was weak, but his spirit didn't waiver at all. He was here to support everyone, and he was still witty and caring. My family had planned a surprise party for my 50th birthday. Stan was so weak and still needing a new liver. I was shocked about the party, but was especially shocked to see my Dad there and then I saw Stan and his wife Alyene there as well. I couldn't believe he took the time to come to the party. When it came time to blow out the candles Stan asked what I wished for. I told him my wish.... it was for him to get a liver. I was so happy to hear the next morning that he was in surgery because they had gotten a call in the middle of the night that a liver had been located for him.
Stan built a business and he and Alyene raised three awesome kids and he prepared them to carry on the business that he built with blood, sweat and tears. I am proud to work for the Bahrns Family, and as we carry on, I won't lie, I still look into his office wishing he was sitting at the desk. Not because the company has changed, it is still customer oriented and family owned, but because I miss his wit, his wisdom and him in general. Because of all the employees that knew and loved him and because his family, the business will carry on and even grow, but life will never be the same without the Legend. Those whose lives he touched are better because of him and a part of him lives on in each of us. Continue to fly high Stan, I believe every day is a good flying day in Heaven and with God as your Co-Pilot the view has to be amazing.
While we are busy and go through life, I recommend you search for and find a "Stan" in your life, even better, be a "Stan" to others. Be that person that at the end of your life people will remember you with a smile, with great memories and feeling that their life is better because you were a part of it. I try to live this, I know I am not anywhere near Stan Bahrns at it but I do try to be better today than I was yesterday.
