Back in 1987, Dan found himself looking for a new job, as his current place of employment was shutting down. However, he was highly sought after and within two days he had six job offers to choose from. Luckily for us, he took a Parts Apprentice role with the John Deere dealership in Falher, Dave Ross Equipment.
Now, 35 years later Dan is still going to work at the same location, and although it has seen some name and ownership changes the dealership still operates the same way – selling world-class John Deere equipment and putting the customer first.
Dan started with Dave Ross Equipment as an apprentice Parts Technician and within a couple of years was promoted to Parts Manager. A few years later he was also tasked with managing the Service Department, Dan recalls, “we were a very small team of one Parts Technician, one Service Technician and one Salesman.” From there he started to grow the parts and service departments, expanding as the business grew. In 2000, Dan became a partner in the re-branded Ross Ag Equipment along with mentors Dennis Brochu, Roger Dickner and Al Ross. Over the next decade they aggressively grew their business in the Peace Country, and in 2013 saw the value in becoming a part of a larger dealer network to offer the best support for their customer base.
Ross Ag Equipment was purchased by Martin Deerline, and Dan, Dennis and Roger continued to share management duties. Dan watched his partners retire and now as he celebrates his 35th year with the organization he works double duty in Falher as the Branch and Service Manager!
Working at the same place for ones lifetime may seem a bit mundane, but Dan loves his role, and being part of an organization that is an important part of the agriculture industry and community. “Martin Deerline offers a great place of employment for families, we get to connect with all the grain and cattle producers in the area, and are an important link to bringing new people to the Smoky River area. The people - both staff and customers are what make it great! I have always enjoyed learning from others as well as teaching new employees over the years.”
I am sure Dan has an entire highlight reel of memories of his career thus far, but when asked his most memorable moment he gave us two; “one – celebrating my 50th birthday while on a John Deere Factory tour, and two – getting bucked off the mechanical bull at a Martin Deerline year end party only to realize the CEO was watching me the whole time!” Dan is always one to lead by example and show us all how to have a good time!
When not at the dealership, you will most likely find Dan outside enjoying the outdoors with his wife, Nancy, their horses and pets. He also spends time trapping on his family’s 60 year old trapline south of Eaglesham as he teaches his grandkids how to trap so they can carry on the family tradition for years to come!
In talking to Dan it is very apparent that he loves the people he works with, the opportunity to help customers and a brand that comes with quality like John Deere. Thank you for your years of leadership and dedication to the community in Falher!