Cheers to Fifty Years!
On Saturday, September 17th, Brunette Machinery said “Cheers to fifty years!” in celebration of Larry Walsh’s 50-year work anniversary!
Larry Walsh, our superhero service technician, started work with Brunette Machine Works (now Brunette Machinery) as a machinist apprentice in 1972 when he was eighteen years old. Larry earned his machinist ticket, and moved into the fitting department. There he worked fitting and assembling metal parts for debarkers, bandmills, screens, chippers, the auto chip edger, and other equipment for sawmill and veneer plywood applications.
Later, when Brunette Machinery moved its head office to Surrey, Larry continued to work in the new shop but soon decided to retire. Well, he thought he decided to retire, but it didn’t take much to convince him to stay with the company as Brunette’s principal service technician.
Larry is known as our superhero service tech, not only for his expertise with every Brunette machine, but also for his willingness to go where he is needed and his knack for figuring out exactly what needs to be done. Those who have worked with Larry respect his knowledge and his strong work ethic. He is well known for his feisty personality and his no-nonsense approach to doing the job right.
To commemorate Larry’s outstanding milestone, Brunette held an anniversary party at the Hastings Racecourse in Vancouver. There was food, music and of course, cake! Team Brunette had a blast betting on the horses — and everyone had a bit of luck! At least there weren’t any tears or fist clenching after the last stretch!
Kirk, presented Larry with a Canucks jersey emblazoned with the number 50, a blue Brunette superhero cape — which he immediately put on — and a framed collage of “Larry” photos that we had all signed.
The rest of the afternoon was spent chatting and reminiscing about the “good old days” (when Larry had hair!)
It was a spectacular day. The weather was fantastic and the food was delicious. There was a lot of laughter and much excitement as we cheered on our favourites to win!
Thank you, Larry, for your fantastic work and contribution to Brunette! Congratulations on your amazing achievement! Cheers to fifty years!
