After 45 years, Coulter calls it a career with Walton's McGavin's
BY SCOTT STEPHENSON
The bustling atmosphere of McGavin’s Farm Equipment in Walton on Thursday, March 28, bore witness to a heartfelt celebration as members of the local farming community came together to honour Steve Coulter’s remarkable 45-year journey with the company. Hotdogs and hamburgers hot off the grill were served in abundance and a cake emblazoned with a New Holland tractor made out of icing was ready to be ceremoniously cut and systematically devoured.
Coulter embarked on his career at McGavin’s in 1979, starting in the Parts Department and eventually flourishing as a seasoned salesman. Technically, this is Coulter’s second official retirement - in 1995, he wound down a 20-year-long run as a key figure in the local hockey scene. He was general manager of the Wingham Ironmen for a very successful four years, and had previously been deeply involved with the now-defunct Brussels Bulls. His dedication to youth hockey led to the formation of a Brussels-based hockey school that brought out the talent in local players.
Jeff McGavin fondly remarked, “Steve’s been amazing. He started with us when he was 19 years old and 45 years later he’s hanging ‘em up.” Reflecting on Coulter’s impact, McGavin added, “He’s definitely a people-person and definitely well organized and good at his job, for sure.”
In a farewell address, Coulter expressed gratitude, stating, “I’d like to thank the Roberts family and the McGavin family that I’ve been part of; I’ve had a lot of family.” He further shared, “I certainly enjoyed working with my co-workers as well. They’ve been great over the years - I’ve had a lot of them too.”
Reflecting on his professional journey, Coulter reminisced, “It’s been a long voyage, but very memorable and a great voyage.” He praised the community, saying, “The people are great here. You don’t work 45 years at one place if you don’t work with great people; and a great farming community.”
Brian McGavin, echoing sentiments of admiration, noted, “Everyone wanted to deal with him because of his personality. He’s happy-go-lucky, makes you feel comfortable and you know you’re dealing with someone you can trust.”
Julie Coulter, Steve’s wife, expressed joy and gratitude, stating, “I think it’s wonderful. Everybody has supported him, and he’s done so well with the customers - he loves his customers.” She added, “We got married in 1980, and he started here before that. I think he’s pretty happy dealing with so many different people.”
Tracy Wareham, Steve’s sister, conveyed excitement for his well-deserved retirement, saying, “I’m just super excited for him. Forty-five years is a long time, and I just want him to enjoy and relax and have a great retirement.”
Jean Coulter, Steve’s mother, beamed, “We’re very proud of him.” Reflecting on how the store will manage in his absence, Jean humourously added, “I don’t know.” Steve’s father Bob’s advice for the next phase of his son’s life? “Enjoy it!”
Sister-in-law Sherri Hicks praised the guest of honour’s sales acumen, stating, “Anytime I have sold anything, including anything from an old estate, Steve is the man to do it. Don’t even try - just give it to him - he’s the one who will sell out of everything.”
Business founder Neil McGavin, who hired Steve, reflected, “We’re very proud of how everything has gone with Steve. I don’t think we’ve had a cross word.” Predicting Steve’s retirement pursuits, Neil remarked, “He likes to golf so he thinks he’s going to do a lot of golfing. I think he’ll get along alright.”
Asked about the turnout for the day’s celebration, Neil shared, “It’s amazing. It just really shows you what the community is like and that they really love getting out to mingle. It’s really something just watching people visit - people who haven’t seen each other for a bit - you can see it on their faces that they’re happy.”
Steve Coulter’s retirement not only marks the end of an era at McGavin’s, but also celebrates a legacy of dedication, camaraderie and trust within the farming community. Congratulations Steve!