CALF_News_August_September_2020

33 CALF News • August | September 2020 • www.calfnews.net CAPITOL LAND & LIVESTOCK The Schwertner Select program is a health based program aimed at weaning a calf in its healthiest, natural environment. 254.527.3342 www.cllnet.com In business since 1946, we are committed to delivering quality, country fresh calves and yearlings on time at a guaranteed price. Schwertner Select Industry’s fIrst automated squeeze chute Brute Cattle equipment 402.693.2221 www.dodgemfg.com ® Visit us on the Web, facebook or twitter for video demonstrautions. A utonomous C atch-chute E lIte Brute douBle & sIngle Wedge alleys, tuBs & loadouts call today! offerings, helping to stimulate continued growth within this segment of the indus- try,” Kline said. In 2011, Lextron merged withWalco Animal Health International and the name changed to Animal Health International, Inc.“This accomplished a long-term goal of mine to own Walco, Hummel said.“Going in, we thought there were substantial synergies to be had, even though it took several years to get those synergies.” In 2015, the partners and lifelong friends sold the business to the Patterson Companies. Many of the foundation and business principles Hummel embedded into his company are still evident today. “Dr. Hummel was never bashful about giving credit where credit is due and he would often state that ‘his team got this company to where it is today,’’’ Kline said. “He would constantly remind us of one of his favorite sayings, ‘The customer always votes last.’ He often stated, ‘I am just the janitor around here.’ HEROES AMONG US: HUMMEL Continued from page 31 “However, he has always been the inspiration and driving force behind the company. Bob’s knowledge of the livestock industry and the world of business through feeding cattle and dealing directly with his customer base has taught many young men and women how to survive and grow in this industry. “Many of you in this room tonight have either sold Bob Hummel products or have bought products or services from Bob, and it’s probably fair to say his pres- ence could never be ignored. Well, trust me, working for him was much the same. The key to working for Dr. Hummel was like others of his age group – show up on time, work hard, don’t lie or steal, and show that you care about your co- workers, your customers and, ultimately, your company. “He has always set the example and a high bar in all these categories. When asked why he worked seven days a week, he stated, ‘I have no hobbies. This com- pany is my hobby’. “With the sale and his supposed retire- ment at 78 years of age, I asked Bob a few months back what he missed most about leaving the business. He said,‘I miss the people of the industry that I’d gotten to know so well. I would like to think I helped a few retirement programs through my efforts within our company.’” I was reminded of a conversation Bob and I had when he called after my hus- band, Dean, passed away. His company’s sale had just gone through and I con- gratulated him on how it had gone. “I like to think I took a number of good people along with me,” he said. He did.  "Bob’s knowledge of the livestock industry and the world of business through feeding cattle and dealing directly with his customer base has taught many young men and women how to survive and grow in this industry." – Chub Kline