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Andy Bazan celebrated 50 years at Finkbiner Equipment, where he began his career in 1974. Starting at a junior in high school, he worked his way up and eventually became a co-owner. The company honored him with a luncheon in September.
Wed October 09, 2024 - Midwest Edition #21
In 1974, Richard Nixon became the first president to resign from office; Hank Aaron topped Babe Ruth's career home run record; Muhammad Ali won the "Rumble in the Jungle" after knocking out George Foreman; Blazing Saddles was the top movie at the box office; and Andy Bazan began his career at Finkbiner Equipment Company in Burr Ridge, Ill.
Bazan was hired by Mary Finkbiner when he was a junior in high school. He worked after school, over school vacations and during summers. In fact, he recruited his brother to work for the company after his graduation.
"When I went away to school at Illinois State, I got my brother, Radar, to take my spot here," said Bazan.
Marty Ahrendt, former owner and president of Finkbiner is the one who recommended Bazan for the job.
"We each handed the job down — we all went to high school together and wound up working here for most all our careers," he said.
Following his graduation from Illinois State, Bazan worked in the parts department under Ed Nita, parts manager. After three or four years, one of the salespeople retired and Bill Finkbiner offered Bazan a territory. The rest, as they say, is history.
Bazan, Ahrendt and Tom Beckman had the opportunity to purchase Finkbiner. After Beckman passed away, Bazan and Ahrendt eventually sold the business to American State Equipment Company, its current owner.
"We do have people who get into the industry and stay in the industry," said Bazan. "I've been fortunate to work with Marty and my brother. We've had some people who have started 25/30 years ago. You don't see a whole lot of turnover. They seem to hang and stay with us.
"It's been a great place to work," he said.
To honor Bazan's five decades of service, the staff of Finkbiner celebrated with a luncheon on Sept. 27, attended by customers, vendors, family and staff.
For more information, visit finkbinerequipment.com. CEG