The Best Teammate...Darwin Klinger

Darwin “Dar” Klinger has been the most loyal employee we have ever met. Dar started working at our company when he was 26 years old. His tenure has lasted 37 years and counting! He is a jack of all trades and is willing to do anything you ask as soon as you ask him. He never asked for anything in return other than to be part of a team. Darwin had recently retired to spend more time with his wife, Jeanette. However, his “retirement” didn’t last long as we continued to need his expertise in irrigation as we faced the same staff shortages as everyone else. Dar, without hesitation, agreed to return to help us stay on course. He will do whatever is best for the team. Dar is the definition of team!

Early Monday morning, Darwin woke up to black smoke running through his house. He swiftly woke his wife and stepson up and escorted them to safety. The Klinger’s house was quickly engulfed in flames. The fire department was on the scene in 20 minutes, but the house was a total loss, burnt to the foundation. The Klingers lost everything. Unfortunately, the house and its contents were not insured. Their neighbors equipped them with clothes to fulfill their immediate needs. On Monday, that was literally all they had, the clothes their neighbors gave them.

Dar is the type of person that would give you the shirt off his back. It’s now our turn to return the favor. Our company and friends are working hard to get the Klingers back on their feet. Day by day, we have more answers and directions. Dar and Jeanette have been unbelievably upbeat, given their current situation. The Klingers will persevere as they always do. They are just going to need some help along the way. Please consider helping them find their way. If you prefer to donate to the Klingers offline, you can send a check to 7452 Moorsbridge Rd, Portage, MI 49024.

Thank you for taking the time to read their story. I assure you Dar is so grateful for any help he receives. That’s the kind of guy he is!