A big day coming up for Powassan business Gomoll Timber Mart this week as it celebrates its 50th year in business Saturday at 11 a.m.
A free BBQ, refreshments, and draws will follow greetings by Al Gomoll, Mayor Peter McIsaac, and Councillor Dave Britton.
In 1953, Frederick Gomoll and his two sons, Clayton and Allan, formed F. A. Gomoll and Sons Limited. Over the next 27 years, they constructed 56 homes, 30 prefabricated homes, 27 additions, 16 cottages, 13 schools, six portables, six garages, six renovations, two post offices, two office buildings, one chalet, the Powassan OPP station, and Eastholme.
In 1963, Allan injured his back pouring concrete at the Powassan OPP station but continued to persevere at building until 1969. That same year he started the building supplies division, opened a small showroom on Clarke Street, and expanded his operation to the present location at 8 Joseph Street.
In 1980, Clayton decided to retire from contracting and joined Al.
In 1989, Al’s daughter Shelley, present owner, started to work part-time in the office and became a full-time employee upon receiving her Bachelor of Business Administration degree. Although Al officially retired many years ago, his love of helping people design and build their dreams brings him back to the business regularly.
Over the past 50 years, GOMOLL’S has been fortunate to have employed many outstanding people.
Current staff includes Al Gomoll (50 years), Shelley Kingsbury (30 years), Warren Whitehead (18 years), Don Rowland (9 years), James Barnett (4 years), Scott Forsyth (3 years), David Brisson (3 years), Zachary Mills (1 year), and Chadwick Williams (1 year).
