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60 Seconds with Ron Vittitow of West Branch
Q: What’s your “day job” in 10 words or less?
At 80+, I do more advising and consulting but am still a pretty good resource for our technicians and installers.
Q: What pulled you into the work you do now?
I started driving fuel oil and gasoline trucks for Restiner Oil Company. John asked me if I would attend a six-week school on fuel oil furnaces. I said yes and began working as a service tech.
Q: Tell us about your family.
Our grandson will be taking over our business. Our other three grandsons are all working in the trades. We now have one great granddaughter. We are also involved with our church family.
Q: What’s something people would be surprised to learn about you?
After I worked with Restiner doing service work on fuel oil furnaces, I entered the Marine Corps. Afterwards using the GI Bill, I attended Ferris State University. Because of John Restiner, I have a bachelor’s degree from Ferris in technical education; along with 9 Military MOS’s in construction oriented and heating and refrigeration licenses and much more.
Q: What’s the most “Northern Michigan/Small-town” moment you’ve had?
Walking into any function is almost like a reunion. I am related to many people. The younger generations that we do business with have grandparents, aunts and uncles that I went to school with. I can often relate stories of the past.
Q: Coffee or tea? (And where’s your go-to place?)
Coffee – My back porch in the morning, rain, shine, cold or warm, I spend 15 minutes or more enjoying my life and thanking God for my blessings.
Q: What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given—and by who?
My Dad – Don’t lie, cheat or steal. If your word is your worth, who determines your value?
