After 65 years of dedicated service to Michels, Jerry Eilbes is hanging up his hard hat.
Affectionately known as Employee No. 1, Jerry was the first person Dale Michels hired to work at his fledgling pipeline distribution company. When Dale was injured soon thereafter, Jerry rallied the crew to continue working and assisted with day-to-day operations. Once Dale returned, the two worked side by side to solidify Michels’ reputation for quality and to expand its services.
In addition to playing a fundamental role in Michels’ infancy, Jerry continued to contribute to the growth of a Wisconsin pipeline company into an international energy and infrastructure contractor serving industries focused on improving the quality of daily life.
Even after scaling back his hours in 1997, he remained actively involved at Michels, completing special projects in our Brownsville, WI yard.
“I enjoy operating all this top-notch equipment,” Jerry said. “It gets in your blood. It stays there. It does not leave!”
It is more than longevity that has cemented Jerry’s stature as a Michels legend. His loyalty, exemplary work ethic, and can-do attitude have remained constant over the decades and exemplify our Core Values. We cannot express how appreciative we are for Jerry’s enduring dedication, and we wish him well in his retirement.
Jerry’s impact will not soon be forgotten, and neither is he likely to forget Michels.
“Throughout my life, I will always be proud that I was known as No. 1,” Jerry said.
