Sixty Four Years of Serving the Restaurant Industry

All Glory to God

In preparing these remarks, I find myself humbled and grateful for the gifts and blessings in my life. None of it would have been possible without the role models who shaped who I've become and who inspired me to give back to others in return. It started with our forefathers, parents, uncles, siblings, friends, and colleagues in the Wisconsin Apartment Association, in the Wisconsin Restaurant Association, as well as other organizations I've been part of. And, of course, my wife, Pat, our three children, Christopher, Kristin, and Matthew, our two grandchildren, Charlie and Lucy, our extended family, and the many exchange students who became part of our family. Their love, compassion, patience, and understanding made so much of this possible.

Our forefathers set quiet but powerful examples showing the importance of giving time, talent, and support to church and community. That lesson left a deep imprint on me and my siblings from a young age. Beyond family, I've been fortunate to be mentored by many gifted professionals, both in and out of the hospitality industry. That journey through life and business has had a lasting impact on my goal setting and professional values. I'm also grateful to the patrons who supported me and to fellow industry colleagues who were always willing to help me grow and with whom I could share what I've learned. My outstanding proteges, employees, and support staff, many of whom go unseen, added yet another layer of role models to learn from.

My personal life and community involvement have included a wide range of committees and leadership roles in professional societies at both the state and national levels. These experiences provided additional role models, individuals whose wisdom and compassion for what the hospitality industry stands for have been both inspirational and aspirational.

Over the years, my board and committee involvement has included: Rotary, Rotary International, and Past President of Rotary; one of the founders of the Morning Rotary Club; advisory board member of Midstate Technical College's Food and Hospitality program; advisory board member for the Meals on Wheels program, where I also prepared meals for over thirty years; member of the Elks for forty nine years; the Eagles and the Big Brothers Big Sisters program; the Tavern League; Past President of the Apartment Association; board member and Past President of the Wisconsin Restaurant Association at both the local and state chapter levels; member of the Walther League Youth Church Organization; Church Elder and member of Christ Lutheran Church; member of the Men's Bible Group; President of Thrivent, the financial organization; one of the founders and committee member for the first Crystal Apple Award; approved caterer for Volk Field and Fort McCoy military bases; and ordained by Life Church Ministries. Many other side adventures and community involvements have shaped what I strive to live by each day, and I am forever grateful for all of it.

In closing, two quotes have been core reminders during difficult times. When doubt creeps in, both were shared with me by unsung mentors along the way.

The first is attributed to Etienne de Grellet, a Quaker missionary:

"I shall pass this way but once. Any good that I can do or any kindness that I can show to any human being, let me do it now. Let me not defer nor neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again."

The second is from Ralph Waldo Emerson and captures much of what matters most:

"To be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, and to make a difference."

Much of this, you don't fully appreciate until you've lived it.

All Glory to God

Without the triune God, none of this would be possible. His blessings, his forgiveness, and his guidance through decisions and struggles are what shape who we become, and his word continues to teach us along the way. As we reflect on all that has been built and all that has been given, we are reminded to always be mindful and thankful for our spiritual blessings as we walk the path of life. For those who came before us, we are forever grateful. And to the generations yet to come — may you carry this legacy forward with the same love, dedication, and faith that built it. God bless the generations to come. 

— Dale Leffel

F.M.P.

Food Service Management Professional