The Pencil That Never Ran Out

A Story from Mark Schelter:

So don’t ask me how many years ago, but I seem to remember a time when John was working out west??  And correct me if I’m wrong somehow switched teams from Home Hardware to Home Depot!!!    I remember feeling like he was double crossing the Schelter family loyalty to Home Hardware!! I remember thinking this would affect family ties but then…. details are foggy but somehow, I received a box of Home Depot pencils (in the mail?) that I’m still using to this day!!!!   Not sure how many were in the box 100 or 500 but to this day I have never been without a solid contractor pencil!!!!   Think of you John, every time I use them!!!.   Yet, another example of how meaningful the smallest of gifts can be!!!. 

My memories of you John go way back to me being a kid thinking this cousin is amazing, always chill, super funny and strong.   I still get flashes of you chasing people down in a ball hockey game at Albert McCormick arena, with Bonnie and thinking I would never want to be in the way of that guy!   I believe it’s a Schelter gene that I’ve always held as important… we’re determined, tough, relentless but also funny and caring at the same time!!  Seeing you leaning on the padded bar in Uncle Jacks basement making others smile was always an inspiring thing for me!

I know it’s been years since we’ve connected but the charm and character of being a Schelter has always been a trait I try to keep going, as a Schelter.