Goldman Equipment celebrated an employee for his dedication to the John Deere business for 50 years. Bob Castilaw was surprised by his wife, friends and co-workers with a mid-January luncheon of recognition and thanks for all he has done.

In January 1965, Castilaw and his brother-in-law drove to Lake Providence, La., to answer a help-wanted ad. He was out of work, had one child and another on the way. His brother-in-law suggested he go in and apply. Jim Howard was in an old store near the levee in Lake Providence at the time. Castilaw got the job and began working Jan. 19, 1965.

After a couple months, he volunteered his wife, Gwen, to come work there as well. Then in the fall, they moved into a new store on Highway 134. Castilaw was moved up to parts manager. After working in parts for almost a year, he told Jim Howard that he would like to try selling equipment. He was given one purchase order and a price to go sell. Sales began to pick up dramatically, and Castilaw was then allowed to take more than one purchase order at a time.

Thus began his career as a John Deere salesman. He and Gwen eventually bought into the store in West Carroll as partners with Betty Ann and George Yerger. Later, they were offered a buy-out by Goldman Equipment.

Castilaw’s title has changed several times, but he loves what he does. Today he is working as the general manager of wholesale equipment.