| This
Czechoslovakian operation is built on family pride and tradition.
The second generation began with W.J. (Willie). Willie enjoyed working
in a family business like his father. While the family grew closer
together by striving toward a common goal, their partnership grew
and received local recognition. Willie was awarded a "Pioneer
Award" from the Southwestern Meat Association to recognize his
spirit of enterprise, leadership and contribution to the meat industry.
The leadership
legacy continued with Bob (3rd generation) within the Southwest
Meat Association. Bob served as President of the association for
two terms. In 2000, SMA established a scholarship fund in Bob’s
name, which helps students pursuing degrees in meat science. Because
of his love for children, Bob was also involved in the State Fair
of Texas Junior Livestock Committee and the Kaufman County Junior
Livestock Show. Bob served as President of the Livestock Show Board
for Kaufman.
Joe (3rd generation)
is currently leading the next generation into the millennium. Joe
entered into the business after graduating with an Accounting Degree
in 1967. With the experience of both Bob and Joe, Columbia has expanded
into a 70,000 square foot food distribution and slaughter facility.
The heritage at Columbia is seen through the eight Ondruseks who
are currently employed.
Learning the
business from the ground up is a tradition this family has perfected.
Although they guide one another, each Ondrusek has found his or
her niche in the facility as the fourth generations are assuming
active roles in the daily operations.
Some traditions
at Columbia Packing Co., include:
- Participation
in the Junior Livestock State Fair of Texas for over 50 years
- Charter
member Southwest Meat Association in 1957
- Member of
Dallas-Ft. Worth Grocers Association
- Host of Junior/Senior
Meats Judging Contest
- USDA inspected
products since 1975
- Currently
under a quality program known as Hazard Analysis Critical Control
Point designed to meet the new USDA guidelines.
Improved packaging
techniques, developing products and creating new markets are some
of the challenges that face the next generation. The Ondruseks believe
with their customer's help Columbia can continue to succeed for
the many generations that will follow.
Adhering to
the attitude that "We believe that business goes where it is
invited and stays where it is well treated" Columbia Packing
Co., Inc has gained a solid reputation of quality and dependability
in the food industry.
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----_______________"Celebrating
90 Years"
