Since this will be the first employee spotlight, it is only fitting the owners of Mettler Fertilizer and Turkey Ridge Agri-Service, Daniel and James Mettler, be the first to be in the spot light.

            Daniel Mettler started working for his father, Gerold Mettler, in the implement business in May of 1979. When Mettler Implement started the fertilizer business, Daniel would help Gerold with anhydrous ammonia application by filling tanks, delivering the tanks to the field, and also running the application equipment as well. He did this while still in high school and also after graduating from Springfield College where he studied diesel mechanics.

            In the early 1990’s, Daniel and James Mettler purchased the fertilizer business from Mettler Implement and formed Mettler Fertilizer. At the present time Daniel is the president of Mettler Fertilizer. His responsibilities include: payroll, finances, human resources, safety and maintenance of the equipment. When asked what he likes best about his job, Daniel said that it is never the same from day to day.

Daniel and his wife Robin live in Menno and have a son and three daughters, Jacob, Diedra, Sara and Mary Jo. Daniel is or has been a member of the Menno Board of Education, Zion Reformed Church Council, choir director, Menno Volunteer Fire Department, and the Menno Brass. His hobbies include collecting toys, flying airplanes, motorcycling, and music. The favorite things he enjoys are his children and family.

            James Mettler started working on a part time basis for Gerold Mettler while in grade school. After attending Lake Area Technical School in Watertown, he started working full time for Mettler Implement in February 1984. When Gerold purchased his first “Big A” floater, it was James that operated it. Next came the Spray Coupe and more time in the field.

            Today at Mettler Fertilizer, James is the vice-president of the corporation. His responsibilities involve just about everything. He usually spends a fair amount of time exploring new jobs and opportunities to keep Mettler Fertilizer busy and profitable. James started doing aerial application a couple years ago, leading to the purchase of Turkey Ridge Agri-Service in the fall 0f 2000. The people, employees and customers, are what James likes best about his job.

            Menno is home for James, wife Mary and son Macon. In his free time James likes to ride snowmobiles, golf, and fly. Some past or present community activities: Menno Community Club, Power Show, past volunteer fireman, and past Menno City council.