Several weeks have now passed since Harry Jongejans’ retirement date. The employees of Holland Staal reflect on a modest farewell held last Thursday, June 29, in our own canteen, at Harry’s request.

During that time, partner Ben Verhoef took the opportunity to share a few amusing anecdotes about Harry, as one does.

We learned that Harry had long blonde hair back in 1989. The Friday afternoon drinks in the ’80s were wild, and annually there were about 500 to 900 overtime hours recorded.

Going all out, seizing opportunities, and investigating everything down to the last detail. Enthusiasm and inspiring leadership, that’s Harry. And noisy, he can be that sometimes too.

43 years, mostly good years. But also challenging years like from 2001 to 2013, during which Holland Staal was forced to downsize in 2010 and again in 2013.

Will Harry stay away completely? Yesterday we saw him come in with a broad smile and walk up the stairs. So, we’re not betting on it 😉.