Tribute: Remembering a Visionary Leader & Lifelong Mentor
It is with deep respect that we honor the legacy of Charles Garney, a leader whose vision, humility, and unwavering commitment to others shaped not only our company but also the community and industry at large. Charles was a leader who believed that true success was measured by the impact made on those around him—whether that meant fostering an environment of employee ownership, championing innovation, or mentoring future leaders. His life’s work was guided by a deep sense of integrity, generosity, and dedication to both family and the broader community.
Building a Legacy of Shared Ownership
From the outset of his leadership, Charles championed the idea that success should be shared with those who helped build it. Beginning with profit-sharing initiatives in the 1970s, he laid the groundwork for the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) in 1986. Over the course of a decade, he led the transition to full employee ownership, and in 1995, Garney became 100% employee owned. This decision became a defining feature of Charles’s leadership and a hallmark of Garney.
An Industry Leader & Mentor
Under his guidance, Garney flourished, becoming a model of employee ownership and inspiring other companies to become employee owned. Charles was known for his entrepreneurial spirit and willingness to share his knowledge, mentoring future leaders within Garney and beyond. His influence extended throughout the city, particularly in the Northland area, where his contributions helped fuel economic development and uplift the community. Known for saying, “I’ve bounced off a lot of walls in my life,” he embraced an entrepreneurial spirit and inspired others to grow, both professionally and personally.
Family & Community at His Core
Even with all he accomplished, Charles was always grounded in his commitment to family. His wife, Patty, their six daughters, and his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the true heart of his life. A lover of James Taylor’s music, the lyric “Shower the people you love with love” embodies the core of Charles’s character. He always prioritized family and community over personal recognition, consistently lifting those around him.
A Legacy of Humility & Generosity
Raised working alongside his father, Art, who immigrated and started a plumbing business, Charles learned the values of hard work, humility, and generosity early on. These values guided him throughout his career, where he prioritized the success of others, especially those within Garney.
His life’s work was devoted to empowering the people around him, creating a profound and lasting impact that resonates throughout Garney, shaping its culture and inspiring future generations of employees. His influence will continue to guide and elevate the company for years to come.