Joanne Pahl, Larry & Mary Winum
Employee Name: Mary Winum
Number of years of service at Pahl’s: 25 years
Briefly describe your job duties at Pahl’s: My duties have always been to give the very best “service” I can to each and every person that comes thru the doors of our greenhouse.
What is the most rewarding part of your job? I especially love working with the customer that says “I don’t know much about flowers, but I want to learn. Will you help me” It is fun to see their amazement when with a little direction they themselves design a beautiful plan for their yard or patio, there is always a big thank you from them and I say “That is what we are here for”
Tell us about your family: My wonderful husband, Larry, and I have been married for 57 years and we have 4 children Larry Jr., Steve, Jane (married to Gary Pahl), and Mary Ellen Reger. They have given us 9 beautiful Grandchildren and 4 Great Grandchildren, So Far!!
What is your favorite indoor/outdoor activity? I have always enjoyed taking pictures of people, scenery, and grandchildren’s sports. I took photos of Pahls Market over the years. The photo of the first greenhouse in 1994 was one I took. Look how far they have come. I will always cherish the memories of Joanne Pahl, Gary’s Mother, and I opening the little flower market every morning starting in July 1988.
What do you miss most about being a kid? I can’t remember anymore because it has been so long since I was a kid! Ha! 80 year ago.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be? I would love to learn how to play the piano. It seems as if it would be a relaxing thing to do and something others would enjoy listening to.
What was the first thing you bought with your own money? A couple of neckties for Larry when we were dating!
If you could choose anyone, who would you pick to be your mentor? Why? I had a wonderful mentor in my own mother. She was soft spoken and gave me advice when I needed it and correction when I deserved it.
If you won the lottery, what is the first thing you would do? I would treat the whole family to a wonderful vacation where we would all be together and enjoy each other’s company.
What is your all time favorite movie? The Wizard of Oz and It’s a Wonderful Life
What song do you play the most often? I Left My Heart in San Francisco by Frank Sinatra
What’s one of the happiest things you’ve ever done? I want to say at this time that working with all of you at Pahls Market and Farm has been 25 years of happiness for me. I have always looked forward to Moss Basket Days that started the season off and the time we would catch up on each other’s lives. You have become very special friends to me!
Pahl’s First Greenhouse (1994)
It is always a true joy to have you in the greenhouse greeting everyone and sharing your beautiful smile. Congratulations to a very deserving gal!!