Ron Cherrey was presented with the Ontario Motorcoach Association (OMCA) Lifetime Achievement Award at the Westin Harbour Castle on Nov. 6.
Ron began working as a mechanic in his father’s Drayton garage at the age of 18. As time passed, Ron and his brothers Allan and Larry eventually took over the business. The brothers worked all day in the garage and office and then cleaned buses during the night.
“Still to this day, Ron is one of the hardest working people carrying the on-call phone 24 hours a day, seven days a week, rarely taking time away,” states a press release from Cherrey Bus Lines, which is now located in Stratford.
“Even a few months ago, following surgery, which required six weeks off, Ron was back to work the following week.”
In the 1970s, ’80s and ’90s Ron did a lot of driving. Calls would come in from various companies such as Gray Coach, Greyhound and PMCL looking for additional support during their peak times and Ron would think nothing about jumping in a coach to help them with their overloads.
“I have had the pleasure of working with Ron Cherrey and have always had a great deal of respect for him,” said Dean Wright, former dispatcher for a line haul service and current vice president of Motorcoach at Pacific Western Transportation.
“Ron could always be counted on to go the extra mile for his customers and company. Ron always completed his duties with a focus on safety and customer service. I gladly support his nomination for Lifetime Achievement.”
A second generation mechanic, Ron’s experience in the industry spans over 45 years in all aspects of maintaining, servicing and reconditioning a fleet of over 46 vehicles.
“His extensive knowledge makes him a leader in the industry,” states the press release. “He has an uncanny ability to troubleshoot mechanical issues over the phone. Not only does he assist the driver with the repair, he will bring a replacement bus to the group no matter whether it is close by or across the border, any time of day or night.”
The release notes other companies send buses to Ron for repair and rely on his knowledge and experience. Manufacturers rely on his guidance to troubleshoot issues and provide solutions.
“Cherrey Bus Lines takes great pride in our preventative maintenance program. The safety of our passengers is paramount,” states the release.
“The backbone of our organization, which often goes unrecognized, is reliant on a strong mechanical aptitude. Ron is that person … He oversees and supervises as well as trains apprentices to ensure the safe, cost effective and on-time operating performance.”
