News - Iowa Outstanding Older Worker

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Iowa Outstanding Older Worker

Congratulations to Leonard Daman for being nominated as one of Iowa's Outstanding Older Workers! This award recognizes the contributions and accomplishments that Leonard has made professionally and in his community. He was honored at a banquet in Des Moines on Friday, August 26.

Leonard grew up on a farm in Iowa, where his parents taught him the value of hard work. He graduated from Cresco High School in 1946 and served for three years in the U.S. Marine Corps as a Classification Specialist and Instructor. In 1949, he returned to work at his family's farm and married his wife Mila on March 4, 1950. Two years later, he relocated to Des Moines to work for his brother's refrigeration business. Leonard was hired by John Deere in 1957 as a Student B draftsman, worked his way up to Senior Designer, and retired in 1982.

In the 1970's, Leonard and Mila joined the International Flying Farmers. Mila obtained her pilot's license, they bought an airplane, and they flew extensively. During this time, Leonard began to refurbish aircraft interiors, which was the start of his upholstery business. After retiring from John Deere, Leonard earned an Aviation Mechanics Certificate. They purchased the aviation business at the Decorah Airport and managed it for seven years. Leonard and Mila moved back to Waterloo in 1990, where they started Old Mill Upholstery and Antiques. Leonard refurbished domestic upholstery, and Mila managed the antique shop focused on Depression Glass.

Bob Diedrichs approached Leonard in 1995 about working as a Designer at Diedrichs & Associates, Inc. Being an "old paper and pencil guy," he was hesitant at first, but he quickly picked up computer skills. Since then, Leonard has worked on various projects at Diedrichs. In 2004, he was elated to work as a Materials Research Analyst doing research on John Deere vintage tractors. Currently, he is on assignment at Terex Cranes in Waverly doing computer drafting and designing.

Leonard is truly grateful for all the blessings in his life: good health, a sound mind, a strong marriage of 55 years, 4 lovely children, everything he has ever needed, and much of what he has wanted. He credits God for who he is today and for his accomplishments during his 77 year journey through life. Although he is uncertain when his employment will end, he does say, "I LOVE IT!" Leonard's enthusiasm and passion for his work is an inspiration.

The Outstanding Older Worker Award is sponsored by Experience Works, Inc. a company that provides employment and training opportunities for individuals over 55 years of age. This is an opportunity to honor older workers for the valuable talents and expertise they bring to the workplace. Each year, Outstanding Older Workers from each state are selected to represent their state at the Prime Time Award Activities held in Washington, D.C. This year, Milt Roth owner and operator of Roth Jewelers in Waterloo was one representative for the state of Iowa. For more information, visit Experience Works, Inc.

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