History

The initial organization of Western Wayne came about from a casual conversation between Glenn Long and Joe Lucas - at that time, State Inspector for this area. Mr Lucas was a firm believer in the benefits that could be derived from belonging to an association and attending the State Conventions. Glenn attended his first convention at the old Book Cadillac Hotel in Detroit and there talked with Fred Forth, the Executive Secretary of the State Association. As a result of these conversations, Mr. Forth & George Riber contacted plumbers in the area individually and met with them as a group at the Mayflower Hotel in Plymouth, 1953. From this initial meeting, the nucleus of the present organization was formed. Western Wayne has been known and characterized for the fellow¬ship of its members, and the active role within the State Association and National Plumbing Contractors Association by its members. Western Wayne members who have served as State Presidents of the Michigan Plumbing and Mechanical Contractors Association (MPMCA) include: Bill Reid 1963-64, Don Priest 1966-67, Bob Lussenden 1974-75, Frank Davidson 1976-77, Glenn Long 1982-83, Jim Long 1986-87, Dan Bergstrom 1990-91 and Rich Reff 1999-00. This tradition continues as Mark Ratliff is our current State President for 2006-2007. Don Priest also served our Association as a National Director for 3 terms. The MPMCA Women's Auxiliary has also been well represented by Western Wayne. Past State Presidents include Mrs. Bill Reid (Viola) 1962-64, Mrs Fred Richter (Nina) 1974-76, Mrs. Lee Ratliff (Pat) 1980-82, and Mrs. Richard Reff (Chris) 1996-00. Western Wayne - an Association of Plumbing and Mechanical contractors, many of whom compete against each other day in and day out, who gather on a regular basis in an on-going effort to improve the industry in which they are involved. May the tradition continue for another 50 years.