Monday, September 23, 2024
I first met John in 2001 while working in ARI's FAP department. I was new to the role and John was beginning to transition towards retirement at the end of 2003. During this time, I got to work with him on a few projects in the beginning and quickly learned that he was not just one of the most knowledgeable people in fleet, but also a genuinely kind, patient and thoughtful person. John also had a strong work ethic and high standards and when you worked with him, you wanted to do your best, if not for anything else, then to simply not wanting to disappoint him!
For me, John was a blessing in more ways than I think he ever knew. I was struggling in many ways in my new role, trying to learn a job that offered little to no training at the time, and John went out of his way to not just answer my questions, but to teach and provide guidance and insight into what I was doing, a mentor of sorts. He gave me a new level of confidence I had never had before and, prior to his retiring, helped get me into the job role I am still doing over 20 years later.
Without John and his support, training and, most importantly, believing in me, I am not sure where I would have ended up in my career, but I know I am a better person for knowing him and extremely grateful for all that he did for me. And to this day, I continue to pay it forward like John did for me for those just starting out as well. And whenever the chance arises, I always tell them about John and how he made an impact on my career / life.
My condolences to the Coyle family, thoughts and prayers are with you. And to John, rest in peace my friend.
