Dave and Linda Harding announce retirement, community reacts
The Hardings daughter Marcia made this announcement and tribute on social media, marking the end of an era in Canisteo NY:
Today marks the close of Ells’ & Rod’s Service Center in Canisteo. My dad, David Harding, has owned the station for as long as I can remember. He once told me that he would retire at 59 and sell it. Well, nearly 20 years later that has finally happened.
Canisteo is a community like no other, and my parents have both had jobs within it that have allowed them to get to know so many wonderful people and watch several generations grow up before their very eyes. They so appreciate everyone’s business through the years, and I appreciate this town being so wonderful to my parents.
In the past, I have always asked people to beep their horns as they drove by Sunoco on October 15th to help my dad celebrate his birthday. Well, I’m sure you will find him in the rocking chair on his front porch this year and he will need 79 beeps! But for now, I would just like to celebrate my parents both finally being retired! They have more than earned it! Love you both!”
The community will clearly miss the Hardings:
Trinity D., has been a longtime customer:
“If you know me well, you know I hate pumping gas. I would go out of my way to go to this gas station. Not only because it was full service, but because the guys were truly the best! When my boys were young, David would always give them lollipops no matter what time of the day it was. I’m certainly going to miss the wonderful service and parting ways with a big smile and “have a great day and an even better tomorrow.”
Hannah D., :
“Congrats Red!! I started going with grandma to get gas and drop off treats, it’s now come full cirlce and I go with my kids and they got to hear him talk about my grandparents, enjoy your retirement, in your words Red, “Have a great day and a better tomorrow!”“
Gary S.,:
“The end of an era …… my grandfather , my dad , and me all got gas there over the years … ( me in the ups truck ) … Dave knew all 3 of us Saxtons …. it was a pleasure going in there and talking about the good ole days etc …. happy retirement much deserved ! Thank u for all the great service over the years ……”
David E.,:
“A staple in the Canisteo valley for years. Enjoy your retirement. Thank you so much for all you gave us“
