Jonh Wearly

For 50 years, John Wearly has been part of the Kirk NationaLease family, a family he will always remain a part of.

John began his career with Kirk in the Sidney shop at just 19 years old. On his very first day, he was thrown straight into it. John still recalls the nerves and trembling legs he felt when he was tasked with replacing a foot valve on a tilt-cab Ford equipped with copper brake lines. Not a fun job for anyone, but John got it done. At the time, Kirk NationaLease was a much smaller company with only a handful of shops, nothing like what it has grown into today. John had no idea that the opportunity he accepted would turn into an accomplished five-decade career.

His passion for wrenching started long before Kirk NationaLease. While in high school, John worked at a gas station performing mechanical repairs, yes, back when gas stations still housed repair shops, and he also enjoyed working on his own vehicles. After attending Lincoln Tech and completing both the automotive and diesel programs, he applied to several car dealerships without success. Then he saw an ad for a diesel technician position at Kirk NationaLease, a moment that would shape the next 50 years of his life.

John started as an apprentice technician and steadily worked his way through the organization. He moved from first shift to second shift, then third shift, back to first shift, on to lead technician, shop manager, and eventually Regional Manager in 2008. His career reflects dedication, hard work, and a willingness to grow alongside the company.

Over the decades, John has had a front-row seat to the changes and advancements in the trucking and diesel industry. He recalls the early days of ABS systems being “a nightmare” as technicians worked through constant issues and changes. He watched the industry evolve from paper manuals and minimal electronics to today’s world of laptops, internet-based information, and fully computer-controlled systems. He also saw dramatic improvements in equipment reliability, with engine life and warranties growing far beyond what anyone imagined years ago.

Through all of the changes, one thing remained constant for John: the family atmosphere at Kirk NationaLease. “The feeling of being a family business,” he shared. “Being able to talk to the owners and them knowing their employees.” A true testament to the culture built to support a 50-year career.

That sense of family is what made Kirk NationaLease feel like home for 50 years. Along the way, John built lifelong relationships, mentored countless employees, and helped develop technicians and managers who went on to succeed throughout the organization. John mentioned how important it is to make connections and open your mind to learn from everyone you come in contact with. John credits much of his growth and learning to Lloyd Schroer, his first shop manager, Jeff Philpot, Randy Johnston, and Brandon Bishop, believing that no matter your age, title, or position, you should always approach every relationship with an open mind and a willingness to learn.

One of John’s longtime leaders and mentors, Randy Johnston, reflected on his impact and career by saying, “Here at Kirk NationaLease, when we think about the kind of employee development and success we hope for, John Wearly represents exactly that. His career is a true example of growth, dedication, and achievement, not only in his professional life with Kirk, but also in the way he has built a close-knit family and now gets to enjoy time with his children and grandchildren. Everyone at Kirk NationaLease is extremely proud and appreciative of all John has accomplished over the years, and we are grateful for the time we’ve had working alongside him.”

Brandon Bishop, Vice President of Operations, also reflected on John’s influence throughout the organization. “I have had the privilege of working both for and alongside John for many years. As a young shop manager, I was able to witness firsthand the incredible impact he had on our company and our people. John always led by example, never asking anyone to do something he wasn’t willing to do himself. Whether helping on the shop floor or working with technicians and managers alike, he consistently demonstrated humility, dedication, and a genuine commitment to others.

“John played a significant role in shaping my own career. His guidance, support, and belief in people helped countless individuals grow both professionally and personally. He has been a trusted leader, mentor, and friend to many throughout his career. John exemplifies the true meaning of loyalty, dedication, and commitment to both the company and the Kirk family. We are grateful for his years of service and the example he has set for all of us. It has been an honor to work alongside him, and I wish him nothing but the best in this well-deserved next chapter.”

Among his proudest accomplishments are becoming ASE certified as a Master Truck and School Bus Technician, participating in the development of ASE School Bus Certification testing, and being inducted into the Lincoln Tech Hall of Fame. But beyond the awards and titles, John takes the greatest pride in seeing others grow and succeed. Over the years, he has become a staple at Kirk NationaLease, someone employees look to for answers, guidance, and leadership. His mentorship has helped shape many of the individuals now stepping into leadership roles and carrying on the heart and soul Kirk NationaLease was built on.

One of those individuals is Regional Manager Mason Reinhold, who worked closely alongside John over the years. Mason shared, “You have been a great mentor and have taught me so much, especially when it comes to people skills. Some of my best memories are the times we worked side by side while you taught me the ins and outs of the shop. I’ll truly miss working alongside you, but I’m excited for you to enjoy retirement. I appreciate everything you’ve taught me over the years.”

When asked what kept him motivated for so many years, his answer was simple: new challenges, opportunities, and a sense of accomplishment. As he reflects on his career, John says the people are what he will miss most. “It was my second family,” he said. “I worked with a lot of great people over the years.”

One of those people is Karen Wise, who has worked alongside John for more than 40 years. Reflecting on their time together, she shared, “It’s hard to believe I’ve worked with John for over 40 years. I remember him working in the Sidney shop first as a technician and later as manager and seeing the professional relationships he built with the Sidney City Schools bus drivers. The school system, the drivers, and so many other customers and employees have always had a great deal of respect for him.

“John has mentored and helped build up the next generation, and he never hesitated to help me with an equipment or shop question whenever I called or showed up at his desk, although the conversations usually started with him picking on me and showing his ornery side. We’ve shared a lot of laughs over the years, and one thing several of us won’t forget is that he makes great chocolate Whoopie Pies! After 50 years, John is definitely a legend and will be greatly missed at Kirk NationaLease.”

Few people have shared more experiences with John than President and Owner, Jeff Philpot, who has worked alongside him since 1979. Reflecting on their decades together, Jeff shared, “I’ve read everything everyone has written about John, and I don’t know what else I can add. From what I’ve read, I believe John can walk on water. I’ve seen him do it in the winter, but I can’t say I’ve seen him do it in the summer. Maybe I just had my back turned.”

“Over the years, we’ve done just about everything that could possibly be done on a truck together. We’ve completed in-frame overhauls on 855 Cummins engines in a single shift, bobtailed down the interstate trying to track down a problem, and even pulled an engine, transmission, and driveline from a truck to run a test engine for Cummins. Those are just a few examples.”

“If you looked up integrity in the dictionary, you’d see a picture of John. Happy retirement, John. We love you. Don’t be a stranger—the door is always open.”

Another longtime coworker, Deb Prater, also reflected on the impact John has had over the years. “I have worked alongside John for more than 40 years, although he has been here much longer than me! For five decades, John has been an important part of Kirk’s success. His knowledge, dependability, and positive attitude have made a lasting impact on both employees and customers. Whether he was helping solve problems, mentoring team members, or simply lending a hand whenever needed, John consistently went above and beyond. He was such a skilled technician and bus expert that ASE even used him to help write the bus certification test. That alone is a legacy.”

“John is not only known for his strong work ethic, but also for the friendships and memories he helped create over the years. Many employees still fondly remember the after-hours parties he hosted in the suburbs of Swander, Ohio. From Halloween costumes to New Year’s Eve celebrations, there were plenty of laughs and memories made. A few of us even still remember his birthday ride around Sidney in a convertible with a clown!”

“John has truly been a legendary member of the Kirk family. While retirement is a happy occasion, he will definitely be missed. I guess I’ll just have to settle for driving past his house and yelling at him from the car. Congratulations, John!”

For the next generation entering the industry, John encourages young technicians to take advantage of every opportunity available to them. “Take advantage of the training, listen to coworkers with years of experience, and go the extra mile,” he said. “The sky’s the limit. It’s up to you to want it, and you will succeed and have a successful career.”

Now, after an incredible 50-year career, John is looking forward to spending more time with family, watching his great-grandson grow, family vacations, outdoor projects, working on his own vehicles, and taking care of what he jokingly calls his “zoo.”

When asked to summarize his journey at Kirk in just a few words, John said it best: “It’s been an incredible ride, and I’m ready for the next 50 years!”

Thank you, John, for 50 years of dedication, leadership, mentorship, and commitment to the Kirk NationaLease family. Your impact will continue to be felt for generations to come, and we wish you nothing but the very best in retirement.

Here at Kirk NationaLease, when we think about the kind of employee development and success we hope for, John Wearly represents exactly that. His career is a true example of growth, dedication, and achievement, not only in his professional life with Kirk, but also in the way he has built a close-knit family and now gets to enjoy time with his children and grandchildren. Everyone at Kirk NationaLease is extremely proud and appreciative of all John has accomplished over the years, and we are grateful for the time we’ve had working alongside him.

Randy Johnston

You have been more than just a mentor to me, you have been someone who truly helped shape the way I work and interact with others. The lessons you taught me about people, leadership, and the day-to-day ins and outs of the shop are things I will carry with me throughout my career. Some of my best memories were the times we spent working side by side, learning from you every step of the way. Your patience, knowledge, and willingness to teach never went unnoticed, and I’m incredibly grateful for everything you poured into me over the years. It’s going to be hard not having you around the shop, and I will truly miss working alongside you. You’ve earned this next chapter, and I hope retirement brings you nothing but happiness, relaxation, and time to enjoy life. Thank you for everything you’ve taught me and for the impact you’ve had on my career here at Kirk Nationalease. It means more than words can say.

Some people leave an impact through words, others through actions. Working alongside you has taught me the value of hard work, leadership, accountability, and treating people the right way. Those lessons will stay with me for life.

Mason Reinhold

I have had the privilege to work for and alongside John for many years. As I young shop manager at the time I was able to witness firsthand the incredible impact he has on our company and people. John has always led by example, never asking anyone to do something he wasn’t willing to do himself. He was always willing to help on the shop floor, work with technicians and managers alike. He consistently demonstrated humility and commitment to his team members.

John played a significant role in shaping my own career. His guidance, support, and belief in others helped countless individuals grow professionally and personally. He has been a trusted leader, mentor, and a friend to many throughout his tenure.

John exemplifies the true meaning of loyalty, dedication, and commitment to both the company and Kirk family. We are truly grateful for John’s years of service and the example he has set for all of us. It has been an honor to work with John. I wish him the best as he moves to the next chapter of his life, as it is well deserved.

Brandon Bishop