May 10
18
Gerald Sikora- Auto Industry Veteran
Parts Associate Offers Expertise And Giving Spirit
Gerald “Gerry” Sikora’s office isn’t decorated like most people’s. His daily surroundings include racks of tires and car parts. In the spirit of a true autoworker, his desk is homemade.
“I put this desk together myself. It works just fine,” Gerry said with understated pride.
Gerald Sikora at work
Gerald Gerry makes it clear his happiness comes from the simple things in life. For most of his life he has volunteered as an Auxiliary firefighter with the Buffalo Fire Department. he said he’s has been called to major fires in the city hundreds of times, many during the night. Not once did it affect his work.
“People ask me why I do it,” Gerry said. “But I love it. You get the satisfaction of helping people and some excitement.” Gerry also worked on the Salvation Army canteen truck which provides rehab to firefighters and emergency personnel during major fires and other incidents.
Another reason behind his volunteer work is the love for the city of Buffalo. He owns a home in the East Lovejoy district and has lived in the city for his entire life.
“I just love to do my part to make the city what it is today,” Gerry said.
This is what makes Gerald Gerry such a fitting West Herr employee. Gerry has been with West Herr for 15 years at the Saturn of Clarence parts department in numerous positions. He has over 40 years of experience in the auto industry including time as an autobody repair technician. He says one of his favorite things about West Herr is their dedication to Western New York.
“They’ve made a commitment to grow in Western New York,” Gerry said.
Gerry is especially impressed by West Herr’s charity work and how personally involed the owners and vice presidents are. What he particularly likes is how they rarely publicize their involvement and their actions are for all the right reasons.
“There’s an old phrase ‘run silent, run deep.’ That’s how West Herr operates with their charity work,” Gerry said.
Gerry spends his remaining free time with his wife of 40 years, Carol. He has three children and six grandchildren. When asked about his hobbies the answer revolves around his family.
As for the future Gerry says, “one day at a time…either way there’s always something to do with the grandkids,” he said smiling. Whatever he chooes to do, Gerald Sikora’s giving nature will be sure to inspire those around him.
