Gordy's Marine

Just a few weeks ago, members of the Whowell Family, representing Gordy’s, were honored at a black-tie affair held at the Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. The celebration was to honor the Top 100 Dealers, as selected by Boating Industry Magazine, an 83 year old publication which is regarded as the most authoritative and widely respected magazine serving the marine industry. And when the “dust settled” on the selection process, Gordy’s found itself at Number 3 on the list that included the top one hundred dealers, chosen from the many marine dealerships located throughout the United States and Canada. Gordy’s is a family owned business, begun in 1955 by Gordon “Gordy” Whowell, whom I had the privilege and fun of getting to know. Now, 3-generations later, the company consists of its marina, a boat sales, storage, rental and service business, a ski and wakeboard school, a retail store, and even a full service restaurant—The Boat House Bar & Restaurant and the Cobalt Lounge. Years ago, the Whowell Family established a corporate culture that stands strongly for giving back to the community, and over the years, Gordy’s has supported local
community activities, charities and those less fortunate through volunteerism, fund raising and donations. In addition to monetary gifts made annually to many organizations, including local churches, schools, water safety patrol, and clubs, Gordy’s donated over 30 acres
of land to the Geneva Lake Conservancy, and its business facilities are models to landscape beautification. So, my hat is off to all of you who are members of the “Gordy’s family.” That includes not only the members of
the Whowell Family, but also to everyone who has the good luck to work for, and with, Gordy’s in each of its business, family and societal efforts. Your example is much appreciated. Congratulations to you for your recent award, and continued good luck to you in the coming years.