Celebrating 38 Years of Dedication: A Tribute to Dean Bakner’s Career

Recently, we had the honor of celebrating the retirement of Dean Bakner, Sales Applications Engineer, with an employee luncheon. It was a special occasion dedicated to recognizing his 38 years of exceptional service to WIKA Mobile Control.

Dean’s career started at Grove Worldwide, where he gained hands-on experience building and testing cranes in the shop. This early experience served as the foundation for his successful path in the crane industry. He later was hired by KRÜGER in their Sales Department, and when PAT acquired KRÜGER, Dean’s commitment and expertise continued. Several acquisitions later, Dean continued as Sales Applications Engineer for WIKA Mobile Control. For nearly four decades, Dean has been a steadfast presence, bringing a wealth of knowledge and skill to every task, with a focus on customer service.

His experience, coupled with his dedication and commitment to excellence, has truly made an impact. Dean’s passion for putting customers first has been the cornerstone of his work ethic and has set a standard that will be an inspiration for years to come.

Throughout his career, Dean has worn many hats—co-worker, mentor, and friend. His support and guidance have been invaluable, and his positive influence extends beyond professional achievements to create a lasting, personal impact on his colleagues. He has truly been a friend to many, offering both professional mentorship and personal support when needed.

As we bid Dean farewell, we want to express our gratitude for his loyalty, dedication, and the legacy he leaves behind. His hard work has made a positive impact on everyone he worked with, and his contributions will continue to resonate for years to come. Dean, thank you for everything you’ve done, and we wish you all the best in this well-deserved next chapter of your life!