With an admirable work ethic and a kind, authentic personality that's as unique as the spelling of her first name (i.e., the o is pronounced with a short e sound, kind of like in the name "Sharon"), Karon Rutsch has made quite an impact on her coworkers and customers since she joined Warner Communications in 1995.

Now officially retired after nearly 30 years of dedication and service at the company, Karon leaves behind an impressive legacy and a lot of good memories.

Several of Karon's family members and past and present coworkers gathered last week in St. Louis for a celebration luncheon in her honor that was full of laughter and tears.

A recurring theme appeared as we reminisced and watched a special tribute video that featured appearances from several people from her time at Warner Communications. It became evident from testimony after testimony that Karon had always tried to go above and beyond in everything she'd done, and that she genuinely cared about her customers, family, friends, and the people with whom she'd spent so much time in the workplace.

Longtime coworker and friend Corrie Kahl had this to say to Karon in honor of her retirement:

"You've had so many accomplishments over [the past 29] years. You've contributed to paving the way for women in this industry. You've been top salesperson multiple times. You ran the customer service department for years. You're our party planner, and so much more!

"You and I have been in each other's lives for 26 years. You're not just my friend, but you're also my family!"

Steve Guller, Warner Family Brands president and son of Warner Communications cofounder Arthur Guller, added:

"I just don't know what to say to someone who's meant so much to me and the organization.

"You've been a customer service rep... a manager of customer service... a service tech at times when we needed someone to jump in... a salesperson... and you've jumped in as a service manager.

"Everything we've needed, you've taken and done with the care and friendliness you always portrayed to everyone in the organization."

In the final moments of the video, Steve confidently speaks for everyone who's had the privilege of knowing and working alongside Karon when he says, "Everyone loves and cares for you, and we all want your future to be happy, healthy, and successful."

Karon worked diligently before her retirement to make sure that all of her customers are now in the capable hands of our team at Warner Communications.

Got a question for our team? Please reach out and let us know.