Local couple auctions off memorabilia

By Melissa Piche Times Contributor

Dan and Donna Specht hosted an online auction in late September, selling off their impressive lifelong collection of John Deere models and collectibles.  

The longtime residents of Strathmore said that their John Deere collectible online auction had over 110,000 hits on the auction website and the couple featured was even featured on Global News. 

Their goal was to sell everything and have nothing left over.

“It was one and done,” said Donna.

Don worked for John Deere for 61 years between Saskatchewan and Alberta. 

When asked what did he did for John Deere? 

“Everything,” said Dan. He’s been everything from a mechanic to a business owner, sales and even customer service. “I knew the business inside and out so I could do any of it.”

To this day Dan still gets calls from people looking to his expertise in the John Deere brand. The square baler is the piece of machinery he is most recognized for. He said the newer mechanics aren’t well versed on the older models, and this is where Dan steps in. 

“In fact, there was a fella who phoned and asked if I had a square baler in the auction,” said Dan. 

He remembers this person years back had a square baler that they never thought would get running again. Dan took a look at it, used his skills and years of experience and got it working.

Their collection is just one aspect of this community-driven couple. Both Dan and Donna have been members of the Lions Club, totaling 37 years. In Strathmore they tallied in an impressive 26 years with the club. 

“I was president and I did all their catering for a while,” said Dan of the numerous roles he played in the Strathmore Lions Club over the years. 

“We worked everything together,” said Donna of her supportive role that she played helping out whenever possible. 

The couple is also heavily involved with the Strathmore Handi-Bus.

“We are both still on the board. I drove the handi-bus for 25 years,” said Donna “I loved it. I loved my clients. They were absolutely awesome and that is one thing I am passionate about.

“It’s a service that this town does need. And anytime they needed me, I was there. We’re getting up there (in age) where it’s time to let somebody else have the jobs.” 

The pair met in Trochu where Dan was working at the John Deere dealership. Donna was a regular in the small town and “the rest is history,” said Donna. 

Their love of all things John Deere started right from the beginning of their relationship. Instead of more traditional gifts over the years, Donna was gifted John Deere memorabilia, such as a John Deere watering can. 

They’ve even been known to gift John Deere models as wedding gifts in the past. 

“They wanted a tractor, so we give ‘em a tractor,” laughed Donna. 

There were many tears shed on letting their lifelong collection go, but Donna hopes that “anybody that bought it, I hope they treasure our treasures like we did and enjoy it.” 

The couple wanted to extend their heartfelt thank you and appreciation to the Frank McInenly Auction Company. 

“We are very thankful,” said Donna. “They made the sale what it was.”