Bruce McCorkle
Growing up in a small West Texas town of 12,000 people didn’t hinder Ross Serold’s success. He worked in his parents’ Home and Auto store and played trombone in his high school band… and is the March IMGA Golfer of the Month.
After high school, he found that New Orleans was quite an “eye-opener” for this small-town young man as he earned degrees in chemistry and math at Tulane University.
Graduating from college, he went to work for 3M Company in St. Paul, MN, whose motto is “We apply science in collaborative ways to improve lives daily.” And collaborate he did. In his 36-1/2 years with 3M, Ross had seven distinctly different assignments, ranging from product development chemist to plant manager to head of manufacturing for three business units. In addition, he lived in Singapore and worked with 10 countries in Asia to improve their abilities to manufacture many 3M products for sale in their countries. With a twinkle in his eye, Ross jokes that he “couldn’t hold a steady job.”
He and his wife Kathy have two children and six grandchildren, and after being snowbirds for four years, permanently relocated to Sun Lakes from St. Paul in 2011.
In speaking with Ross, you immediately get the impression that he is a humble, talented and competent individual who is grateful for good health, a wonderful supportive wife and family and many good friends, not only in Sun Lakes, but all over the world.
He and Kathy give back to the community and help others with relocations, e.g., to the Renaissance, and disposal of their property. He also watches houses for friends who are not here full time. He likes to play with their five-year-old grandson who lives in Fulton Ranch, golf in IMGA and MOGA and private groups, play trivia, cards and social games with friends, attend musicals at local venues and travel. Ross has recently assumed the position of Secretary for IMGA… and we are very grateful!
I asked Ross if he had any advice for a successful life that he might pass on to younger people. He responded, “Be patient. Know your strengths and weaknesses. Be humble. Work hard. Recognize that politics are a reality in every arena. Enjoy life. Marry an understanding wife.”
Thank you, Ross (and Kathy), for what you do for our community. We wish you continued health and prosperity!