Longtime advertising representative to leave Southeast Missourian

Thirty-six years in the same occupation could feel like an eternity for some businessmen, but for longtime Southeast Missourian advertising representative Elmer Schetter, his time at the publication has flashed by all too quickly.

His career at the newspaper will come to a close June 6 when he retires from a business he'd rather call a family.

"The worst part about retiring will be [leaving] the relationships I've built throughout the years both here at the Southeast Missourian and with those advertisers I've dealt with," Schetter said. "Those long-lasting relationships will be something that I can take away from this job once I leave."

A native of Chaffee, Mo., Schetter worked at a variety of businesses before the Southeast Missourian, including the Navy and railroad industry. Schetter met his wife, Sandra, in April 1963, when he was working in the accounting office at McDonald Aircraft in St. Louis. The couple were married by November 1963.

In November 1967, Schetter began his career with the Southeastern Missourian. With the exception of a five-year stint as manager of the Cape Girardeau Kmart, Schetter worked as an advertising representative almost four decades. Schetter's primary customer base has been car dealerships.

Those who know him best said his dedication to the company and his customers is priceless.

"He's one of the most dedicated people to his customers and is so good to them," said Jo Rodgers, customer service representative at Concord Printing in Cape Girardeau. "I've known him for 35 years and have never heard a customer say a negative comment about him."

Though he'll miss working with advertisers, Schetter is looking forward to spending more time with his wife, three children and eight grandchildren. He also hopes to continue his hobbies, which include antiquing and selling a wide variety of items on eBay.

bblackwell@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 137