Our People: Military retiree man of many hats

Bill Guhrke was raised in Phoenix. He joined the Air Force and was stationed at Cannon Air Force Base at age 19 from 1980-1983. Guhrke traveled the world over the 10 years following the three years at Cannon. Then, he was stationed a second time at Cannon from 1993 to 2000, when he retired after 20 years and 7 months of service. Guhrke said he retired on a Friday and went to work in auto sales the following Monday.

He has worn many hats in his 17-year career in auto sales, from customer to public relations. Today he is a sales and fleet manager. He enjoys woodworking, sports, outdoor activities and spending time with his family. He is married to Kiki Guhrke. They have three children and five grandchildren.

What do you like about your job?

I enjoy working with the public. Everyday is a new experience and a new challenge.

What don't you like about your job?

Sometimes the hours can get long.

What's your idea of a perfect day?

Waking up, eating a good meal and going to work with everything going my way. A good day of work is watching people drive off excited when they take delivery of their new vehicle.

What's your favorite TV show, past and present?

I like the Chicago franchise: "Chicago Fire," "Chicago P.D.," "Chicago Med," etc. Those are really good. I don't like the reality shows except for the talent based ones like "America's Got Talent." The past shows I liked as a kid would be "Lost in Space" and "Gilligan's Island." But mostly I spent time outside.

When you were a kid, what did you think you'd be doing as an adult?

I always thought I'd be a wood shop teacher. I like remodeling. It's a hobby of mine today. I like dealing with home improvement and doing yard work. Today, friends of mine joke that if it starts storming, the first thing I'll do is throw a big black blanket to cover my yard.

What's so great about your favorite sport?

It's football and I have two answers why: Dallas and Cowboys.

What's your favorite taste?

Red (strawberry) licorice.

What's your favorite smell?

Fresh cut lawn.

Tell us about your greatest individual accomplishment?

I've got a few. In the car industry, we were the recipients of two consecutive Ford Presidents Awards which are the highest awards given for customer satisfaction. Those were the years I was hired to oversee customer relations and so I am glad to have been recognized. In the Air Force, upon retirement, I received a retirement box depicting the 20 years I served; a shadow box of pictures and memorabilia. A flag was designated and flown on my behalf and is now folded and placed in my retirement box.

- Compiled by CMI Correspondent D'Nieka Hartsfield