Written By Olena Riznyk
STRATHROY – A large crowd of friends, colleagues, customers and community members gathered on Saturday January 24th at The Balcony Cucina Restaurant & Bar to mark the retirement of Don Windsor, longtime owner of Ricco Foods and Ricco Cash & Carry Stores.
Windsor established his food distribution company in 1990, initially supplying pizzerias before expanding in 1998 to serve full-service restaurants and bakeries across Southwestern Ontario. What began as a focused distribution effort gradually developed into a broader operation serving a wide range of food businesses, while maintaining a strong emphasis on reliability, customer relationships and personal service.
Reflecting on his retirement, Windsor described the transition simply: “It’s okay–it’s time.” He noted that customer care had always guided his work, adding, “Look after the customers.” Several attendees said this approach helped shape both the company culture and the long-standing relationships the business built over the years.
Those who worked alongside Windsor often highlight not only his business leadership but also his generosity. Pauline Vander Heide, a former employee at Ricco Cash & Carry, said working in a smaller business environment allowed closer relationships with customers than in larger retail settings. She described Windsor as “a good man–very giving and very generous in helping people.”
Strathroy-Caradoc Mayor Colin Grantham, who attended the event, acknowledged Windsor’s role in supporting local initiatives and community events over many years. He described Windsor as someone who consistently gave back, noting that community celebrations and activities frequently benefited from his support. According to Grantham, contributions like this help strengthen the connections that define smaller communities.
The company will continue under new ownership, with Suellen Lobb and Andy Vivian taking leadership roles. Lobb expressed appreciation for the strong foundation Windsor created while looking ahead to the company’s future. She said the intention is to continue growing the business while maintaining its focus on relationships, service and community involvement.
For Don Windsor’s wife, Sylvia Windsor, the milestone is also deeply personal. She has supported his work throughout the years and expressed pride in his dedication, particularly his willingness to help others whenever possible.
As he steps away from daily business operations, Windsor offered a simple message of gratitude: “Thank you for supporting us.”
For Don and Sylvia Windsor, the transition now offers more time together after years shaped by business responsibilities–a new season following a career defined by steady work, generosity and lasting connections across the region and beyond.
