What it is: Hempler's is a manufacturer of specialty hams, bacon, sausage and snack foods. The company also offers a line of no-nitrate meats using naturally grown Oregon beef. Locally, Hempler's products are offered at Haggen, The Markets and the Community Food Co-op. Dick Hempler currently is in charge of operations at the facility.
A family run business: Dick Hempler's father, Hans, came to the U.S. from Germany in 1927. He worked two jobs and "saved every penny," and in 1934, he started B.B. Meat and Sausage Co. In the 1980s, the company name was changed to Hempler's. Dick Hempler said he's been involved with the business since he was a small child and would work with his father during the summers when he wasn't in school. When his father retired, Dick Hempler took over the business.
Now, it's time for the next generation to lead Hempler's. Dick Hempler has been slowly transitioning away from the business, and his daughter, Kestin, and her husband, Marc Liberato, are stepping up.
"It's time to allow the younger folks to take over and do what they need to do," Hempler said.
To read the rest of the story, please go to: The Bellingham Herald