Meadowvale President Steve Steinwart Retires: A Chapter Closes, a Legacy Remains

December 29, 2023 – Sandwich, Illinois

After an incredible 36-year journey with dairy mix manufacturer Meadowvale, President Steve Steinwart is bidding farewell as he embarks on a well-deserved retirement. Steve’s uncle, John Steinwart, founded Meadowvale in 1967. After working for International Dairy Queen in Mississippi, Steve officially began at Meadowvale in 1987 when he joined the company in sales, marking the inception of a remarkable career.

In 1990, Steve assumed the role of General Manager. Following the passing of founder and uncle, John Steinwart, in 1993, Steve transitioned into the position of President. Under his visionary leadership, Meadowvale has achieved numerous milestones, solidifying its status as a key player in the dairy mix industry.

Growth was first evident in 2008 with Meadowvale’s first expansion in Yorkville, Illinois, and a subsequent move to a new, 80,000 sq ft headquarters in Sandwich in 2018, driven by the company’s rapid growth. The company first produced 1,000,000 gallons of dairy mix in 2001. In 2023, Meadowvale produced 1,000,000 gallons in June alone.

“I have been truly blessed to be a part of Meadowvale for 36 years. We have a built a company that is long on teamwork, accountability, and encouragement. The future is bright because of the people here.” says Steve.

Steve has always been an advocate for a strong culture of wellbeing for employees. The company takes pride in having 20% of its staff who have remained dedicated for 15 or more years. Many employees have regarded Steve as a mentor, and his guidance will be genuinely missed. Reflecting on Steve’s impact, Amy Collins, CFO, who has worked closely with Steve since 1993, reflects, “Without a doubt Steve has left an incredible legacy, one that we can only hope to achieve. He’s been an incredible leader and friend to all and we want that legacy to live on here. That’s our goal!”

On December 1st, Meadowvale organized a surprise retirement celebration for Steve, bringing together not only Meadowvale’s employee-owners but also cherished partners and friends Steve has collaborated with throughout his 36-year career.

As Meadowvale bids farewell to a seasoned leader, Joe Gomoll, who joined the company in 2018, will be transitioning into the role of CEO. Steve is confident in Joe’s transition into the new role, “I have a tremendous amount of peace handing the reigns over to Joe Gomoll. He is a leader and a man of integrity. He has an outstanding team to lead and I look forward to watching from afar as they continue to build on their successes.”

With extensive experience in engineering and management, Joe has already played a crucial role in ensuring the seamless operation of Meadowvale’s facilities.

“I am honored and humbled to step into the role of CEO and build upon the incredible legacy left by Steve Steinwart,” remarked Joe Gomoll. “Steve’s guidance will serve as a valuable source of inspiration for Meadowvale’s current and future endeavors. With a commitment to quality, honesty, and integrity, we aim to build upon past successes, chart new territories, and ensure a prosperous future for Meadowvale and its customers.”

As Steve Steinwart begins his well-deserved retirement, Meadowvale expresses gratitude for his immeasurable contributions and looks forward to an exciting new chapter under the leadership of Joe Gomoll. Steve will remain connected to Meadowvale through his participation on the company’s Board of Directors. The company remains steadfast in its commitment to premium quality and continued growth in the dynamic realm of ice cream mix manufacturing.