Don Lanteigne Retires From Orkin Canada After 50 Years

MISSISSAUGA, Ontario — Don Lanteigne started in pest control in 1975 with what he thought would be a summer job after high school, he has decided to retire after 50 years in the industry.

 

Lanteigne started with a company called Richardson’s Extermination, a small family business. After ten years there, the company was purchased by PCO Services, and then later by Orkin Canada.

“It’s been a long journey and a great career, with no looking back,” he said. “Not too many people get the opportunity to work at a job for this long and still really enjoy it. What I like most is that I’ve been able to grow with the company and develop over the years.”

When he first started, Lanteigne worked as a technician for 10 years in Toronto where he specialized as a termite technician. He later became a service manager and progressed to branch manager of the Toronto East location. Following that role, he served as a regional manager for around 15 years before transitioning into training.

“Probably one of the most fulfilling roles I’ve ever had is being the learning and development manager,” he said.

The industry has changed over Lanteigne’s 50 years of involvement. Lanteigne noted an increased focus on training and safety. Throughout his time in the industry, Lanteigne said the company has supported him both personally and professional. He said he was fortunate to have real mentors throughout his career.

“When I first joined PCO, my branch manager Tom Pellerin taught me how to be a people person and how to work without letting things get personal,” Lanteigne said. “When I moved into management, Tim O’Grady taught me how to think things through, implement ideas, and lead while still remaining approachable. Gary Muldoon, as president, also made a lasting impact. Even today, my current manager Sean Rollo continues to challenge me.”

Lanteigne said if it wasn’t for this job and the opportunities it provided, he wouldn’t have been able to raise two daughters and provide a good living for his family.

“The ability to grow within the company and build a meaningful career made all the difference,” he said. “The legacy I want to leave behind is simply that Don was good at what he did and that he was always approachable and always there for people.”

Lanteigne retired from Orkin Canada on April 10.