CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR RETIREES

The combined work of these five employees represents over 190 years of employment at Big Creek Lumber.

Four of them have worked more than half the years Big Creek has been in business. They are a testament to the fact that the backbone of Big Creek Lumber is our employees.

Louie Fusari – 46 Years

Louie started working for Big Creek on the logging crew, setting chokers as well as running tractors and skidders.

In 1985 he moved to the sawmill where he was a mechanic working on all kinds of equipment. He ultimately became our sawmill log scaler.

Louie has been a fixture at Big Creek, attended many company functions and a joy to work with!

Esther Rocha – 43 Years

Esther has worked for Big Creek since 1983. She started as a phone receptionist for our Watsonville Branch.

She also served as a cashier and did invoicing before becoming office manager and finally branch manager.

Esther has made many contributions to the company and will be remembered for her attention to detail and as an operations whiz.

Bob Berlage – 40 Years

Bob started working for Big Creek as a timber faller.

After 10 years in the woods he transitioned to forestry and company communications, including interacting with regulatory agencies and elected officials.

Bob has been a pleasure to work with, was the face of Big Creek Lumber at many events including the fan favorite, our Santa Cruz County Fair booth.

We thank them and wish them the best in their retirement!

Carlos De Lara – 47 Years

Carlos started at Big Creek’s sawmill at age 19 in 1979 and has many years of service with the company.

He’s worked a variety of production positions in the sawmill, wrapping up his career operating the debarker.

Carlos has shared many smiles and participated with his family in many company events.

Mike Robinson – 9 Years

Mike has been with Big Creek Lumber since 2017. There was a need for a Safety Manager and Mike came out of retirement to help our team.

Although Mike seems like he has been part of our team forever, he came after 30 years of service at UPS and prior to that he served in the United States Navy.

Mike notes that it has been pretty fulfilling working at Big Creek and we are thankful for the 9 years Mike has been on our team!

2026 SCHOLARSHIP

Applications are now open for the 2026 McCrary Family Scholarship. Big Creek Lumber is offering a one-time $2,000 award, with the opportunity to apply for a one-time renewal.

Since its inception, the scholarship has awarded $42,000 to local students, many of whom have received renewal support as they continue their education. The application period closes at 5:00 PM on Friday, April 24, 2026.

Founded in 1946 by Bud and Lud McCrary, Big Creek Lumber was built on hands-on experience and a commitment to lifelong learning. The brothers developed valuable skills through military service and continued expanding their knowledge in mechanical work, business, and forestry as they grew the company.

This scholarship honors their legacy by supporting students pursuing meaningful careers in skilled trades, forestry, and related fields.

To Learn more and apply, visit: www.bigcreeklumber/scholarships