It is with mixed feelings that the Prairie Co-op Board of Directors announces the retirement of Chris Paradis, General Manager. Chris is planning his retirement for June 30, 2022. After his years of dedicated service, Chris has set his sights on a well-deserved retirement to spend more time with family and friends.

Chris’ career in the CRS spans 34 years. In 1988, he started as the Service Station/Bulk Petroleum Manager with Wynyard Co-op. In 1989, he went to Pineland Co-op @ Codette as the Farm Supply Manager. He then moved into the role of General Manager of several Co-ops: Watrous Co-op in 1995; Naicam Co-op in 2000; Spalding Co-op in 2000; finally moving into his role of General Manager of Prairie Co-op in 2004, where he has stayed for the last 18 years.

During this time, Prairie Co-op saw a lot of changes: amalgamations with Lipton Co-op, Diamond Co-op (Ituna and Kelliher), and Cupar Co-op; three major projects in Fort Qu’Appelle — a new Food Store, creation of a Home Centre, and a cardlock; the expansion of the Melville Gas Bar’s C-Store and the addition of a carwash; the construction of a new Ag & Home Centre in Cupar; the acquisition of Viterra sites in both Strasbourg and Cupar; and most recently, the construction of both a new Food store and a new Home Centre in Melville.

Reflecting on his time with Prairie Co-op, Chris wrote:

“When I arrived in September 2004, I would never have imagined the journey that I have been on with Prairie Co-op during the past 18 years. I have had tremendous boards to work with, fantastic team leaders, and great team members during this time. The successes that we have achieved together are unparalleled, and we can all be very proud of the Co-operative that has been built, successes achieved, and the future of Prairie Co-op. It has been a privilege to lead Prairie Co-op, and I look forward to watching Prairie continue to grow in the future.”

The Board would like to thank Chris for his years of dedication and know that his leadership and many contributions added to the success of Prairie Co-op.

Please join us in wishing Chris and his family all the best in his retirement!