O’SHEA’S ‘SECRET WEAPON’ RETIRES
For 26 years, Steve Hopper has served as O’Shea’s “utility player,” working in a variety of roles, and it’s a one he’s officially retired from. According to Mike O’Shea, Steve’s ability to fill different positions made him O’Shea’s “secret weapon.”
“Cardinals baseball fans know Jose Oquendo as ‘The Secret Weapon’ because in 1987 he played every position, except catcher. Ironically, the following year he actually did catch making him one of only a handful of players who achieved that in MLB. For O’Shea, Steve is our ‘Secret Weapon’ because he has worked in several different areas.”
Mike explained, “First, he took calls for Building Services and eventually filled the role of tradesman, foreman, carpenter, and superintendent, and for this reason, I’ve truly appreciated Steve’s willingness to take on any job that best serves O’Shea and the client,” he said.
As Steve closes the book on his construction career with O’Shea, he remembers what made his job so enjoyable and what he’ll miss the most. “There are some very talented tradesmen and women that work for us, and without them, we couldn’t do what we do every day. I was lucky enough to work with these guys and gals every day,” he said.
He continues, “Besides working with the best teams around, I’ll also miss the challenges of getting a project finished and the daily interaction with the owners and subs.”
While his career is slowing down, Steve has big goals for the future that’ll keep him busy. He plans to ride his motorcycle across the Trans America Trail coast to coast in September, spend more time with his family, and eventually build a house on a farm in Oklahoma. Steve’s future looks bright, but he’ll always be thankful for his time at O’Shea.
“I feel very fortunate to have worked for O’Shea all these years. I’ve always felt welcomed and appreciated by Bud, Mike, and the other employees. From the early days at 10 1/2 Street to now, it’s been fun to watch the growth and changes, and I can honestly say it’s been a privilege to have been a part of it,” he said.
Best wishes to Steve and his next great ride into retirement!