Celebrating the Tradition of Dedication
Texas Border Businesses
Roberto Hugo Gonzalez
Gustavo “Gus” Espinoza’s journey with Bert Ogden Auto Group began in 1987 when his brother Willie, who was already there, invited him to join the company. Gus accepted, and so began a successful 37-year career. As he reflects on his time with the company, Gus’ story is one of dedication, family ties and the lasting impact of exceptional leadership.
Born and raised in Edinburg, Gus has always had deep roots in the community. On June 8, 2024, he celebrated his 37th anniversary of service with Bert Ogden Auto Group, a milestone that highlights his dedication to the company. Hired by Bert Ogden himself, Gus fondly remembers Bert and Dorothy Ogden. “She was a really lovely lady,” Gus recalls. “She always looked out for me and I was always helping her with paperwork and moving stuff.”
Gus’ brother, Guillermo “Willie” Espinoza, played a key role in Gus’ decision to join the company. At the time, Gus was working at Roy’s Imports in McAllen. His assistant, Gilbert Valadez, encouraged Gus to give Bert Ogden a try. Sadly, Willie was later killed in a car accident, but his impact on Gus’ career remains significant.
Gus shared his memories of Bert and Dorothy, highlighting Bert’s organizational skills and work ethic. “Bert was such a nice guy, I couldn’t believe he remembered where everything was,” says Gus. Whether he was searching for a particular socket in a crowded shed or performing various tasks around the dealership, Bert’s energy and meticulous nature left an indelible impression on Gus.
Bert’s tradition of hard work and dedication is evident in the current leadership of Bob and Janet Wacker, and Gus appreciates their kindness and strong leadership. “Janet is very kind to me, and so is Bob. They’re both really kind,” he says, praising the continuity of caring and respect in the company’s culture. The Wackers’ decision to close the dealership for Willie’s funeral so everyone could attend is an act Gus deeply values and reflects the company’s dedication to treating its employees like family.
Gus is passionate about his work in the Parts department and has remained that way throughout his tenure. He enjoys mentoring employees and helping them grow. “I’ve always loved working in the Parts department. I enjoy working with the employees, helping them and teaching them,” he explains. Despite the challenges and occasional stress, Gus’ dedication remains unwavering.
Despite having hip surgery the previous May, Gus didn’t stay away from work for long. His doctor recommended a month off, but he didn’t want to let the paperwork pile up, so he returned to work after just a few days. “I thought if I took too many days off, I’d have a pile of paperwork on my desk when I came back,” he says with a laugh, but now acknowledges that he will need to have another operation.
Gus’ personal life is also filled with long-lasting relationships. He speaks fondly of his common-law wife, Vivian Torres, and remembers his first wife, Ima, to whom he was married for 28 years. There’s no doubt that the support of his family has been the foundation of his long and successful career.
Gus Espinoza reflects on his 37-year career with Bert Ogden Auto Group, sharing insights into his professional life as well as his family life and challenges. His story remains one of dedication and deep gratitude for the support system around him.
Gus is the proud father of two daughters. His oldest daughter, Yvonne, is 44 and works as a teacher in Harlingen. Yvonne has given Gus two granddaughters. His youngest daughter, Jessica, just turned 38 and is a teacher in the Edinburgh community. All of his daughters and grandchildren live relatively close by in Harlingen.
Gass has faced numerous challenges during his long tenure with Bert Ogden Auto Group. One of the most significant issues has been dealing with backordered parts, a situation exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and industry strikes, disrupting production and supply chains. “It’s hard to explain to them: We can’t get it. We’re doing our best to get it from other dealerships,” Gass explains, pointing to the frustration of meeting customer expectations and pressure from general and service managers. These supply chain disruptions have created stressful times, making it difficult to meet demand and maintain the high standards expected at Bert Ogden.
Despite these challenges, Gus is very satisfied with his job; he looks forward to coming to work every day, even during his holidays. This dedication is also evident in his efforts to mentor Rose, a secretary who works as an inventory clerk. “She’s learning a lot; she knows more than I do,” Gus says proudly. His goal is to have Rose well prepared to take over as parts manager when he steps down, emphasizing his dedication to his role and the future of the department.
At 66, Gus remains youthful and energetic, but jokes that his hearing was impaired after he was in an airbag accident two years ago. The accident damaged his eardrum, and despite consulting an ear specialist, he was told the only treatment was surgery. Still, Gus maintains a positive mindset and a strong work ethic.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Gus enjoys many hobbies, including hunting. His passion for life and his work is clear, and his loyalty to Bert Ogden Auto Group remains constant.
Gus is extremely grateful for the support of his dealership representatives, Janet and Bob Wacker. “Janet and Bob have been so accommodating and helped me resolve some issues I’ve had, and I’m very grateful,” he says. Their kindness and assistance have had a profound impact on his life and reinforced the family-like atmosphere that characterizes the company.
Gus Espinoza’s story is one of extraordinary dedication and gratitude. His 37 years with Bert Ogden Auto Group reflect his dedication to his job and the strong bonds he formed with his coworkers and company leadership. Throughout his journey, Gus has remained an inspirational figure who embodies the values of hard work, mentorship and gratitude for the support of others.
Roberto Hugo Gonzalez is the 2009 SBA Journalist of the Year Award winner and a Paul Harris Award winner in both 2009 and 2012. He currently publishes Texas Border Business and Mega Doctor News, and past publications include McAllen City Magazine, Texas Border Digest, CBS Chronicle, Health Care Services Guide, Winter Texan Tour Guide and MegaMetropolis.
