CNYRLDA Annual Dinner

Mark DeWitt’s journey in the lumber industry began during his junior and senior years of high school, when he immersed himself in the building trades. His passion for construction caught the eye of his father, who introduced him to a reputable local builder. This initial connection led to a partnership that ignited Mark’s career in the industry.

Throughout his career, Mark worked with various companies, starting as a self-employed contractor. He then joined Cortland Glass Co. as a commercial glazer, traveling for nine years. Mark’s dedication to his family led him to a position at Builders Best Home Improvement Center, where he started as an estimator and salesman. Quickly, he advanced to department manager and then became general manager, overseeing two stores in Cortland and Ithaca for 17 years. For the past 16 years, Mark has proudly served as the first-generation owner of Baker Miller Lumber, Inc. Notably, his daughter, Alicia, joined the company fresh out of college, and they continue to work together to this day.

Mark DeWitt’s involvement in the industry and NRLA and CNYRLDA has resulted in numerous friendships. He cherishes the connections he has made with coworkers, customers, vendors, product representatives, fellow lumber dealers, business affiliates, spouses, and family members.

Mark’s professional milestones and achievements include winning the Vocational Industrial Clubs of America 1st Place Award for carpentry and cabinetmaking skills in 1981, as well as the Building Trades Golden Hammer Award in the same year. In 2007, he became a first-generation lumber dealer, a significant accomplishment in an industry known for its challenges.

While Mark does not hold a formal college degree, he has undergone extensive training in retail business management. He also proudly graduated as one of the first Certified Building Materials Specialists from NRLA.

Mark DeWitt has been an active member of the CNYRLDA board for more than 25 years, holding various positions such as secretary, treasurer, vice president, and president. Within NRLA, he has served on the board and several committees, showcasing his dedication to the industry. Additionally, Mark served as a board member for Reserve Supply for several years and has been a longstanding member of the BPOE Elks for over three decades.

Mark DeWitt fondly remembers being an Easter baby in 1963, a year that saw the assassination of President Kennedy and numerous civil rights protests. He was born in Auburn, N.Y.

Mark’s childhood memories are deeply intertwined with growing up on a dairy farm and being exposed to the hard work and responsibility that came with it. Occasionally, he would escape to the lake with his grandmother, creating cherished moments amid the demanding farm life.

Mark is the second oldest of six brothers, and he and his wife Tammi celebrated their ninth wedding anniversary after meeting during a snowmobiling adventure. He has two daughters, Alicia and Jenni, a stepdaughter named Heidi, three grandchildren, and another on the way.

In his free time, Mark is an avid enthusiast of water-related activities such as fishing, water skiing, and boating, often spending quality family time at Owasco Lake. He also enjoys hunting, biking, and traveling. Coin collecting is a lifelong hobby he picked up at the tender age of six, inspired by his grandmother.

Mark is a devoted Christian with a strong faith and draws inspiration from his mentors, including Jesus, Pastor Archie Smith, and his beloved Grandma Augst.

Mark DeWitt’s philosophy of life is centered on kindness, positivity, and generosity. He encourages others to forgive the unforgivable and to let go of unnecessary worries, emphasizing that anger only hurts oneself. In parting words, he advises, “do things out of kindness, not for the recognition.”