Wheaton World Wide Moving held its fifth annual Van Line Summit & Awards Gala on Thursday, February 29, during which Wheaton Vice President of Operations Kevin Miller announced Edward “Ed” Sopko as the winner of the van line’s annual Lifetime Achievement award. The distinguished recognition acknowledges the recipient’s enduring dedication, accomplishments and substantial contributions with the moving and storage industry and highlights Sopko’s long-term commitment to excellence and the impactful role he has played in shaping and advancing the industry.
Ed & Kathy Sopko
At the heart of Sopko’s journey is his support system, anchored by his wife Kathy and daughter Lauren. From humble beginnings, Sopko’s path to excellence began at the tender age of six, as he diligently assisted his father in the moving business, cleaning warehouses and learning the ropes.
By the time he turned 18, Sopko embarked on his driving career, a journey that would span an impressive 45 years and counting. Armed with his CDL, the award-winning driver has navigated the highways and byways, accumulating over 2 million miles of safe and reliable travel. His tenure, marked by a decade-plus with Olympia Moving & Storage, an interstate agent for Wheaton World Wide Moving, reflects not only his dedication but also his unwavering commitment to excellence.
“Over the 16 years I have had the privilege of working with and knowing Ed, I have also come to know him as a friend. His guidance, advice, and unwavering support have been invaluable to me and countless others,” said Piet Gauchat, president of Olympia Moving & Storage. “Ed’s refusal to accept defeat, his relentless optimism, and his unwavering commitment to excellence serve as an inspiration to us all.”
Beyond the confines of the road, Sopko’s passions extend to the great outdoors, where he finds solace in camping adventures and the thrill of sporting events, passionately supporting his beloved Jets and Yankees. An avid cyclist and devoted fish enthusiast, Sopko finds joy in the simple pleasures of life, always eager to explore new horizons and embrace the wonders of travel.
Sopko’s stellar record is not only evident in his mileage but also in his exceptional customer experience survey scores, a testament to his unwavering professionalism and dedication to customer satisfaction. But perhaps most remarkable is the vast network of friendships he has cultivated, spanning every corner of the country and industry.
“Ed’s lifelong driver’s hard work and quality service over the past 45 years have earned the van line numerous repeat and referral customers,” said A.J. Schneider, president of Wheaton World Wide Moving. “He is a valuable member of the Wheaton team and is highly deserving of the Lifetime Achievement award.”
Congratulations, Ed, and thank you for all you do!
