09/04/2026
My Dear Marks Waste Removal Family. I am posting a copy of a letter that went out today. I wanted to share a copy here as well in case there are people who are not at their residence right now and will not receive mail. We did also send via email, but I was not sure if we had everyone’s email address. Please take the time to read it. If you would like my new personal number once I receive one, please reach out to my personal page/messenger. I pray you hear my heart in this letter, and it helps to explain why there are rumors of me selling, yet I’m still out there picking up! I will continue to be out there every week picking you up! God bless you all!
Dear Friends,
This letter will likely be the most difficult of letters we have ever had to send our customers. We want you to know that we have agonized over writing it. We have done everything we could possibly do to prolong it, making sure we have left no stone unturned in our decision-making process. We have prayed over this, researched, observed, and sought advice from wise mentors in the business and in our personal relationships. We are at complete peace with our decision outside of the normal angst involved with change.
As many of you know, I have been struggling with health issues for the past two years. A year ago, I finally had the back surgery I have needed for far too long. I have an appointment coming up in September with a surgeon to schedule another surgery. My other driver is getting close to retirement, and has loyally hung in there with me. However, his time here is short. Mark's Waste Removal continues to grow, but my team remains small. You have seen what can happen when one truck goes down in need of repairs. We do our best, we get it fixed, but it means working around the clock to get caught up again. This has taken a toll on my equipment and my body over the years. Many of you have also been on the long journey with us as our daughter, Shayna's health continues to deteriorate. Spending precious time with her and helping in her care is another priority for me right now.
I have been approached about selling many times. I have even come close to doing it a time or two. Usually only in the midst of a rough week. I have never followed through. My guys and my community mean much to me.
I have watched new companies come and go. I have tried to remain faithful in pricing and service. I am not perfect and have certainly failed you all probably more times than I care to count. However, my intentions were to always take good care!
I have a friend in the business who owned a company in Muskegon. A very large and successful waste removal company. After many years he partnered with another company. That is how I was introduced to the owners of Arrowaste. During hard times the owners of this business did not hesitate to step up to help. They offered help by way of trucks when mine were down, manpower, equipment, encouragement, advice, etc... All of this was happening before their interest in purchasing our company. Many of you saw my post regarding Arrow sending one of their guys and a truck up to give me a week (which turned into two) off to rest and recuperate an injury before my daughter's wedding. That was not "just a guy". That was one of the owners. He drove over an hour at 2:00 am to come do my routes so I was able to take care of myself and my family. That is not a big company mentality. That is Oceana County. I have quietly been watching these guys for a long time. They follow their trucks around to make sure their customers are being taken care of properly. They have employee appreciation incentives and events on a regular basis. They hold to the same morals and beliefs that we do. This is important to me.
When I was first approached about partnering with them, I was very hesitant. After many long discussions we have decided on a way that allows me to partner with them and continue caring for my community, but with their support. Despite rumors, social media, and speculation, I am not selling out. I am partnering with a good company, and good people. They will be purchasing the business, but in that transaction, I will be staying on and handling my routes in this area. The only thing that will change for all of you is the name on the invoice. They have also offered each of my employees a job and an incentive to join me! I pray you consider trusting me as you have so many times in the past, in giving this company a chance. I can't speak for them all, but I can speak for the owners and I know it's important to them that you are well taken care of! It has been our honor and privilege to service you for the past 28 years. You are family.
Love,
Mark Fessenden and the Mark's Waste Removal Family
