Trey Berlin, senior vice president and general manager credited with growing Coburn’s Gulf Coast footprint, retired after 50 years of service to the company.

In 1972, while Berlin was still studying at Louisiana State University, he started work at Coburn’s Baton Rouge North Street location and later assumed the role of manager. At that same time, the still-young Trey was entrusted with overseeing the construction of the Airline branch, the first from-the-ground-up branch in Coburn’s history.

“To say that Trey has been hugely instrumental in developing the Baton Rouge footprint is an understatement," said Michael Maloney, executive vice president, Coburn Supply Co. "The success of our Airline branch is largely due to Trey’s vision. It’s why we asked him to expand further by overseeing the creation of several new branches, including those in the New Orleans market.”

Berlin was a founding member of Coburn’s vendor committee, the forerunner to the current general manager system. He will continue to serve on the company’s board of directors.

Coburn’s will miss Berlin's expertise, but most of all, his generous spirit. Colleagues describe him as a selfless friend to all in need, which was particularly evident after the 2016 flood when he worked to provide housing and other provisions to people affected by the disaster. Still others describe him as a mentor, willing to share his time and wisdom with those who asked for his guidance.

After so many years of service, Berlin intends to to enjoy his retirement fishing and spending time with his wife Tanna, children and grandchildren.