Industry pays tribute as John Holtmann retires

John Holtmann thought the party was to thank suppliers and to recognize the 75th anniversary of Winnipeg’s Vita Health. Turns out the party was really to salute the Vita Health president and pay tribute to John’s 40-plus years with the organization.

He recently announced his retirement and many people made the journey to Winnipeg to attend the celebration, including family, friends, industry colleagues, suppliers, fellow retailers and former co-workers at Vita Health Manufacturing – the place John began his natural health career in 1970 as a summer job.

John spent most of 30 years in various positions at Vita Health – the company founded by his father-in-law, G. W. Seier – until the company’s manufacturing, distribution and retailing interests were sold to Leiner in the late 90s. Not long after, the Holtmann family purchased the retail portion of Vita Health back from Leiner, and John embarked on a new career path, turning a chain of supplement-focused stores into a food-focused business.

Along with his retail duties, John played a key role in the formation of the Health First Network and also spent time as a director of the Canadian Health Food Association, serving a term as the board’s chair.

When asked to address the gathering, John recalled his father-in-law with great fondness, calling him his mentor, and shared some stories of his early days with Vita. He thanked many people, recognizing those who have played an important role in his life.

As a retirement gift, his staff commissioned a painting of an original Vita Health store in Winnipeg’s Osborne Village.