UPDATE: In a significant shift for East Grand Forks, Earl L. Enright has officially sold the Enright Oil Company after an impressive 36-year tenure. The deal with the Farmers Cooperative Marketing Association will see operations transition on January 1, 1969, marking the end of an era for the local business leader.
This sale not only closes a pivotal chapter for Enright but also strengthens the cooperative’s role in the community. Enright, a former 12-year mayor and dedicated civic leader, expressed his pride in the East Grand Forks community, stating, “It’s a wonderful area to live in. We’ve never had a complete crop failure in the 36 years I’ve been in business.” His commitment to service has left a lasting impact, with many customers spanning generations.
Enright’s journey began with humble beginnings in 1944 when he opened a small oil business with just two pumps. Over the years, he expanded the operation significantly, eventually upgrading to a brick structure with 12 pumps and a fleet of service trucks. He emphasized the importance of service, stating, “I’ve always handled Cities Service products and have four full-time employees, two part-time, and an office manager. We’re open every day from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.”
As he transitions to semi-retirement, Enright plans to dedicate more time to his roles with the Red River Basin Committee and the upcoming 85-foot Huot Dam project, which aims to enhance flood control along the Red River. He has been integral to local flood prevention efforts and is optimistic about the project’s future developments.
“It’s been a slow developing project which has now advanced to the stage where borings will be obtained in January 1969 for the planned dam at Huot, Minnesota,” Enright stated. His leadership has also been crucial in local infrastructure improvements, including the paving of DeMers Avenue and the modernization of city services.
Born on a farm near East Grand Forks, Enright’s deep roots in the community are evident. He graduated from St. James High School and Union Commercial College, later working in various managerial roles before establishing his own business in 1932. He has been married to his wife, Lillian Morrisette, for 45 years, and they have four children and three grandchildren.
As East Grand Forks bids farewell to a distinguished businessman, the community looks forward to the continued positive impact of Enright’s civic engagement. The sale marks not just a personal milestone for Enright but also a pivotal moment for the local economy, ensuring the legacy of dedicated service and leadership endures.
Stay tuned for more updates on the transition of the Enright Oil Company and the upcoming developments in local infrastructure projects.
