Family from left: Ryan White, Ivan White, Danielle and Layne Rumpf celebrate their patriarch for following his induction into the Auction Era Hall of Honour on Weds., Jan. 31. The event was held at the Western Development Museum in North Battleford. (Julia Lovett-Squires/battlefordsNOW staff)

By Julia Lovett-Squires

Auction Era

Honouring tradition: Ivan White among auctioneers inducted into the Saskatchewan Auctioneers Association Hall of Honour

Feb 1, 2024 | 3:00 PM

Ivan White had one word when describing the feelings of being inducted into the Auction Era Hall of Honour: Awesome.

The longtime member of the Saskatchewan Auctioneers Association (SAA) from North Battleford celebrated with his family during the event at the Western Development Museum on Weds., Jan. 31. His daughter Danielle Rumpf said they were excited.

“[We’re] very proud of him for sure with all of his accomplishments throughout the years and all the achievements,” she said.

Vice president of the SAA Kelly Clarke said the evening was about honouring tradition.

“Competition in the auction industry is what life’s all about,” he said.

Helping hand

Big red sleigh brings holiday spirit to kick off Battlefords Empty Stocking Fund

1h ago

Battlefords North Stars

Big performance from Maric ends Red Wings win streak

3h ago

Riderville

Shades of 2007

23h ago

“Everybody tries to find out a secret, everybody tries to find out what’s the newest greatest thing in the world,” added Clarke.

As the industry has changed over the years, he said Saskatchewan Auctioneers Association – now celebrating 50 years – the goal is to keep structure and professionalism in the forefront.

Clarke explained that the event, which takes place roughly every couple of years, brought together competitors, family, and friends all under one roof to induct and celebrate mentors and pioneers. This year, joining White as fellow inductees were Jason LeBlanc of Estevan and Barrie Jung of Melfort – the latter of whom could not attend in person.

The SAA’s longtime members: Des Plewman of Regina, Robert Ross, Ituna; Bruce Schapansky, Tisdale; Kelly Clarke, Lumsdon (Vice-Pres, SAA); Kelly Schneider, Medstead; Neil Kramer, North Battleford; Frederick Bodnarus, Saskatoon; Jamie Moore, Yorkton; Scott Johnstone, Moose Jaw; Dan Heslip, Regina and Myron Schmalz of Prince Albert help celebrate the 2024 inductees. (Julia Lovett-Squires/battlefordsNOW Staff)

White, who graduated from the Auctioneering Institute of Canada in 1991, said it took a lot of practice and dedication.

“I yodeled and yodeled and yodeled,” he said of the training techniques that also included riddles.

As the industry has changed to the online model, Clarke said the evening was also about embracing the excitement of the live auction.

“There’s a magic about it,” he said.

“Auctioneering has been around since 500 BC. It’s the oldest form of fairly trading anything,” Clarke added, noting that not much has changed over time in the live portion.

“It’s a passion, it’s a game, it’s competition and it’s about the thrill of the chase, the thrill of the hunt, and the comradery that comes with it all during the live auction and that’s why we’re here tonight.”

The evening was filled with laughter, stories, and more than a few tears but one thing came through: that of love. Love of the industry, love of the competition, and love for each other.

For White, his career, which spanned more than 20 years and included a term as SAA president, is something he and his family celebrate, and they did so together.

“Quite honoured,” added Rumpf.

—

julia.lovettsquires@pattisonmedia.com

On X: jls194864