Scan10006
 
  • Scan10006
    “The highest reward for a person's toil is not what they get for it, but what they become by it.” --John Ruskin

Walt Mountain

Walt Mountain was a meticulous craftsman, and chose to be a tile setter quite early in his life. When he arrived to the Coval House in the late 1980’s, Walt already had decades of experience under his belt, and quickly took to mentoring the team of young and enthusiastic craftsmen who surrounded him. He set the standard for both the jobsite work ethic and the spirit of craftsmanship. While at times crusty and direct, Walt was at heart a gentle soul, and would generously share his wisdom and experience with the younger people trying to find their way as craftsmen. He was beloved by his personal apprentices, and respected by his peers.

His imposing stature was delightfully softened when, at an early Coval holiday party, Walt revealed his love of dancing. He was as remarkable on his toes as he was on his knees. On a Monday in the early 1990’s, Walt did not show up to work. He had died of a heart attack the day before. His apprentice laid his remaining tiles, and his presence and support was deeply missed by everyone.