The Bridge Between the Past & Future: Celebrating 80 Years of RoMac Building Supply

For eighty years, RoMac Building Supply has stood as more than a lumberyard — it’s been a cornerstone of community, craftsmanship, and character. As we celebrate this milestone, CEO Don Magruder reflects on what makes RoMac special, how far we’ve come, and the values that will guide us into the future.

From Humble Beginnings to a Life’s Purpose

“I fell in love with the smell of lumber and plywood as a kid,” Don recalls. His father, a house painter in North Mississippi, often took him to the local lumber yard. “I always thought it was just a neat place to go.”

That childhood fascination grew into a lifelong purpose. Twenty-eight years ago, RoMac Building Supply invited Don to help lead a respected local company through a pivotal transformation — from its traditional roots into a modern, community-driven enterprise.

“It was a great company,” Don says, “but it was a company trying to bridge the past and the future. I felt like I could be that bridge.”

Investing in People, Not Just Products

Unlike national corporations, RoMac’s ownership — and its heart — are firmly rooted in Lake County. “We’re part of this community,” Don explains. “The reason why we’ve grown is because we’ve invested in people.”

At RoMac, opportunity isn’t limited to titles or résumés. Many of today’s leaders began as installers or yard hands. Don saw potential in them — and gave them the tools to grow.

“We harness that potential,” he says. “We make plans, we call a play, and then I let people execute the play. We don’t tap down good ideas.”

That trust in people has built a company culture where innovation and initiative thrive. Every employee understands where the company is headed — and why customer service comes first.

Doing the Hard Things

“What differentiates RoMac from other people?” Don asks. “We do the hard things that other people won’t — or can’t — do.”

That simple philosophy defines RoMac’s work ethic. Everyone “loads the truck,” meaning no one is above doing what it takes to serve the customer. From the sales counter to the yard, teamwork and accountability drive every interaction.

“Customer service is about being proactive,” Don explains. “We strive to make every customer happy. Whether you buy five 2x4s or five thousand, you’re just as important because you’re trusting us with your hard-earned money.”

A Legacy of Purpose and Progress

Eighty years in, RoMac isn’t resting on tradition — it’s building on it. “What I’m most proud of,” Don says, “is that no one’s satisfied. Everybody wants to do better. Everyone wants to serve the customer better. Everyone’s asking, ‘What else?’”

That relentless drive for improvement is the heartbeat of RoMac’s next chapter. And for Don, it’s also personal.

“When I’m gone,” he reflects, “I hope people say, ‘Don Magruder gave me a shot that no one else would.’ That’s the legacy I want.”

Even after decades in the business, Don’s purpose hasn’t changed. “For 45 years, I’ve gotten up around 4:30 a.m. and kept my phone on all weekend,” he says with a smile. “I love what I do. My purpose is God, my family — and this work that keeps me engaged.”

Building the Next 80 Years

As RoMac celebrates eight decades of service, its foundation remains the same: hard work, integrity, and a commitment to people. Every nail, every beam, every customer relationship tells a story of dedication and community.

From a small lumber yard in Central Florida to one of the region’s most trusted building suppliers, RoMac’s story is proof that success is built — not bought — through purpose, passion, and people.

Here’s to 80 years of building dreams — and to the many more yet to come.