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By Chris Lowe
May 17, 2023
In September of 1986, Byron Middendorf and Wayne Lowe (my dad) founded Equinox Information Systems. That was 36 years ago. I was born in November of 1986 right after my dad started this company, so it’s easy math for me to know how long Equinox has been around. And after 36 wonderful, devoted years, my dad has earned his retirement.
During my life, I have heard stories about how logical, smart, fast, organized, detailed, and amazing Wayne was at his job as a programmer. There were other stories about how my dad worked hard creating custom software to help each client’s needs. But as a kid, you just know your dad is going to work so he can make money for your family. While I was growing up, I remember him traveling a lot for work but always bringing us home some sort of candy or souvenir from his travels, so I didn’t mind. The place I went to middle/high school was located only a block or so from his office. I remember picking up a pay phone to call him so he could come pick me up after practice...or calling him if I needed anything. I knew I could count on him. I also have memories of my dad wearing a pager/beeper all the time, so if there was an emergency work call, he could help fix the issue. I also remember my dad always attending my sporting events, taking pictures, keeping stats, and always being so supportive.
Along the way, I learned a little about Equinox. My typical response when someone asked what my dad did was to say, “he makes software for phone companies”. I don’t think I ever had a person ask a follow up question to that boring answer! But what he did was SO much more.
With his business partner Byron, Wayne created a great place to work. Their mantra of ‘family comes first’ and focusing on what really matters is such a great legacy. And it’s still just as true today as when they founded the company. I know I had a better childhood because my dad was around, and I am so thankful for that. And because Equinox puts family first, my dad has given that gift to so many other families as well. With your family well cared for, it’s a lot easier to do your job and focus on providing the best telecom solutions. That’s why I’m amazed but yet not at all surprised how the small business Wayne and Byron created 36 years ago has become an industry leading company. It’s a great success to have created Equinox; however, the legacy of family comes first is so much more important and enduring.
All of us in the Equinox family are forever indebted to Wayne not only for creating a great place to work but also for his innumerable contributions to the company, its employees, and customers. He modeled integrity, honesty, commitment, and grace in every task and interaction during the entire 36 years. As a token of appreciation, we had a very magical retirement party in his honor. This photo gallery captures the event’s highlights.
I’m proud of my dad and everything he created at Equinox and for its employees! I’m excited he gets to finally stop wearing a pager and begin some new adventures. More importantly, I’m honored to play a role in carrying on the legacy he and Byron established. I wish you nothing but the best as you retire, Dad!
In his first Equinox role as a TeleLink quality assurance tester, Chris Lowe helped improve the company’s testing and installation procedures. In late 2020, Chris moved into the role of Director, Equinox Support and is now the Vice President of Equinox Support. In that capacity, he is responsible for managing application testing efforts and overseeing all support services, including the help desk and product documentation. Chris and his wife Jessica have 2 boys, 1 girl, and 2 dogs. A former college baseball standout, Chris loves sports and continues to play them as often as possible. Chris is committed to fitness, enjoys being active and outdoors, and especially relishes coaching his sons’ baseball teams.
To learn more about Equinox, its products, and staff, visit www.equinoxis.com or call (615) 612-1200.
