Meet Justin Starr, director of business development at Merritt Concrete, Fireplace & Stone, which Whitehead Oil Company recently acquired.

Tell us a little about your business.Merritt Concrete, Fireplace & Stone (merrittlincoln.com) has supplied the Lincoln community with ready-mix concrete, construction materials, custom stone, and fireplaces since 1894. After over 125 years in the industry, the Merritt family elected to step away from the business. Whitehead Oil Company purchased Merritt Concrete, Fireplace & Stone in December 2021, and we are thrilled to continue the tradition of providing outstanding customer service and excellent concrete, fireplace, and stone to the Lincoln community. Whether you’re a builder, a contractor, or a DIY master, we have you covered! Stop by our showroom at 827 S 26th St. today!

How did you get started in the business? – I started working at Whitehead Oil Company hauling fuel as a part-time employee nearly 15 years ago and have had several roles within the company since then. I have been on the wholesale side of the business for the past several years. I have really enjoyed growing our business and helping others grow theirs as well.

Tell us a little about your family. – I am married to Sara Starr, and we live near Denton, NE, just west of Lincoln. Our home is full of barks and wags from our three dogs, and we love to watch our nephews and nieces participate in all of their activities.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – On a day off, Sara and I enjoy all the outdoors has to offer. We love to fish, bow hunt, and work together in the yard in our free time. Summer is an excellent time for us! We have several trips planned to national parks in the coming months.

Who inspires you? – Successful businesspeople inspire me the most—especially those who are able to manage their time between work and being actively involved with their families.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – Surround yourself with intelligent people. Your learning is limited if you’re the smartest person in the room.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? – My favorite book is The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown. It will keep you on the edge of your seat.

What is your favorite movie? – My favorite movie is Ocean’s Eleven.

What is your favorite TV show? – My favorite TV show is NCIS.

What is your favorite local restaurant? – I love going down to Lincoln’s Historic Haymarket and eating at Buzzard Billy’s. The cuisine will take you straight to the streets of New Orleans.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? – If I could pick one famous person to have dinner with, it would be Donald Trump. It surely wouldn’t be a boring dinner!

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?(402) 435-3509; jstarr@whiteheadoil.com; merrittlincoln.com.