For four decades, Melanie (Ball) Linkie has been a familiar face behind the counter at the Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant on Division Street in Cobourg, serving generations of customers with the same friendly smile.
On Tuesday, July 7, 2026, co-workers gathered to celebrate an extraordinary milestone, surprising Linkie with a bouquet of flowers and a cake in honour of her 40 years of dedicated service.
Linkie began working at the Cobourg KFC on July 4, 1986, when she was just 24 years old. What started as a job became a lifelong career built on friendships, familiar faces and a genuine love of meeting people.
She says the secret to staying with the restaurant for so many years is simple.
“I’m a people person,” she said with a smile.
That love of people extends to both her fellow employees and the countless customers she has welcomed over the years. Linkie credits them for making every day enjoyable and for giving her a reason to look forward to coming to work.
Over 40 years, she has watched generations of families come through the doors, seeing children grow up and return as adults with families of their own. Through changing times, renovations and new faces, one thing has remained constant—Linkie’s warm personality and commitment to making customers feel welcome.
Tuesday’s celebration was more than just recognizing years on the job. It was a tribute to four decades of dedication, loyalty and the lasting impact one employee can have on a community.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
