It was quite the surprise for the Czuy family recently during 10th anniversary celebrations of their business the Innisfail Truck Ranch.

Long time family friend and co-star of the CBC hit series Dragons’ Den, Brett Wilson dropped by for a visit during the event, which was held Jan. 22.

Wilson and Daryl Czuy, the owner of Innisfail Truck Ranch, have known each other since they both lived in North Battleford, Saskatchewan many years ago, said Greg Wing, sales manager.

Wing had contacted Wilson about possibly coming to last weekend’s celebrations. At that point, Wilson was vacationing in the Caribbean.

Wilson later headed to Toronto, flew out to Calgary last Saturday and drove to his friends’ business to join in the celebration and serve as keynote speaker, said Wing.

“It was a big surprise when Brett walked in. It pretty much blew the doors off the place,” said Wing. “He talked to everyone, posed for pictures and signed autographs for anyone who wanted them.”

Of course, it also meant a great deal to Czuy to have his old friend join in the festivities.

Wilson was also in no rush to leave, enjoying the chance to catch up with the Czuy family and chat with others at the event.

“He told me he had maybe one hour, but he was probably one of the last people to leave,” said Wing.

On the Dragons’ Den, aspiring entrepreneurs face five multi-millionaires, including Wilson to present their business ideas.

Wilson and the others on the panel have the expertise and funds to help turn these concepts into fortunes if they agree to financially support the ideas put to them.

According to the Dragons’ Den web site, Wilson is one of Canada’s most energetic philanthropists, having given – and engaged others to give – tens of millions to non-profit initiatives.

mweber@reddeerexpress.com