Family &
2019
OWNED OPERATED
A publication of Southern Lakes Newspapers
Page 2
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS 2019
CONGRATULATIONS
TO TH E E NT I RE KEEF E FA MI LY ON ALL OF YOUR SUCCESS IN 2018
FRONT TO BACK; LEFT TO RIGHT | CASSIE WINTER • HEATHER BEST • CHRISTINE WILLIAMS • DEB SCHROEDER • DIANE URLAKIS • TAMMY HAASE • KRISTIN STAHULAK • BARB PHILIPPS • BILL NEVORASKI • JANET GIOVANNETTI • BARBARAANN BURMEISTER • MARJORIE KRANTZ • MARCY HAMMETT • TRACY SALLEE • PATTI ZURLA • JANIS HARTLEY • CHARLOTTE SIBBING • LAURA RODRIGUEZ • JANET BEHRENS • KATRINA LUBINSKI • JEREMY FREEZE • ROB EDWARDS • GARETH COLE • MARK LARKIN • TOM PEDERSON • TOM COULMAN • LINDA TONGE • JOEL REYENGA • KIM REYENGA • CHRIS DEVINCENTIS • MIKE KEEFE • TOM KEEFE • LISA PITCHER • LAEL VANDENBURGH • JORJA BOILEY • DONNA LACZNY • DONNA BRONGIEL • ALISA BLISS • JASON FISCHER • GARY DUNHAM • STEVE BEERS • MEGHAN QUIST • BOB WEBSTER • SCOTT HALLATT • JOHN O’LAUGHLIN • JERRY KROUPA • JONATHAN BLAKEMAN • MICK BALESTRIERI • CARL GUSTAFSON • ANDY SCHMIDT • GRETCHEN HAYDAM • LOWELL KENDALL • STACEY SCHULTZ • KATIE STARCK DUNSKER • KATHY WEBER • CARLA TANNER • TIM PAGEL • KRISTA DUDONES • ELIZABETH LUPO DIVITO • CATHI PIWKO • NATALIE TORRES • CHRIS KAYSER • DAVID AGUIRRE • DEBBIE COBIAN • JAY HICKS • ELAINE JOHNSON • STACEY SHEETS MCDONALD • SUSANNE MARSH • KRIS KUKLA • JUAN MARTINEZ • BRENDA HAUSNER • CHRIS PONSONBY • ARIEL ALTERGOTT • TRICIA FORBECK • NOT PICTURED | ANDREA CUMMINGS • ANNIE ZAMBITO • AUSTEN FORBECK • BROOKE SCHIERHORN • CAREY FOWLER • CHRIS JASSER • CHRIS RATHBONE • CLANCY GREEN • DAN OLESTON • DARLENE HUBER • DENNIS CARNES • DIANE COCROFT • JESSICA JOHNSON • JOHN GOGGIN • JUNE MCLEAN • KAREN OSTERMEIER • KRISTEN PEASE • LUANN SMITH • MADDIE PACHOLCZAK • MARY KILKENNY • MATT BURKE • MEGAN PULTZ • MICHAEL BENTLEY • MIKE BURKE • MIKE PFAMMATTER • PATTI KIRCHHOFF • PEGGY BENTLEY • RANDY ERWIN • RITA BURNAP • ROGER WOLFF • RUTA SYVERSON • RYAN SIMONS • SHARON SMOLENSKY • SHIRLEY COULMAN • SUZANNE KAMINSKI • TAYLOR WEST • TOM MARTIN
262.248.4492 | KEEFEREALESTATE.COM
340520
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS 2019
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Tricia and Pat Vogel, owners of Ketterhagen Memorials, offer more than just headstones, they are willing to listen to families. Ketterhagen Memorials marked its 125th year on Jan. 13, 2019.
MONUMENT FIRM
Celebrates 125 years
JASON ARNDT Family Owned and Operated
KETTERHAGEN MEMORIALS EXPANDED IN 2018
Humble beginnings Since its founding, the business went through several names and owners until
1958, when Kenneth Ketterhagen bought it. Kenneth and Pat Ketterhagen, moved the establishment to its current location at 700 Milwaukee Ave. in 1960. The Vogels kept the Ketterhagen name when they purchased the business in November 2009. Additionally, Pat and Tricia decided to keep of all its employees, who brought experience and a wealth of knowledge. “When I came into the business, all of the employees in the business were here and staying with the business,” he said. “So, the continuity came from my employees training me. They were 27- and 30-year veterans in the business.” “(They) made it easy for me to come in and continue the Ketterhagen traditions.”
Old-fashioned tradition That tradition includes a personal touch, Pat said, adding each stone is uniquely created at its Burlington facility. He said they do not use factory production methods, said the quality is unlike any other. “The thing that makes Ketterhagen uniquely different is that we still do all of the work on our monuments like they have been done the last hundred years,” he said. “Every stone is still individually designed and hand cut and manufactured in what I would call a very traditional oldfashioned way.” That method involves traditional equipment other companies have discontinued using to maintain the quality. Ketterhagen Memorials offers the cutting services for any shade of granite, marble and bronze in an array of sizes.
The company also assists civic groups with memorials, homeowners who seek garden stones, pet owners looking for a memorial and park benches, among other items. “We do a lot of civic memorials and monuments,” said Pat. “Whatever it is you want, we can create it.” Ketterhagen Memorials also assists area cemeteries with restoration of headstones. “We work with cemeteries that come in. A lot of times, they want restoration or repair of headstones that have fallen over,” Tricia said.
Cemetery services, expansion Last year, the Vogels expanded the business, adding a new division to Ketterhagen Memorials. “We have started a new company as well this spring called Cemetery Management Services, or CMS, and that particular division is managing cemeteries,” he said. “We can do it all. We can mow the grass, we can dig the graves.” “We provide them with any services that they want.” Last April, Ketterhagen Memorials bought Bosman Monuments in Kenosha. Bosman Monuments, which has been in business for more than 60 years, continues to operate under its traditional name and with the same employees. “We had a busy year in 2018,” Pat said.
Family-owned operation The Vogels, who have 13 total employees between Kenosha and
Burlington, operate Ketterhagen Memorials as a family-owned establishment. “It is a family operation. Our son-in-law, William (Bastian), works here full-time and my daughter, Courtney, also works here parttime,” he said. “Then our son and daughter, Cody and Callie, who are in college, they work here during the summer.” For more information, see the ad on Page 24.
Family
2019
When families visit BY Jason Arndt Ketterhagen Memorials STAFF WRITER in Burlington, owners Pat and Tricia Vogel acknowledged that most times they are grieving and simply need someone to listen to them and offer assistance wherever possible. “This isn’t the type of business where have a lot of people just coming in and shopping, this is kind of an at-need business,” Pat said. The business, which opened under the name Central Marble and Granite Works on Chestnut Street in 1894, entered its 125th year on Jan. 13. Pat, who reports 2018 was a year of expansion for the business, said the 125th anniversary comes with the same set of responsibilities. “We really just try to be low-key because we are dealing with families who are grieving and we just basically want to be the type of business where we just want to listen,” he said. “When they come in, we want to be here to help them and assist them the best way we can.” Tricia agreed, adding services extend beyond offering a monument or grave marker. “We want to help them in their grieving process,” she said. In addition to the Burlington location, Ketterhagen Memorials has a retail branch in Elkhorn and the Vogels also own Bosman Monuments in Kenosha.
OWNED & OPERATED A publication of Southern Lakes Newspapers LLC
1102 Ann St., Delavan, WI 53115 (262) 728-3411
Section Editor................ Tracy Ouellette Creative/Production Director.............................. Heidi Schulz Advertising Director ..................... Vicki Vanderwerff Section Designer...............Jen DeGroot For advertising opportunities in our publications, call (262) 725-7701, ext. 134.
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FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS 2019
The STINEBRINK FAMILY Thanks You for Over Forty Wonderful Years of Business in SE Wisconsin! We are proud to be able to employ over 350 local residents who help us fulfill our mission to take excellent care of our customers.
Your Full Service Grocery Store
A Cut Above the Rest
Family Owned & Operated Since 1974 • Full Deli Department, Party Trays Available
• In-House Bakery, Custom Cakes
Over 40 Years of Excellence
• Fresh Salad and Hot Food Bar • Floral Arrangements and • Produce Delivered Fresh Daily Plants for All Occasions • Full Service Meat Department, • Complete Liquor, Wine & Beer Department Will Cut To Order
4 Great Locations to Serve You Better!
Open 7 Days a Week • 6:00 A.M. to 10:00 P.M.
Delavan
1414 E. Geneva Street in the Shopko Shopping Center
262-728-2638
Stinebrink’s Liquor Store (Next Door) Largest Liquor Store in the Area
262-248-8798
7600 Pershing Blvd.
262-764-1954 Kenosha 2215 80th Street
262-654-6961
340440
262-740-0541
Lake Geneva
100 East Geneva Square in the Geneva Square Shopping Center
Kenosha
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS 2019
Page 5
Delavan Lake Boat Shed and J’s Model A Family owned and operated since 1978
Here at Delavan Lake Boat Shed and J’s Model A, we provide an experience that most do not receive at other shops. With the long family history, antique cars, and antique wood boats, it is like a museum you can play in! We provide storage, service and restoration that is fast, efficient and affordable with the quality you deserve. After 40 years in the business, we know boats like the back of our hands. With that kind of experience you can rest assured your boat is always serviced with the best quality care. We love restoring old boats and watercraft. Our specialty is working on old wooden Chris Craft, Century, Streblow and Hacker models, but we will work on anything. Our trusted, knowledgeable staff strives to provide the best possible care and service with friendly and personal face-toface customer interaction. We encourage our customers to stop in and see our collection. There is always something new and exciting going on here, and sales to fit your budget. Looking forward to seeing you soon! Delavan Lake Boat Shed and J’s Model A are at 5495 State Road 50, Delavan, WI 53115. For more information, call 262 728-5438 and see the ad on Page 17. We also encourage you to visit our website www. delavanlakeboatshed.com and our Facebook Page to review our extensive gallery of photos and current and upcoming events. The Jarosz Family
SUBMITTED PHOTO Family Owned and Operated
The Delavan Lake Boat Shed restores old wood boats. The Boat Shed specializes in fixing up old wooden Chris Craft, Century, Streblow and Hacker models, but will work any model.
Meet the Stinebrink family
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LAKE GENEVA REGIONAL NEWS Family Owned & Operated
Stinebrink family members from left are: Todd, Ben and Tim, their dad Brett, Mark and his sons, Matt and Dave. Brett and Mark hold a photograph of their late parents, Ed and Ellie Stinebrink, co-owners and co-founders of
Stinebrink’s grocoery stores. Ed, Mark and Brett opened the first Stinebrink grocery store on Dec. 1, 1974. For more information about Stinebrink’s stores see the ad on Page 4.
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FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS 2019
3rd Generation Family Owned Since 1937
EN ON TUESDAYS P O W O N
Little Italy Pepperoni Pub Little Italy Pepperoni Pub Dinner Dining Homemade Pizza
Dinner Dining Private Parties Private Parties
Homemade Pizza Carry-out, Delivery Carry-out, Delivery & Catering & Catering
Open for Lunch and Dinner
Elkhorn NAPA Auto Parts 806 N. Wisconsin • Elkhorn, WI 53121
(262) 723-6272
Independently Owned & Operated
Hours: Monday-Friday 7am to 8pm Saturday 8am to 4pm, Sunday 8am to 3pm
Independently Owned & Operated
309680
720 N. WISCONSIN ST. ELKHORN, WI
339931
Custom Spray Paint Cans • Hydraulic Hoses Made While You Wait Knowledgeable Staff • Largest Auto Parts Inventory in Walworth County
720 N. WISCONSIN ST. ELKHORN, WI
www.sperinos.com 262·723·2222 www.sperinos.com 262·723·2222
www.flueggeoptical.com • Corner of Hwy. 36 & Main St., Waterford, WI • HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 9-6, Sat. 9-1 • 534-6090 THE FLUEGGE OPTICAL STORY: We TRULY are a local family owned and operated business conveniently located on the NE corner of Highway 36 and Main Street in Waterford, WI. We have been at this location since 1986. Staffed by the third generation and fourth generation of Fluegge opticians, we are proud to say that we are many things. Such as • The only full service optical store in Racine county • We manufacture all lenses in-house • We are the only optical lab in Wisconsin that manufactures glass lenses • We are the oldest name in the optical lens manufacturing business in Wisconsin and have been making lenses since 1918. We are truly a dedicated eyeglass store. We do not examine eyes or fit contact lenses. We simply make and fit eyewear right and fast. We proudly declare that we are the largest independent eyewear store in Wisconsin with over 5,000 styles of high quality eyewear e.g. Tiffany, Dior, Fendi, Tag Heuer, Polo, Versace, Gucci, Prada, and many more. In addition we have a large and great selection of sunglass brands e.g. Oakley, Maui Jim, Ray Ban, Rudy Project and more. Truly a selection to satisfy the most discriminating taste. If it goes on your face, it should come from our place.
Racine County’s ONLY In-House, Full Service Lab With Glasses Made As Quickly As You Need them
If you are not familiar with us and what we do, simply ask a friend or a neighbor that wears glasses and you’ll find that we have probably done something for them. Or visit us on the web at www.flueggeoptical.com. We have convenient hours; Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. We have fun music, TVs and jars of our trademark Tootsie Rolls and true desire to take care of you, our customer for your eyeglass needs in a way that others don’t do or forgot how to do. Customer service is not a department here; it’s how we do business. So please, we encourage you to stop by and see for yourself and you will find that in the case with Fluegge Optical, seeing is believing. We look forward to the opportunity! Thank you, The staff at Fluegge’s, AKA “The FLU Crew”
196423
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS 2019
Page 7
Maas & Sons, at 2807 Beck Drive in Waterford, is celebrating 100 years of service in the community. The “water store” offers water treatment, plumbing, repairs, pool and spa services and more.
THE HISTORY OF
Maas & Sons
TRACY OUELLETTE Family Owned and Operated
WATERFORD’S WATER STORE CELEBRATES 100TH BIRTHDAY This year Maas & Sons celebrates 100 years of being a family owned service provider in Southeast Wisconsin in one form or another. It all began in 1919 in Wheatland when William A. Maas set up shop as a farrier service and general farm repair provider, thus beginning Maas & Sons long history of serving the family farms of Southeast Wisconsin. Through the years the nature of the business may have changed but Maas & Sons has always been in the business of helping people solve their problems. Maas & Sons has been in their current location in Waterford, at the corner of highways 36, 83 and 20, since 1945 when Wally Maas and his brother built the current building as an Oliver tractor dealer
and farm goods and implement store. One of the most important things to a dairy farmer is water. This is how Maas & Sons went from farm goods to wells and water pumps. The water pumps then were driven by windmills. Maas & Sons still has boxes of pump leathers for the old working head pumps that were driven by the now derelict windmills standing near so many barns in the countryside today. Maas & Sons continued to service wells as windmills fell and electricity came to the farms. Many working head pumps were converted to electric motors and eventually to submersible pumps, similar to the ones we install and service today. As Maas & Sons shifted more towards well and pump service the business passed through four generations of the Maas Family.
While Maas & Sons was servicing wells and well pumps across Southeast Wisconsin, another family business was beginning in Burlington. Working out of his home with a twoman crew in 1978, Dale Bruesewitz grew his plumbing business into a prominent plumbing contractor and service company. He soon realized the need for a bigger shop with a show room and moved Bruesewitz Plumbing into town on Chestnut Street where he set up shop for more than 20 years. In May 2000 Dale purchased Maas & Sons and ran both companies as a common business. Now Maas & Sons had evolved into the complete plumbing company it is today. In addition to servicing and installing well and pump systems, and water softening
and conditioning systems, they were able to expand into complete plumbing services like septic systems, sewer and water laterals, water heaters, sewer and drain cleaning, and kitchen and bath remodeling. In 2010 Dale sold the Bruesewitz Plumbing name and business to an employee but kept Maas & Sons in Waterford. And Maas & Sons has kept its tradition of being a family owned and run business that focuses on quality and service. Today, members of both the Bruesewitz family and the Maas family still run Maas & Sons in the same location where their tradition of service has been located since 1945. For more information, visit www.maaswaterworks.com, call 262-534-2170 and see the ad on Page 32.
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FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS 2019
Eric & Sarah Daniels & Family
Jeff & Stacy Werth & Family
Licensed FuneraL director
Licensed FuneraL director
Elkhorn
Pat & Ric Oberst oFFice manager
YOUR LOCAL INDEPENDENT TIRE DEALER
Licensed FuneraL director
owner & Licensed FuneraL director
Mitch Daniels & Family
• Oil Changes • Brakes • Shocks • Struts • Alignments
Marlene Daniels & Family oFFice manager
A Family Tradition at daniels Family Funeral Homes Jeanna & David Cole & Family and crematory we know the importance of family. Being family-owned means respecting family values – compassion, sensitivity, and a commitment to helping other families in their time of sorrow. By making arrangements before the time of need, your family can be relieved of making tough decisions during their time of grievance. we believe in transforming a fond remembrance into a truly meaningful and personal event for you and your family. Licensed FuneraL director
Contact us for more information on funeral preplanning and prefunding through
Daniels Family Funeral Homes & Crematory Schuette-Daniels 625 S. Browns Lake Dr., Burlington, WI 53105 (262) 763-3434
Polnasek-Daniels 908 11th Ave., Union Grove, WI 53182 (262) 878-2011
(262) 723-2906
1520 N. Fairway Ln. Elkhorn, WI
Haase loCkwood & assoCIates
Funeral Homes & Crematory InC. Elkhorn
730 N. Wisconsin St. (262) 723-6390
Genoa City Twin Lakes 113 Freeman St. (262) 279-5933
620 Legion Drive (262) 877-3013
www.haaselockwoodfhs.com 309353
340672
Lars & Alyson Ekornaas & Family
www.petestireinc.com
Matt & Donna Daniels & Family
Business manager
340669
Craig & Marian Hancock & Family
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS 2019 • SECTION 2
Page 9
JASON ARNDT Family Owned and Operated
Traxside Skating, 637 S. Kane St., has a total staff of about 15 employees. Five employees came together on the roller rink Feb. 14. (from left) Anthony Galgano,
staff; Shyanne Lamb, party specialist; Georgia Ibarra, general manager; Tammy Boldt, event coordinator; Jessica Humphrey, staff.
Rink looks to get adults rolling Traxside Skating now offers adults-only sessions
Regardless of a person’s BY Jason Arndt age and skating ability, Capelli’s Traxside Skating STAFF WRITER in Burlington has something to offer, thanks to new programs and features. Traxside Skating, built in 1978, was formerly Skate Barn until 2006 when Melanie and John Capelli bought the business and changed the name. Tammy Boldt, a staff member of more than six years, said she has found her job both rewarding and fun because she has witnessed families come together. “It is obviously fun. I get to come to work, listen to some music all day, hang out and help kids learn how to skate,” she said. Children, however, are not the only people having fun on the roller rink. Staff members at the roller rink also encourage parents to join them with hopes of bringing back memories of their younger days. “We encourage them to bring back that love of skating because that used to be a big thing when we were younger,” Boldt said. The big thing, she said, has been a revival in recent years that convinced employees to create an adult skate night.
ADULT REVIVAL Party specialist Shyanne Lamb said staff decided to unveil adult skate, which is held on the second Saturday every month from 8 to 10 p.m., to allow older skaters time for themselves. “We are trying to offer special events and things to accommodate everybody, every skill level, every person and we came up
with the adult skate geared towards 18 and older,” said Lamb. “It gives adults the opportunity to come and do something they love.” Boldt said the roller rink’s wide array of music offerings, which includes a DJ, offers adults an incentive. “I think with the revival of the adult skate, you bring that love back to the adults,” she said. “We like to play all kinds of music so the parents will be able to listen to what they heard when they were younger.”
SENSORY SKATE Meanwhile, Traxside Skating recently introduced a program for younger children, which is called Sensory Skate. Sensory Skate is held every Saturday from 10 to 11 a.m. and limits environmental distractions. “Sensory skate is for smaller children and children who have special sensory needs that can’t be around loud music and bright, flashing lights,” Lamb said. General Manager Georgia Ibarra said the program was developed after receiving feedback from customers. “It is an add-on that we came up with just because sometimes we see a couple of kids that are here that can’t handle the loud music and lights,” she said. “We have parents that have come up and asked about sensory skate.”
EDUCATION ENHANCEMENT Additionally, area schools can turn a day at the roller rink into a science lab, thanks to Science, Technology, Engineering and Math field trips.
JASON ARNDT Family Owned and Operated
Traxside Skating offers skate rental for $3 per person.
The field trips last three hours and examine several educational lessons related to roller skating and its atmosphere. Lessons include physics, geometry, friction, sound waves, light waves, calculating speed and can also promote physical health. “They learn science lessons prior to skating,” Boldt said. “We learn how friction affects roller skates and the engineering involved in making skates.” The STEM field trips are tailored for elementary schools.
AFFORDABILITY Traxside Skating offers multiple party packages, including events for birthday parties. The first party package starts at $85
for a group of 10. That package includes admission for all group members, skate rentals and reserved tables. Other packages have food items such as pizza and ice cream along with pitchers of soda. For general admission, the cost is $6 per person and $3 for skate rental. “We make it affordable for the families to come,” Lamb said. “We usually have deals, like family passes.” Traxside Skating also has 5- and 10-day passes, monthly passes and annual passes. Traxside Skating, 637 Kane St., is open Sundays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Tuesdays 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., Fridays 5:30 to 9 p.m., Saturdays 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. For more information on party packages, visit traxsideskating.com.
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SECTION 2 • FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS 2019
Your
Superstore!
BURLINGTON
Sell Us Your Car
WE’RE HERE TO SERVE YOU
Working Together to be Your Preferred Dealership
Patrick Lynch Owner
Jim Olsson General Manager
Bob Labadie Sales Consultant
Chris Kahlmorgan Sales Manager
Dylan Strazzanti Sales Manager
Geoff Eckhardt Sales Manager
Pete Manos Sales Manager
Craig Roffers Customer Experience Manager
Ben Howell Internet Director
Nick Brose Sales Consultant
Tom Gier Sales Consultant
Julian Pangburn Sales Consultant
Isaac Thiel Sales Consultant
Dan Dace Sales Consultant
Michael Asencio Sales Consultant
Graham Robson Sales Consultant
Nick Kramer Sales Consultant
Sawyer Tisch Sales Consultant
Christian Rupp Sales Consultant
Pete Christiansen Sales Consultant
Jeff Mucks Sales Consultant
Evan Ritcher Sales Consultant
Ken Jurcich Sales Consultant
Donna Brixius Receptionist
340523
262-558-4212
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS 2019 • SECTION 2
Page 11
HEATHER RUENZ Family Owned and Operated
The former DeHaan RV Center, Elkhorn is now Kunes Country RV & Truck Center after David and Kim DeHaan decided to sell the longtime family business.
Founder Richard DeHaan bought out Henry Melcher’s car dealership in downtown Elkhorn and eventually moved to its current Deere Road location.
After spending years BY Heather Ruenz helping other families STAFF WRITER enjoy life, the owners of DeHaan RV Center, Elkhorn, decided their time had come to do the same so they made the decision to sell the dealership. “A few years ago, in 2016, we started thinking about retiring. So we put out some feelers, including to Gregg Kunes. At the time, no one was interested but Gregg called me not too long ago and we had lunch and then started negotiating,” David DeHaan said. He has owned the RV Center with his wife, Kim, since his father and business founder, Richard, retired in 2004. It was Richard being laid off from a job that ultimately led to the family owning a business. “Dad worked for Borg and in 1956 he was laid off and there wasn’t unemployment back then so he did what he could. I had just been born and my parents had a new house. He started talking to the guy who was a Rambler dealer over in Delavan Lake and that guy said he could use some help so my dad started helping him out,” David said. Richard liked the car business so much that when he got called back to Borg he worked one day and went back to working for the Rambler dealer, according to David.
calls so he would drive around in a car and stop by a house that had an older car in the driveway and would go up to the door and ask if they were ready to buy a new car. Believe it or not, my dad sold a lot of cars that way,” David said. When Richard left the dealer in Delavan in 1968, Melcher hired him. A year later, David started helping out and in 1973, after David graduated from high school, he went to work there full-time. “We were downtown at that time, where the thrift shop is across from the Nickel Plate. My dad eventually bought the balance of the business from Melcher but Melcher died shortly thereafter and his family still owned the building,” David explained. “Chrysler said we could do better if we moved the location and at the same time there was a John Deere dealer just outside of town for sale so we bought that in 1987. It was just a big chunk of property and Chrysler limited us to a Jeep and a couple of cars at the time,” he added.
Kunes buys DeHaan RV Center Former owners step away to ‘enjoy life’
Richard DeHaan
In 1968, Richard planned to buy that business but at the last minute it didn’t work out so he went to talk to a competitor in neighboring Elkhorn. “Henry Melcher had a successful dealership and him and dad were always in stiff competition. Back then they did cold
‘Here’s your camper’ One day Richard was looking through a magazine and decided to mail a card to a company in Canada requesting more information about a camper. “We never heard anything and one day, this motorhome pulls in and they said,
‘Here’s your camper.’ It was beautiful – and those were true four season RVs, so that started it,” David said. That was in 1989 and from that point on, DeHaan began carrying more products, from travel trailers and fifth wheels to diesel pushers. The business was growing and in 1993 David’s wife, Kim, joined the business and because of her skillset, she helped them get computerized and started a rental business. While some of DeHaan’s customers were from Elkhorn and surrounding communities, David said they came from all over. “When the Internet really took off we did a lot of sales across the United States and even shipped some units to the U.K. and Chile. Being able to reach people anywhere really made a big difference in where our customers came from,” David said. He said often it was that DeHaan had a model of an RV with something specific the buyer was looking for, “and they don’t think anything of driving 1,000 miles for the one they want.”
Focusing solely on RVs The DeHaans were still selling RVs and cars then but the cars were becoming
See DEHAAN RV, Page 13
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SECTION 2 • FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS 2019
YE OLDE HOTEL
50th Year
Historic Bar & Restaurant in Lyons
~SPECIALS~
$40 SURF & TURF NIGHTLY WEDNESDAY Wing Night THURSDAY $15 6 oz. Filet • $5 Italian Beef Dippers w/Chips FRIDAY $11 All You Can Eat Whitefish PLUS Complete Fish Fry Menu Seniors enjoy $2 Off Any Fish Dinners until 6:00 p.m. SATURDAY Slow Roasted Prime Rib Queen Cut $20 • King Cut $25 SUNDAY Old Fashioned Turkey or Pork Roast Dinner $13 ~DINE-IN ONLY~
HOME OF THE $3 OLD FASHIONEDS SUNDAY FUNDAY CAR SHOWS DURING THE SUMMER! Each 1st Sunday of the month - Starts May 5th • Noon-6:00 p.m. Live Music 2:00 - 6:00 p.m. Like us on Facebook for more details
Celebrating Our 50th Year In Business With 50¢ Tappers of Miller Lite All Year
Hwy. 36, halfway between Lake Geneva & Burlington
Computer Service On All Makes & Models Desktops and Laptop Virus Removal ⚫ System Optimization Upgrades ⚫ Diagnostics/Troubleshooting
Your On-Call “IT” Department
Remote Computer Support Servicing Home & Business Client
228 N Milwaukee Street, Waterford 262-514-3389 www.hometownpcs.com Facebook.com/hometownpcs 340532
340652
Closed Monday & Tuesday; Open Wednesday-Sunday at 4:00 p.m. • Carry Outs Available 6070 N. Railroad Street, Lyons, WI 53148 • (262) 763-2701 • Reservations Suggested • www.yeoldehotel.com
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS 2019 • SECTION 2
Thank you for your business and support
Tom Keefe
• DeHaan RV
Page 13
By Tom Keefe PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER KEEFE & ASSOCIATES INC.
Keefe has been gearing up for another spring selling season and counting our lucky stars that we are fortunate enough to live and work in this beautiful place. 2018, which marked our 75th year in business, turned out to be a great one. For the first time since 2006, we attained more than $500 million in sales, we donated more than $75,000 to local non-profits, and we opened our first office in the Greater Chicagoland area in Woodstock. While we have worked with Chicago and Illinois based customers for decades, this is our first office in Illinois, and our clientele have already started experiencing the benefits of working with Keefe on both sides of the border. The residential housing market in the Walworth, Racine, and Kenosha TriCounty region was very healthy in 2018. Median prices increased 7.21 percent, new construction continued to gain steam, and the local economy is strong. The main challenge in 2018 was a shortage of inventory, and while we don’t see a resolution to that issue in 2019, we do anticipate another strong year. For those considering selling, now is as good of a time as we have seen in years; for the buyers out there, now is the time to connect with your real estate sales professional and start to begin your search. An experienced, trusted advisor is as important as ever with the current market dynamics at play. For more information, see the ad on Page 2.
(Continued from page 11)
a nuisance, in part because manufacturers wanted dealers “to go big and that wasn’t going to happen for us,” David said. In 1998, they decided to sell the Jeep franchise to Tasch Motors and focus solely on RVs. In 2004, Richard decided he was ready for more time away “so we basically let him go,” he added with a laugh. They plugged along and did very well, according to David. He said people were buying RVs feverishly and the housing market was going crazy but then he noticed the gas prices creeping up. “We always paid attention to that being in the RV business. When it got above $3 a gallon I talked to Kim and we decided to stop ordering big rigs. In 2008, when it hit $3.75, everything tanked. A lot of our friends that were in the business went under – they lost everything and it was devastating to see,” David said. He said people don’t always understand the high costs associated with being a dealer and he always looked at them like chickens that have to be fed. “They aren’t sitting there for free but cost you thousands of dollars a month just to sit there. But we had downsized, we had to let some staff go and reduced employee benefits to survive and it worked. It was rough and scary but we survived,” David said. He recalled making a trip in 2009 to Indiana, basically the hub of RVs at the time. “It was a ghost town. Every commercial on the radio was about going to school and learning the trades – like the RV business was never going to come back again. It did come back but took a long time,” he said.
Hard to say goodbye “It was a sad day when we announced to the employees we were selling,” David
said. “We had generations of families that came to us – for cars and RVs so it was really tough.” But, he said, seeing many people work hard, save money and finally retire only to get sick, pushed them to make the change. “We’re retiring a couple years earlier than some people do but it’s time for us. We had a very good run,” he said. Kunes asked David and Kim’s daughter, Kylee, to stay on and kept salespeople and technicians. “She’ll be a very good asset for them. She went to college and graduated in 2012 and then said she wanted to work for us, running the service department of all things. I couldn’t believe it! But she knows the business and she never got any special treatment. She was the best service manager we ever had and still is,” David said. He said their son, Derek, also helped out at the store and at shows but never had any interest in making a career of it. “He was an Eagle Scout and was a great students so could’ve gone to college but decided to go in the service. He’s in the Air Force working on multi-million dollar aircraft in North Carolina and is in the process of becoming a tech sergeant. He can basically do everything other than fly the planes,” David said. David and Kim plan to spend more time with their kids and four grandkids. “I told Kim we spent years making other people happy – watching them going on vacations and retiring and traveling – now it’s time for us,” he said. “We hope Kunes can carry on the RV business as we did. We were very hands-on and it was a smooth operation,” he added. Kunes Country RV and Truck Center is at 9 Deere Rd., Elkhorn off of Highway 67 south of the city. For more information call 262-723-2260 or visit dehaanrv.com.
SUBMITTED PHOTO Family Owned and Operated
David DeHaan began working at his dad’s dealership in 1973; his wife, Kim, joined him in 1993 and the two took over when founder Richard retired in 2004. A couple of weeks ago the business was sold to Gregg Kunes, who owns multiple car dealerships in southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois.
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SECTION 2 • FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS 2019
Burtness since 1919
SUBMITTED PHOTOS Family Owned and Operated
Since its establishment, Burtness Chevrolet Buick GMC of Whitewater has been a family-owned dealer, operating from 1389 W. Main St. Pictured is the Burt-
ness dealership as it looked in the 1950s. Elmer Burtness opened the Burtness Chevrolet in Orfordville in 1919. For more information, see the ad on Page 34.
Best of WalWorth County!
Official Waste Hauler of the Walworth County Fair
Korey’s Auto Kare
Family Owned & Operated Since 1954
When it comes to auto repair, you want to know you’re getting a fair price and guaranteed results. That’s why more customers trust us to handle their automotive repair and maintenance needs. We’ve built our reputation on providing honest, reliable, quality service at a fair price. Make your appointment for a FREE multipoint inspection today, and get to know us.
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Eli, Pete & Bob Nieuwenhuis
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Korey Kuehni, Proprietor/ Technician
Locally Owned & Operated
Hours Monday-Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
262-728-2886 340716
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS 2019 • SECTION 2
Page 15
Sue and Tom Schinke are the owners of Lyle’s TV and Appliance Center in Elkhorn.
Showroom LYLE’S UPDATES
SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Family Owned and Operated
STORE OFFERS THE LATEST APPLIANCES IN A REMODELED AREA For many BY Sandra Landen Machaj residents of CORRESPONDENT southern Wisconsin and Northern Illinois, Lyle’s TV and Appliances in Elkhorn is a go-to place for appliances. Whether looking for a washer, dryer, kitchen appliance or new television, customers of Lyle’s who haven’t been to the store lately will be surprised by the updates. Recently Lyle’s has taken on a new look with the remodeling of their kitchen display area, which includes an array of high-end kitchen appliances, the kind to turn an ordinary kitchen into a dream kitchen, owner Tom Schinke said. One popular item is the induction cook top. Looking like a regular glass cook top, the induction cooking method cooks six times faster than the conventional electric stove and three times faster than a gas stove. Schinke gave a demonstration of the
speed of the induction cook top. Placing a pan half filled with water on the burner, bubbles began to form along the bottom and side of the pan within a few seconds and quickly came to a full boil. “The induction cook top requires the use of magnetic pans,” Schinke said. “The heating element is electromagnetic and requires a magnetic bottom to the pan to heat. Since the heat goes from the burner directly to the pan, the cook top stays cool to the touch. It only emits heat to the area covered by the pan.” Schinke went on to demonstrate the uniqueness of this cook top. Taking a $20 bill from his wallet, he placed it between the cook top and the pan. It did not burn as the bill did not have a magnetic base to absorb the heat. Induction cook tops are slightly more expensive than the usual cook tops and they require a new set of cookware.
See LYLE’S, Page 19
SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Family Owned and Operated
This Wolf stove with a griddle in the center is one of the high-end kitchen appliances at Lyle’s TV and Appliance Center.
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SECTION 2 • FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS 2019
Your Hometown Funeral Home Since 1923 Your Hometown Funeral Home Since 1923
me
Mealy Funeral Home
n for overServing 90 years Waterford and surrounding Serving Waterford and surrounding care and compassion for over years communities with communities care andwith compassion for over 95 90years
hn E. Kojis
John E. Kojis
Generation Owner • Traditional d Funeral Director s dedicated staff
*Traditional Services
Services with Burial with Burial *Cremation with • Cremation with Memorial Services *Pre-Need Specialists Memorial Services *Serving All Faiths • Pre-Need Specialists
aterford WI 53185 mealyfuneralhome.com
Third KOJIS, Generation Owner JOHN
Licensed Funeral Director THIRD GENERATION OWNER, and his dedicated staff LICENSED FUNERAL DIRECTOR. JOE QUINN & TED HEGEMAN
225 West Main Street Waterford WI 53185 (262) 534-2233 www.mealyfuneralhome.com
225 West Main Street, Waterford, WI 53185 (262) 534-2233 www.mealyfuneralhome.com
Our First Vehicle
We have over 95 years of experience caring for families, from all walks of life. Families come to us because they know we are sincere about wanting to guide them through their most difficult time and are dedicated to excellence in service. Harry W. and Dena (Hoppe) Mealy began serving families of Waterford from our Main Street location in 1923. Back then it was in conjunction with a furniture business which was phased out in the ‘60’s. Over the years, they along with sons Harry Jr. and Thomas “Spud” and daughter Ione (Mealy) Kojis had been involved with offering compassion and comfort to Ione (Mea those in need. Spud as director and Ione operated ly) Kojis the funeral home together until his untimely death in 1978 at the age of 49. It is Spud’s ‘72 Buick Riviera that you see in our advertisements. The funeral home received some major renovations in the 90’s, changing the face of the building and remodeling the chapel. Recently the interior underwent more renovation and redecorating. Dena & Spud Mealy
Harry W.
Mealy wit
h Harry J
r.
Ione Kojis continued working with families with the aid of director Ted Hegeman, who has been an integral part of our business since 1984. Ione genuinely loved and cared about people. Like her mother, she attended every social event hosted in Waterford and she was equally loved by the community. She had an astounding memory for names, genealogy, and the history of the town. Declining health forced her into retirement in 2000 which is when her youngest of three sons stepped up to carry on the family name. A commitment to caring has passed down through three generations. Currently John E. Kojis is the third generation of the Mealy Family to operate the funeral home. John has taken his grandfather’s words “Take care of the family’s needs, it is a great reward to comfort others” to heart. John brings a great sense of caring and compassion to his work, striving to make the hardest time in one’s life just a little easier. The Mealy family was brought up on good values, respect, dedication and genuinely caring for their fellow man. It’s how you keep a business going. 339932
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS 2019 • SECTION 2
Page 17
Perfecting the Art of Listening Whether you’re considering upgrading your kitchen or adding curb appeal, we’re here, ready to listen. We combine your inspiration with our award-winning service for a memorable remodeling experience. Call us today to get started!
262.723.7232
StebnitzBuilders.com
FIND US ON
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F A M I LY O W N E D & O P E R AT E D S I N C E 1 9 7 8
SERVICES OFFERED
• Winter / Summer Storage (Inside & Outside)
Stop In See Our Showroom of Vintage Cars For Sale
Professional Ground-Up Restoration S ervices
• Inboard Sales & Service • Boat / Auto • In & Out Service • Pick-Up / Delivery – Marine & Auto • Shrink–Wrap • Mechanical–Marine / Auto / Trailers • Antique Wood Boat Restoration • Gel–Coat / Fiberglass Work • Custom Woodwork (Transom Bars) • Antique Auto restoration • Cleaning & Detailing–Marine & Auto • Bottom Wash • Consignment–Marine & Auto • Upholstery–Marine & Auto • Covers–Marine & Auto •Fuel Sales Copyright © 2003-2015. All rights reserved 340660
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SECTION 2 • FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS 2019
The David Kott Agency is now DJ Kott Agency - an Independent Insurance Agency, with over 20 companies to choose from. We’ve been able to help many folks save hundreds of dollars/per household, while giving them better coverages at the same time. We would love to see what we can do for you call us for a no-obligation quote - we look forward to speaking with you soon!
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262-534-4432
www.DavidKott.com david@davidkott.com In association with Karweik Insurance Group 341419
• Lyle’s
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS 2019 • SECTION 2
Page 19
(Continued from page 15)
Customers looking for an upscale stove frequently look at the Wolff or the Samsung lines. These professional stoves, some with extra burners from the traditional four, are a favorite. Five burners or a grill are expected in the top-line stoves. “Today’s clients often request a stove with a gas cook top and an electric oven,” Schinke said. “The electric oven is known for a better performance as it distributes a more even heat.” Everyone is used to seeing microwave ovens mounted above the stove, but there are other options for microwave placement. Schinke displayed a new microwave known as a microwave drawer. It appears to be just a deep drawer with food placed into it from the top rather than a traditional front microwave access. Schinke said the drawer style microwave is more versatile as it can be mounted under an island or under or above a wall oven.
Changing tastes “The colors and styles of kitchen appliances are constantly changing,” Schinke said. “For the last several years, stainless steel appliances have been the finish of choice.” That is now starting to change. New stainless finishes that are smudge proof are popular with families. Black stainless, black slate and a matte white finish are among the upcoming finishes. Refrigerators have gone through a variety of styles over the years, Schinke said. From the freezer on top and refrigerator on the bottom to the side-byside refrigerator popular with a generation of homeowners, things have evolved. Once the addition of water and ice distribution was a sign of a truly fine refrigerator. Now styles have changed again and the most desired type is a French door refrigerator with the freezer on the bottom and a water and ice dispenser. “Since most people use the refrigerator section more than the freezer, it is convenient to have it all on the top. People go into the freezer less often,” Schinke said. And for those looking for a little more? “One of the newer high-end refrigerators, known as a café refrigerator, also has a Keurig attachment to make a cup of hot coffee,” Schinke said. The real piece de resistance in refrigerators was the Samsung model that includes an electronic note pad on which one can write notes to other family members, Schinke said. Like any good computer people can pull up the weather or even create a photo slide show. Pull up a recipe and the ingredients can be quickly transferred to one’s electronic shopping list. If you are in the grocery store and can’t remember if you need eggs or milk, there are cameras inside the refrigerator, which allow you to view inside the refrigerator while at the grocery store to see what needs to be replenished.
Other needs As spring is here, it may be time to visit the outdoor kitchen area and replace that old grill. “The most popular grill now is the Big Green Egg,” Schinke said. The ceramic grill comes in a variety of sizes to suit different cooking needs. The grill uses hard lump charcoal, which burns hotter and more efficiently than charcoal briquettes, and can grill or to smoke meats. When it is time for a new washer or dryer, the variety of machines found at Lyles will fit just about any need, whether
SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Family Owned and Operated
The newly remodeled kitchen showroom at Lyle’s TV and Appliance Center, Elkhorn, displays a variety of high-end kitchen appliances including Wolff and Samsung brands.
it’s full-sized units or smaller apartment-sized appliances. There is also a full display of Speed Queen washing machines. “Speed Queen products are manufactured in Ripon Wisconsin. They are known for their long-term reliability,” Schinke said. “A little more expensive than some other brands they include a three-, fiveor seven-year warranty depending on model. Their warranty includes parts, labor, and trip charge,” Schinke said. In addition to Speed Queen there are a variety of other washers and dryers to consider. Today’s televisions offer a variety of sizes. “The newer televisions are getting thinner and thinner, a far cry from the original TV’s which were loaded with tubes and set out into the room,” Schinke said. Today’s ultra thin models can be mounted on walls. Many of the televisions on display are Samsung, known for their quality, Schinke said. One of the advantages of dealing with an independent appliance store such as Lyle’s is that they not only sell the appliances but they deliver and service them as needed. “Our customers come from the local area not only Elkhorn but also the southern Wisconsin area and across the Illinois border to nearby towns such as Richmond and McHenry. We limit our delivery and service areas to approximately a 30 mile radius so that we can offer the best in service,” Schinke said. Lyle’s is the last independent appliance store in Walworth
County. They continue to be voted best in Walworth County for the past nine years, even competing with the big box stores. Schinke said Lyle’s was opened by his father, Lyle Schinke in 1954 out of his home. “He later purchased the building at 17 S. Washington in Elkhorn where the business continues to grow.” Lyle’s is a family business with his son Tom joining him in 1973. His daughter-in-law Sue joined the business in 1996. Lyle was well known for his knowledge about the appliances he sold and also for the service that he offered to his customers, service that continues today. Lyle continued to actively work in the store until his retirement in 2006 when Tom and his wife, Sue, took over. Now as owners of Lyle’s, Tom and Sue have brought in other family members including their daughter to continue the work that Lyle began 65 years ago. Lyle passed away in January of this year at the age of 92 but his legacy lives on as his family continues to offer the residents of southern Wisconsin the best in home appliances and the best in repair service. Lyle’s TV and Appliances is at 17 S. Wisconsin, Elkhorn. Store hours are 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. For more information, call 262723-3477, visit www.Lylestv.com and see the ad on the back page.
SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Family Owned and Operated
Many newly remodeled kitchens include a wine refrigerator. This large wine refrigerator is built into cabinets and paired with a regular refrigerator.
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SECTION 2 • FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS 2019
Roesing Furniture
Building Family Relationships Since 1902
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FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS 2019 • SECTION 2
Page 21
SUBMITTED PHOTO Family Owned and Operated
Stebnitz Builders Inc. is at 204 Commerce Court, Unit 3, in Elkhorn. The family owned and operated construction company has been serving the community for nearly half a century.
Stebnitz Builders: A FAMILY FOUNDATION FOR 47 YEARS
Stebnitz Builders, Inc. is proud to be celebrating its 47th year of service to Walworth and surrounding counties. Founded by Stan Stebnitz in 1972, original projects were limited to general carpentry work and the occasional addition. With the help of Stan’s three sons, Dave, Gary and Dan, the company grew and was recognized for its quality and integrity. “The three key principles my father committed to from the beginning resonate within our team today,” said Dan Stebnitz, Production Advisor and Estimator for the company. “Always do what’s right, provide service like you expect to be served and NEVER walk-away from a project.” In 1985, the brothers approached their dad and purchased the business. They wasted no time implementing their growth plans, which began with a new headquarters in Delavan and an expansion of their service offerings. They also added key members to the team to further enhance the client experience, which was so important to each of them. The tradition of family ownership and involvement continued when Dave’s son,
Chris Stebnitz, purchased the business in 2005 and became the company’s thirdgeneration owner. “Our team culture has the same goals today, to ensure our clients are well-served now and in the years to come,” Chris said. “That approach is something that’s critically important to our team and the family name. It’s a focus that will allow this company to continue my grandfather’s legacy by serving Walworth County for another 47 years.” In an effort to be more easily accessible to their clients and allow for continued growth, Stebnitz Builders moved from their headquarters in Delavan to the hub of Walworth County at the interchange of highways 43 and 67. Their new location, 204 Commerce Court in Elkhorn, provides an easier access for clients traveling from anywhere in the county. Great designs and quality results are a time-proven standard at Stebnitz Builders. But, today, their focus has broadened, embracing 21st century technology to enhance the client experience.
Communication, visually and verbally, with the use of tomorrow’s technology is taking the client experience to a whole new level. Collaborating through Houzz, 3-D design and virtual walk-throughs allow their clients to truly experience their renovated space before it even begins. An expansive presence on the internet, including social media sites, homeowner reference sites and a comprehensive website allow homeowners to gather great information about Stebnitz Builders and the plethora of products and materials they may be considering for their project. The company culture at Stebnitz Builders encourages regular client communication. Their team of consultants, production managers, carpenters and office staff all pride themselves on proactive and responsive communication. “Our clients want and deserve to be in-the-know. Remodeling can be a scary and invasive process; our level of regular communication and availability make us a 24-7 home advisor and information funnel for our clients and homeowners. Phone,
text, email, go-to-meetings, messenger, and face-time, just to name a few, make us reachable and accessible,” said Chris Stebnitz Delivering great client service and an exceptional client experience is evident by the many accolades and awards they’ve received. One such measurement is the use of Guild Quality, a third-party survey firm who contacts clients after project completion for an in-depth, detailed survey/ report about their remodeling experience. Those most recent results are constantly updated and accessible for all to see. “We love the transparency Guild Quality provides us in our efforts to continually improve. Our 99 percent referral rate from those client surveys has earned us our sixth consecutive Excellence in Customer Service and another Guildmaster Award … I couldn’t be more proud of our team,” said Chris Stebnitz. If you are interested in a home improvement project of any size, reach out to them – they’ll be ready to listen! For more information, see the ad on Page 17.
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SECTION 2 • FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS 2019
SUBMITTED PHOTO Family Owned and Operated
James and Stevie Taylor (left and right) celebrate with veteran Ted Cvikota who was the fifth veteran recipients to receive a new roof from James R. Taylor and
Sons since their Military on Top program began in 2014. Employees, family and the community helped contribute to the day.
Area builder puts the ‘Military on Top’
James R. Taylor and Sons celebrates five years of helping veterans It started from a simple social media post where a veteran had shared a photo BY Tracy Ouellette EDITOR of a broken garage door asking for help and the owners of James R. Taylor and Sons saw it. “I turned to Stevie, my wife, and said, “What can we do?” James Taylor recalled. So, they brainstormed ideas to help out local veterans with their resources and decided on replacing a roof for a vet. “Once we came up with the idea, everyone was on board,” James said. “From there, we had to decide what to call it and since it was a roof it made sense to say we were putting the Military on Top and that’s what we did,” James said. From there the process involved setting up the legalities of the grant program and getting the word out. “We contacted the newspapers and I took down one of our billboards and replaced it with the Military on Top,” James said. “Now we have it on all of our trucks, so it’s out there all the time, but the first year we had to do it differently.” After that was in place, they enlisted the help of the East Troy American Legion Loomis-Martin Post 188 to assist in choosing the recipient. “Tom Senft (post commander) has been a great help through out all of this,” James said. “They pick out who will get the roof each year and it’s always someone who is so humble and grateful.
“Every single year, without exception, when we announce who will be getting the roof, they tell us to give it to someone who’s need is greater, that they will be okay on their own. I have to tell them that’s not how this works and they will be getting the roof. It makes me smile every time.” James said the nomination process ends April 1 each year and the recipient is announced at the Memorial Day observances at East Troy Village Square Park. The recipients are notified in advance so they can be at the park for photos of them receiving the grant. Since its inception, five veterans have been awarded a new roof. They are: Ted Cvikota, 2018; Amanda Debaere, 2017; Larry Weber, 2016; Phil Schultz, 2015; and Francis Brady, 2014. Debaere is a Genoa City resident and the other three veterans were East Troy residents. James said the program is open to all Walworth County residents and the nomination form and more information can be found at www.jrtaylorandsons.com under the “contact” tab. “We get about 10 to 12 nominations each year, but we really want to see that snowball,” he said. “All the guys love doing this. Everybody from the company is there and other family members and we have volunteers that show up too. It’s a great day. I have T-shirts made for everyone and we have so much fun. “It wouldn’t be what it is without this awesome team.”
A little history of the company James said he is the third generation to own the company and he moved it to East Troy in the early 1980s. “My grandfather started my father in this business and now it’s me and my wife, Stevie, running it,” he said. The Taylors employ about 20 people, including workmen and office staff.
SUBMITTED PHOTO Family Owned and Operated
James R. Taylor and Sons owners, James and Stevie Taylor, support area veterans with their Military on Top program.
Along with roofing, Taylor and Sons offers remodeling services, with a showroom in East Troy, window replacement, siding, kitchens and baths, and even new construction. For more information, visit the company’s website, call at 262-642-7970 and see the ad on Page 26.
BIG CLEARANCE! FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS 2019 • SECTION 2
Page 23
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Page 24
SECTION 2 • FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS 2019
ELKHORN Motors The “Last” of the Small Town Dealers Owned & Operated
by the Last Family for 85 84 years
MaryMary Mary EhlenEhlen Ehlen
700 Milwaukee 700 Milwaukee Avenue Celebrating 125 years ofAvenue serving families Mary Mary Ehlen Ehlen 700 Milwaukee Avenue 5506 State Rd. 11 Mary Ehlen Burlington, Burlington, WI 53105 WI 53105 Burlington, WI 53105 Elkhorn, WI 53121 700 Milwaukee 700 Milwaukee Avenue Avenue 700 Milwaukee Avenue 5506 State Rd. 11 (262) 763-2535 (262) 763-2535 Burlington, Burlington, WI 53105 WI 53105 (262) 763-2535 (262)WI 723-3291 Burlington, WI 53105 Elkhorn, 53121 Fax: (262) Fax:763-2381 (262) 763-2381 (262) 763-2535 (262) 763-2535 Fax: (262) 763-2381 (262) 763-2535 (262) 723-3291 mehlen@ketterhagenmemorials.com mehlen@ketterhagenmemorials.com Fax: (262) Fax:763-2381 (262) 763-2381 Fax: (262) 763-2381
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FREE SAMSUNG GALAXY S10e WHEN YOU SWITCH
Serving Burlington and the surrounding communities since 1998! Store hours Mon - Fri: 9a - 7p Sat: 9a - 5p Sun: 11a - 4p
Things we want you to know: New consumer or small business (25 lines or fewer) Total Plan line with Unlimited Plus Data and port-in required. Purchase of a qualifying device via a $0 down, 0% APR 30-month Retail Installment Contract (RIC), credit approval and Device Protection+ required. Tax due at sale. All data on Unlimited Plus Plans automatically shift to 2G speeds when each line reaches 25GB. The speed you receive will depend on many factors, including, but not limited to, your data plan terms, the device you use, your distance from a cell tower, topography and the number of users on the network at the time of your session. A Regulatory Cost Recovery Fee applies; this is not a tax or government required charge. Additional fees, taxes, terms, conditions and coverage areas may apply and vary by plan, service and phone. Offers valid at participating locations only and cannot be combined. See store or uscellular. com for details. Device Protection+ starts at $9.99/month per smartphone. A service fee/deductible per approved claim applies. You may cancel anytime. Property insurance is underwritten by American Bankers Insurance Company of Florida and provided under a Master Policy issued to U.S. Cellular. You will be the certificate holder on U.S. Cellular’s Master Policy for loss/theft benefits. Service Contract Obligor is Federal Warranty Service Corporation in all states except CA (Sureway, Inc.) and OK (Assurant Service Protection, Inc.). Limitations and exclusions apply. See an associate or brochure for complete details. Offer applies to base-memory model only. OFFER DETAILS: Samsung Galaxy S10e: Regular price is $748.40 or $24.95/month, bill credit amount is $24.95/month; balance comes via a monthly bill credit on a $0 down, 0% APR 30-month RIC. Bill credit applied within three bill cycles and ends when balance is paid. Line must remain in good standing with required price plan for entire 30-month RIC. Customer may lose bill credit if price plan is changed. In the event of cancellation of service, customer will be responsible for the entire RIC balance. The Early Upgrade Program is not available with this offer. Limited-time offer. While supplies last. Trademarks and trade names are the property of their respective owners. ©2019 U.S. Cellular
9850374
We look forward to seeing you. Burlington Crossing Shopping Center 1709 Milwaukee Ave. (Next to Dollar Tree)
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FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS 2019 • SECTION 3
Page 25
A beautiful day for harvesting in the vineyard at Spirits of Norway Vineyard. Harvested grapes are brought up to the winery to run through the crusher, destemmer and then pumped into fermentation vessels.
Local vineyard and winery earns prestigious awards Spirits of Norway Vineyard & Winery comes up big in the latest International Wine Competitions. The Spirits of Norway Vineyard “Estate Collection” continues to wow wine judges. Topping the scorecards is “Attitude Adjustment” made from the hybrid Marechal Foch grape. “Attitude Adjustment” earned a Gold Medal in the 2018 San Francisco International Wine Competition. That is a huge accomplishment for a Boutique style winery from Wisconsin to earn a gold medal in California Wine Country. “Brianna” and “Marquette” also earned Silver Medals in that same competition. This one-acre vineyard and winery is family owned and located right here in the historic Town of Norway in Racine County. The meticulous care that is taken during the winemaking process is evident in the quality of their award winning wines. Winemaker Sandy Johnson states; “we want our wine enthusiasts to experience wine the way it’s meant to be hand crafted, naturally. Naturally grown grapes create pure artisan wines.” Spirits of Norway Vineyard is very well respected for growing the highest quality hybrid wine grapes for their healthy and delicious wines. Studies suggest that grapes are a heart healthy benefit source of abundant plant antioxidants. Locally made and handcrafted creates wines that are pure, artisanal and deliciously clean. Randy Larson, president of Spirits of Norway Vineyard has noticed a particular movement. “Wine enthusiasts would rather drink locally made wine from locally grown grapes. Wisconsin residents are very supportive of local grape growers and wineries,” he said.
Other 2018 awards “Marquette” was awarded a Double Gold Medal in the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition, “Attitude
SUBMITTED PHOTO Family Owned and Operated
Spirits of Norway Vineyard Winemaker Sandy Johnson gives out samples at a grocery store wine-tasting experience.
Adjustment” earned a Gold Medal and Best of Class at the Indy International Wine Competition at Purdue University, and “Petite Pearl” scored a Silver Medal in the Jefferson Cup Invitational Wine Competition in Kansas City Missouri. From the Finger Lakes region in the East to San Francisco in the West, this family owned vineyard and winery is earning prestigious awards coast to coast. For more information, see the ad on Page 39.
SUBMITTED PHOTO Family Owned and Operated
Spirits of Norway Vineyard President Randy Larson presents a quick harvest seminar to interested on lookers.
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SECTION 3 • FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS 2019
Local family business with quality you can trust, proudly serving Southeastern WI. We do more than just roofing! We cater to all your home improvement needs!
Roofing ● Siding ● Windows ● Kitchen ● Baths ● Remodeling
FREE Estimates ● Fully Insured Visit our website to nominate a veteran/active duty service member for a FREE roof!
262-642-7970
Follow us on: www.jrtaylorandsons.com
340793
Located in East Troy
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS 2019 • SECTION 3
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The Reed family of Al and Mary Reed (front), Jim (back from left), Kyle, Steve and Joe Reed is waiting to help you with all your furniture needs. Reed Furniture is at 820 N. Wisconsin St., Elkhorn. Visit shopreed.com for more information.
SUBMITTED PHOTO Family Owned and Operated
How long have you been in business? My family has owned BY Joe Reed and operated Reed CONTRIBUTOR Furniture since 1865. Often, while our customers are at the front counter, they notice our display showing the prior owners. It begins with a picture of my father, Steve, which was taken when he still had a full head of black hair, and it continues for four more generations of owners. The final photo of the founder John Reed was taken in 1865. It is black and white and he wears a stern, serious look on a bearded face. It was, after all, taken before people smiled when they had their picture taken. In fact, to put that date in perspective, 1865 was the year the Civil War ended, there was no speed limit and peanut butter had just been invented. It is a date that often elicits a “guffaw” from customers when after seeing the display of the previous owners they inevitably ask, ‘How long have you been in business?’ I usually answer that question with a very brief overview. However, if you care to read it, the following is a somewhat more detailed answer.
Our original store was founded in 1865 by John Reed in Palmyra. Not soon after, in 1871, the store was moved to 41 N. Wisconsin St., Elkhorn, which is the present location of Friends on the Square. As was often the case, stores of the time did more than just a single specialty item such as furniture. Wallpaper, blinds, carpeting, picture framing, baby carriages, bicycles and even go carts were products we offered in addition to furniture. Then, when Albert J. Reed, John’s son, became involved with the store in the 1870s he expanded further by opening the Reed Funeral Home. Although the funeral home and furniture store were never on the same premises, it was common at the time for the two industries to work together and share resources because they both needed a supply of quality lumber and craftsman. Birdell Reed, AJ’s son, took over in the 1920s. He carried on the work of his predecessors and was responsible for building the new furniture store that opened in 1957 at our still current location of 820 N. Wisconsin Street. When he built the new store he also sold the funeral home, and we
became a store that specialized in furniture and carpeting. In 1957 Birdell Reed retired and turned the store over to his two sons, Al and Mike Reed. Throughout the 60s and 70s times were tough because of the war, but we survived by selling quality products at an honest price. In the 1980s the economy improved considerably and home construction increased. During that period we were able to expand our showroom and warehouse space. Then, in 1990, we left the carpeting business and transitioned to focusing exclusively on furniture. In 1995 Reed Furniture was voted by the Wisconsin Furniture Association as store of the year for single location stores. It was an honor to receive the award, which we believe speaks to the idea of how we do business, which is by treating both our customers and suppliers with respect. Mike Reed retired in 1991 and Al retired in 1997. They are followed by Al’s son Steve Reed who began working full time in 1973 at the age of seventeen. He took over the principal buying and managing duties in 1986 and maintains the position to this
day. In 1998 the store was victim to a wind shear that tore the roof completely off one half of the building. Thankfully, through the support of the Elkhorn community, the damaged areas were rebuilt and Reed Furniture continues to this day to sell quality furniture for every room in your home. That somewhat lengthy answer to the question, ‘How long have you been in business?’ brings us up to the present day. My name is Joe Reed and along with my brother Jim we look forward to continuing the business for yet another generation. The furniture business is always changing but we still believe that quality furniture that is built-to-last is worth the investment. It lasts longer, looks better, is more comfortable and will cost less in the long run. We invite you to visit and to give us the chance to demonstrate the products, service and commitment to quality responsible for keeping us in business for as long as we have been. Joe Reed and his brother Jim Reed own Reed Furniture in Elkhorn. See the Reed Furniture ad on Page 23 for more information about the company.
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SECTION 3 • FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS 2019
MADE
Fresh Daily
Area pizza parlor focuses on good food and quality service When the owner’s BY Tracy Ouellette of Roma’s Pizza II EDITOR decided to close down their Waterford location, they offered two long-time employees at East Troy’s Roma’s Ristorante & Lounge the chance to open their own pizzeria. “We’ve been in the business for 16 years prior to opening our own restaurant. I was a waitress and Luis (Torres) has been in the kitchen and when the (Galluzzo) family offered it to us, it just seemed like the thing to do,” Pops’ Pizzeria co-owner Danielle Kopling said. The Italian restaurant opened in the Cornerstone Crossing strip on Dec. 15, 2017, and has built a solid clientele over the past 10 months. “Time does fly,” Torres said. “It seems like we just opened, I can’t believe it’s been almost a year.” The Burlington couple said their pick up and delivery business has kept them “very busy,” especially on Sunday, during
the Green Bay Packer games and most recently, the Milwaukee Brewer games. “It was a double header today,” Kopling said Sunday afternoon. “With both the Packers and the Brewers playing we’ve been making pizzas all day.” Kopling and Torres have also been investing in the restaurant’s dining room, which seats about 50 people. “We’ve tried to make it cozy and inviting here in the dining room to attract more traffic and it seems to be working,” Kopling said. But what really makes it work is the quality of the food, Kopling added. Chef Torres has created all the recipes for the restaurant and insists on fresh ingredients. “We make everything daily, from shredding the fresh mozzarella to the pizza dough,” Kopling said. “I make our own salsa and pizza sauce
See PIZZA PARLOR, Page 29
for Every Occasion...
TRACY OUELLETTE Family Owned and Operated
Danielle Kopling and Luis Torres, owners of Pop’s Pizzeria in Waterford, are building a loyal clientele with their hand-made pizzas and specialty dishes. The Burlington couple opened the restaurant in the Cornerstone Crossing in late 2017.
• ADA friendly
• Daily luncheon & dinner specials
• Wide variety of leagues
• Serving pizzas, pastas, and sandwiches daily
• Birthday Parties
• Full-service bar
• Full-Service Pro-Shop
Family owned Since 1987 Steve & Julie Nelson
• Volleyball & Horseshoes Lighted courts
• Banquet hall to accommodate parties from 20-225 - Weddings, birthdays, class/family reunions, business luncheons
• Open daily at noon
• Custom catering
(262) 534-Pins (7467)
Burlington Dairy Queen
(262) 514-food (3663)
Waterford’s finest recreation facility 196424
324 S. Pine St., Burlington • 763-9385
• Delivery
730 Cornerstone Crossing Waterford, Wi 53185 Celebrating 13 years of serving the Waterford community!
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FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS 2019 • SECTION 3
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INSURANCE AGENCY
Celebrates 100 years
With a focus on customer relationships
For a century, May’s Insurance has provided insurance for a variety of sectors, and the owners attribute the longevity to three key components. BY Jason Arndt Those components are STAFF WRITER customer loyalty, valuable employees and a family atmosphere. “We are insuring three generations of people,” said co-owner Mike Deans, whose partners are father-in-law Jim Peterson and Joel Weis. “We have some accounts that are 70 years old.” Weis, the son of retired past owner Jim Weis, said May’s Insurance has about 2,500 clients spanning at least 10 states. May’s Insurance, located in the former Bank of Burlington building at Pine and
Chestnut streets, consists of nearly a dozen employees who have shown their dedication to service. “Our employees have been around for quite some time and we value them greatly,” said Jim Peterson, who joined the agency in 1978, when the business experienced growth. Peterson, a former commercial banker, once worked in the same building when it was a bank. While the building was familiar, and he had commercial business knowledge, learning insurance terminology was another matter. “I was a commercial banker, so I was used to calling on businesses,” Jim Peterson said. “The insurance language was a completely new thing.” “I primarily spend my time on commercial property casualty and commercial health,” Peterson added. May’s Insurance offers services in several categories – auto, home, and personal insurance; business insurance; life and health insurance; and group insurance. Joel Weis, whose father entered the business in 1960, said developing trust with
May’s Insurance celebrates a century this month in the City of Burlington. Partners credit a loyal customer base, valued employees and trust for the agency’s 100 years of service. James Peterson (back from left, James Weis, Joel Weis, Michael Deans, Gayle Koch, personal insurance; Sarah Boylen, life and
• Pizza parlor
customers has kept May’s Insurance prosperous.
Customer loyalty “We have been through some good years and some bad years like every other business,” he said. “We are fortunate to have some very loyal customers that represents some really great companies.” “I have learned that this is a business of trust and promises,” Weis added. Before he joined the agency in 1992, he began his career as a life insurance provider with Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance. Weis, who has licenses in multiple insurance segments, graduated with an accounting degree from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Deans, meanwhile, previously worked as a physical education teacher and football coach in South Milwaukee before returning to Burlington with his family around 2005. “It was a family decision, we are originally from Burlington,” he said. “My wife is the daughter of Jim Peterson.”
Humble beginnings
May’s Insurance started small in 1918, when George Weiler opened it in the Weiler Building. Years later, George Weiler brought his son-in-law, Francis May, into the agency. After several years of working together, Weiler sold the agency to May, who later welcomed his son, Jim May, into the ownership group. The father-son team moved the agency to West Chestnut Street. When Francis May decided to retire in 1960, Jim May partnered with brother-in-law Jim Weis. Following the passing of Jim May, Francis May returned to the agency until 1967 when Bob Thompson joined the group. As the agency grew, the owners saw a need for more space and decided to move into the former Bank of Burlington in 1972. Bill Weidert joined the agency in the summer of 1972 and served as a partner until his retirement in 1995. Jim Weis, who retired in 2015, eventually saw other partners join the firm, including Peterson, his son, and Deans.
health insurance; (front) Nicole Baumeister, business insurance; Ashley Foat, sales manager personal and business insurance; Mona Schuerman, personal insurance; Peggy Weidert, accounting and billing.
SUBMITTED PHOTO Family Owned and Operated
(Continued from page 28)
and dough from scratch,” Torres added. “The marinara and other sauces, too.” While the restaurant’s pizzas are the big seller, Torres’ lasagna has been a big hit. “I make a crazy amount of lasagna,” he said with a laugh. “The creamy chicken pesto seems to be big now too,” Kopling added. “And the pasta trio is always popular because it has a little bit of everything.” Pops’ also offers catering services,
which Kopling said many people don’t know about. “We do a lot of big orders for the schools and we’re always happy to have the teams come in to the dining room,” she said. “We sponsor a Wind Lake youth baseball team and a Waterford youth football team, so we love it when they come in.” She said reservations for large groups is preferred if possible. “It just helps up prepare so we can
give them the best experience possible,” Kopling said. The service aspect of owning a restaurant is something Kopling and Torres said they take seriously. “I hope they always receive their service with a smile,” Kopling said. “The food can be really great but if it’s not received with a smile it won’t taste as good.” “We treat everyone here like family,” Torres said. “We’re not just another pizza
place, everyone here is family. Pops’ Pizzeria is at 790 Cornerstone Crossing, Waterford. The restaurant is open from 3 to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and noon to 9 p.m. on Sunday. Kopling said they will open at 11 a.m. on Sunday if the Packers play at noon, so no one has to go without pizza for the game. For more information, visit popspizzeriawaterford.com or call 262514-2300.
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Community theaters offer more than just movies Small-town movie theaters rapidly BY Tracy Ouellette became a thing of the past when EDITOR the shift to huge multiplex cinemas became the norm, but in Burlington and Lake Geneva, people can still see the latest releases in a more intimate atmosphere. Shad Branen, who has owned The Plaza in Burlington for years and more recently purchased and renovated the Geneva Theater, offers movie goes a different experience. “We are a part of the community and our strengths are who we are in the community. As our logo says, ‘We Are Your Community Historic Hometown Theater’ and we offer a hometown experience.” Branen continues to invest in both the theaters, The Plaza is undergoing a facelift with a new paint job, ceiling and fabric panels in the theaters. Future plans for the Geneva Theater include the installation of an old theater organ from New York, sometime next year. The Plaza and Geneva Theaters are 90 years old and were originally built for that very purpose. “Both of those theaters were built in 1928 by a group of men who wanted community theaters,” said Marie Frederick, event coordinator for Branen’s theaters. “We’re so pleased to be still trying to do what they started those theaters for.” And while the two theaters do compete with the “big guys” for movie dollars, the small venues attract sizable crowds by offering a personal touch and communityorientated events. “We’ve made sure we’re offering things that the Marcus’ have like gift certificates, gift packages, beer and wine and food options but then we do things that a chain doesn’t do well, or can, and that’s the personal community touch like trivia contests before the premiers
and other activities,” Frederick said. Frederick said people like the fact that the theaters are family-owned by community members and have the knowledge that the money they spend at the theater goes back into their own community. “That’s what makes us special,” she said. “We know the people coming through the doors and they know us. I mean, who doesn’t remember their first movie? That’s important to have these community theaters open and thriving for families to make those lasting memories at.” One of the special moments at The Plaza and Geneva Theaters is when Branen or staff give the introductions to the new movies. It’s one of those personal touches that the community responds to, Frederick said. “That’s just one of those things we do that bigger theaters don’t,” Branen said. “The experience is different here because we’re different. We get to know our customers and they get to know us. “Community is such a part of Shad’s DNA,” she said. “There isn’t a week that goes by that he’s not donating movie passes, and he never raises an eyebrow at how many.” The Plaza is at 448 Milwaukee Ave., Burlington. For more information, call 262-763-6789 or visit www. plaza4.com. The Geneva Theater is at 244 Broad St., Lake Geneva. For more information, call 262-763-6789 or visit geneva4.com. Shad Branen, owner of The Plaza Theater in Burlington, says small-town community theaters offer a personal touch that large multiplexes can’t compete with. TRACY OUELLETTE Family Owned and Operated
Miller-Reesman Funeral Home is owned and operated by Glen and Rebecca Miller. Glen graduated from Milwaukee Area Technical College in 2000 with a degree in Funeral Science. Rebecca graduated from Marquette University in 1999 with a degree in Psychology and Criminology and Law Studies. Their paths crossed at the Milwaukee County Medical Examiner’s Office where Rebecca was working as a Forensic Investigator and Glen was working as the transporter for the Racine County Medical Examiner. One thing led to another, as they do, and they decided to go into business for themselves.
Kasuboski, Haas & Dahl Funeral Home & Cremation ServiCe
620 15th Ave. Union Grove, WI 53182 (262) 878-2500
232 Madison St. Burlington, WI 53105 (262) 763-2500
www.miller-reesman.com
Burlington Location Hours: Tues. & Thurs. 10 - 3, Also by appt.
Glen was a life-long resident of Union Grove prior to graduating and he felt a strong pull to move back home. As their family has grown, with three children now, so has the business. This couple started a small funeral home from scratch and it has grown exponentially since its inception in 2007. They see this success as being due to the fact that they see this work as a calling and feel that being able to provide solace to the grieving is a privilege and not a job. Glen and Rebecca have tried hard to keep their prices at or below the national average so that families are not placed in a financial hardship while they are experiencing emotional heartbreak. Doing all of the work themselves at first, they have added staff including an apprentice funeral director and several amazing part time employees who really do it all. The acquisition of Kasuboski, Haas, and Dahl Funeral Home in Racine (where Glen worked during his apprenticeship), an arrangement office in Burlington, and a major expansion to more than double the size of their Union Grove Chapel, have all added to their reputation. The staff at Miller-Reesman works to personalize each service to a family’s needs and wants. They add little touches to bring in the personality of the deceased loved one, from personalized memorial cards and video tributes to dressing up as Super Heroes when necessary! Special services are provided for our Military Veterans as well, including the exclusive “Hero’s Honor Hearse” and military cards and books for the family. 340658
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS 2019 • SECTION 3
Lynda Petlak has worked with flowers for more than 40 years. Here she packs numerous floral arrangements and gifts in preparation for one of the downtown Palmyra shop’s daily deliveries.
WAITING TO
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Bloom
TODD MISHLER Family Owned and Operated
Floral shop in Palmyra finds new home, seeking its niche By Todd Mishler COPY EDITOR
Lynda Petlak has enjoyed a nomadic business life. However, one aspect has remained constant — flowers. “I’ve been working with flowers since I was 13 years old,” the native of McHenry County, Illinois, said. “It’s been more than 40 years now, and I’ve almost always had two jobs, and at least one of them has involved a floral shop or greenhouse.” She operated a shop in Harvard, Illinois, for 17 years and then her travels led to several locations in the Southern Lakes region. “We started in Waukesha because all three of my kids attended Carroll University,” Petlak said. “Then we moved to Eagle and then to Palmyra.” That’s where she owns Blooming Perfection Floral Boutique, located at 111 N. Fourth St. “We bought this vacant property in August 2017 and gutted it out,” she said of the 110-year-old structure that her son and son-in-law remodeled. “I look at it as a sign from God … we’re right across from a funeral home.”
Blooming Perfection provides flowers for funerals, but also for showers, anniversaries, proms, birthdays, holidays and seasonal events, to name a few. Still, weddings are the floral shop’s No. 1 calling card. She and her daughter, Amy, lead two of the three busy wedding crews, offering bridal bouquets, corsages, boutonnieres and centerpieces while meeting other requests for that special day – they do 50 to 80 weddings annually. She works with the wire service 1-800-Flowers, but Petlak likes to create arrangements with personal touches and prefers to sit down and meet with customers at her old kitchen table in the new store whenever possible. “I make everything that I deliver to look like a present,” she said. “Everything I do here has my name and number on it, and that’s who they call.” Blooming Perfection makes one or two delivery runs daily, traveling to such locales as Fort Atkinson, Whitewater, Mukwonago and North Prairie to Big Bend and the Milwaukee suburbs. In addition to flowers, the business sells gourmet and fruit baskets, chocolates, plants and other gifts.
TODD MISHLER Family Owned and Operated
Lynda Petlak and her family purchased this rundown building on North Fourth Street in Palmyra in August 2017. Blooming Perfection Floral Boutique opened for business this past Mother’s Day.
“We’re a full-service floral shop, but we offer gift baskets and will do all of your holiday wrapping,” she said. “I’m still figuring things out, and once I find my niche I’ll start advertising. For now, it’s all word-of-mouth. “I haven’t done retail in awhile, but I know how to do it … I’ve had to take a breath because of my aging parents, who
are both in their 80s,” Petlak added. “So I think, once we get settled in by next year, I’ll be offering some craft classes and know where to put more resources.” Blooming Perfection Floral Boutique is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and 9 a.m. to noon Saturdays. For more information, visit bloomingperfectionfloral.com.
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MAAS & SONS WELL PUMP & PLUMBING COMPLETE WATER TREATMENT & WELL WATER SYSTEMS
We also offer Wells, Pump Cleaning & Plumbing
262-534-2170 www.maaswaterworks.com
2807 Beck Dr., Waterford, WI 53185
Since 1919
340557
ŶĚƌĞǁ EĂďĞƌ KǁŶĞƌ
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FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS 2019 • SECTION 3
Welcome to Sperino’s
Page 33
Aune family members Colin, Sherry, Cory, Chris and Kristin are ready to serve you at Sperino’s. The familyowned and operated organization, which includes Sperino’s restaurant, Pepperoni Pub and the Monte Carlo Room, is at 720 N. Wisconsin St. in Elkhorn. For more information, visit www.sperinos.com and see the ad on Page 6. SUBMITTED PHOTO Family Owned and Operated
SUBMITTED PHOTO Family Owned and Operated
SUBMITTED PHOTO Family Owned & Operated
Welcome to Korey’s Auto Kare
Korey Kuehni (pictured) and his wife Jennifer Kuehni own and operate Korey’s Auto Kare at 416 S. Seventh St. in Delavan. For more information, call 262-7282886, visit www.koreysautokare.com and see the ad on Page 14.
Welcome to Pete’s Tire
The staff at Pete’s Tire, 1520 N. Fairway Lane in Elkhorn, is ready to help with your automotive needs. Pete’s Tire was founded in 1992 by Pete Brock. He had worked in the tire industry for about 15 years before venturing out on his own. He started his own business out of a leased building. After seven years, Pete was adventurous and decided that he should start yet another shop in Elkhorn. With the help of his eldest daughter, Rebecca, and his son-in-law, Mike, they bought out Consumer’s Co-op. Rebecca and Mike were appointed to oversee this location. For more information, call 262-723-2906 visit www.petestireinc.com and see the ad on Page 8.
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FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS 2019 • SECTION 3
Page 35
History OWNING A LITTLE BIT OF
Restaurant owners say historical property is a labor of love
When Reenie and Dave Allen first looked at BY Tracy Ouellette EDITOR the East Troy House 14 years ago when they were considering buying property, they weren’t impressed. “We said ‘Hell no, we’re too old and this needs way too much work,” Dave Allen said with a laugh. But something about the property keep Dave coming back for a second, third, fourth look. “I remember Barb Holtz, the chamber director at the time, took me through it and she asked if I could ‘see them?’ And I didn’t know what she was talking about but she pointed over to a corner of the room and said ‘Over there, the people dressed in 18th century garb, they’re nodding their approval,’” he continued. And that, according to Dave, was when the history of the property became real to him. “She introduced us to the ghosts and that’s what caught us, the history,” Dave said. Over the years, the Allens have hosted ghost hunters and the property is featured on the East Troy Area Historical Society’s semi-annual Ghost Walk. The East Troy House is the oldest building on the East Troy Village Square, Dave said, and is Wisconsin’s oldest inn and tavern. The original building was a log cabin, constructed in 1836. The building the Allens purchased and have renovated was constructed in 1842 by Emery Thayer. Although Dave was slowly coming on board with the idea of purchasing the property, Reenie said she wasn’t as sure. For five months, Dave made trips out to the East Troy House, without Reenie, before they purchased the property in May of 2005. “Things on the Village Square were different back then,” Reenie recalled. “Fourteen years ago the square was pretty much empty.” More than a decade later, the East Troy Village Square has seen a revitalization with new businesses and investments. The Allens ownership and restoration of the East Troy House and Ivan’s is considered by many to have “kicked off” the square’s resurgence as a “destination.” “It was a risk for us, definitely,” Reenie said. “But when I look around the square today and see what’s happened, I’m so glad
we took the chance.” One question people have been asking the Allens recently is if the new East Troy Brewery, which opened on the Village Square in December, is hurting their business. “The more people who come into town the better,” Reenie said. “The more bustling the square is, the better. We all have something unique to offer and we all stick together. That was the whole idea when we started this. This was our goal, to see the square built back up.”
Getting it in shape The renovations needed on the boarding house and Ivan’s on the Square 14 years ago were extensive, the Allens said. They had plumbing issues, electrical, drainage issues, a third floor full of stuff left behind from
TRACY OUELLETTE Family Owned and Operated
Dave and Reenie Allen are the owners of the East Troy House, Ivan’s on the Square and Ivan’s Backstage. The couple purchased the historical property 14 years ago and reinvented the boarding house and restaurant. At left: The Beer Cheese Burger is one of the most popular menu items at Ivan’s on the Square and the East Troy House; Dave Allen, owner of East Troy House and Ivan’s on the Square, with his wife, Reenie, says the Salmon Risotto is one of his favorite menu items. Reenie manages the food service at the establishment where Marty Marsh is the executive chef.
previous tenants and a host of other needs, large and small, that had to be attended to before they could turn the property into a viable business venture. From removing the seven layers of flooring in the building to restoring the original tin ceilings, the Allens said they have tried to keep the historical aspect of the décor intact. “You wouldn’t believe the stuff we came across,” Dave said. “The first night I stayed out here I used the shower the next morning and I didn’t know that the pipes were disconnected. Water was pouring in downstairs.” While Reenie said she didn’t come out to the property for the first full year of renovation, Dave was in East Troy almost every day. “We lived in Greendale at the time and he was going back and forth a lot,” she said.
“But he loved it.” Dave said the long months of renovation were a challenge, but he was determined to keep the building open. “I had originally thought to close it down and renovate, but then I learned that the East Troy House had never been closed in it’s entire history, so I knew I couldn’t do that,” he said. While keeping the establishment open had some drawbacks, Dave said it also had an upside. “I became very connected to the community during the construction,” he said. “People would stop in just to see what was going on and what we were doing. “I remember one lady who came in and thanked me for taking on the project because her mom had been born here in 1904 and she was always embarrassed to tell people that because the East Troy House was so run down,” he recalled. “This is such a great community,” Reenie added. “It’s like living in Mayberry, it really is.”
Expanding at Ivan’s A few years back the Allens renovated the former bowling alley behind the East Troy
House into a special events venue, complete with a stage. Ivan’s Backstage holds up to 100 people and the Allens work with organizations like the Off the Square Players in East Troy to host plays and other entertainment throughout the year. The restaurant, Ivan’s on the Square, is Reenie’s domain, Dave said. “She’s here every day and she runs everything,” he said. Reenie said the menu for both Ivan’s and the East Troy House is the same now, where it wasn’t in the past. “You can get everything in both places instead of the pared down menu we used to have at the East Troy House. People are liking that,” she said. Executive Chef Marty Marsh, of East Troy, has been with the Allens for close to three years and offers a wide variety of pub fare from the Salmon Risotto to the Beer Cheese Burger, two of the restaurant’s biggest sellers. “And the fish fry is always popular on Fridays,” Reenie added. The East Troy House/Ivan’s on the Square is at 2087 Division St. in East Troy. For more information, visit www. ivansonthesquare.com.
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PROUD TO BE
A.O. BAuer glAss, inc.
HernAnDeZ MeXicAn restAurAnt
k&D HeAting AnD cOOling
NEW LOCATION!
903 e. geneva st. Delavan, Wi 53115
212 south 7th st. Delavan, Wi 53115
Delavan, Wi 53115
262-949-1892
262-728-4262 BLISHED 1958 ESTA
262-728-6443
BLISHED 2007 ESTA
BLISHED 1965 ESTA
237
340
eAst trOY sePtic services
tHe JeWelrY center
stanley Walter septic s65 W22240 national Ave. Waukesha, Wi 53189
348 n. Pine street Burlington, Wi 53105
262-763-8685 ShopTJC.com
BLISHED 2004 ESTA
BLISHED 1953 ESTA
BLISHED 1959 ESTA 237
604 e. Walworth Ave. Delavan, Wi 53115
262-843-3636
BLISHED 2013 ESTA
262-728-3353
BLISHED 1976 ESTA 340
547
914
MOnrOe FunerAl HOMe & creMAtiOn services
8517 Antioch road salem, Wi 53168
262-767-0700
274
256
sAleM AutO service
oneworldtravel.agentstudio.com
B&J tree & lAnDscAPe services, inc.
262-642-5364
243
925 Milwaukee Ave. Burlington, Wi 53105
546
W2795 krueger road lake geneva, Wi 53147 Ph: 262-248-3653 Fax: 262-248-0340
237
One WOrlD trAvel
340
250
545
BLISHED 1952 ESTA 309
893
309
895
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FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS 2019 • SECTION 3
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FAMILY OWNED stinebrink’s piggly wiggly
toynton funeral home
nieuwenhuis bros., inc 1407 racine st. Delavan, wi 53115
1414 e. geneva st. Delavan, wi 53115
328 kenosha street walworth, wi 53184
262-728-8155
262-728-2638 BLISHED 1974 ESTA
262-275-2171
BLISHED 1954 ESTA 340
237
east troy mini storage
19319 washington ave. union grove, wi 53182 www.countryrosebakery.com
BLISHED 2005 ESTA
436 n. pine st. burlington, wi 53105
262-642-7031
262-763-2811
BLISHED 1978 ESTA
BLISHED 1908 ESTA
340
274
539
274
916
917
Dan-tone garage
roth heating company, inc.
huemann well & pump
255
itzin’s shoes & repair
2832 school street east troy, wi
262-878-5474
237
538
253
country rose bakery & cafe
BLISHED 1941 ESTA
Dan & Adam Szpak
39608 60th st. burlington, wi
107 n. milwaukee st. waterford, wi
262-539-2399
262-534-5568
www.huemannonline.com
www.rothheating.com
dantonegarage.com
BLISHED 1994 ESTA
BLISHED 1969 ESTA
BLISHED 1979 ESTA
340
549
348 s. pine st. burlington, wi
262-763-4665
340
552
340
553
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A BY
Tracy Ouellette EDITOR
in time
Area embroidery shop specializes in smaller orders
but we’re open for things like Midnight Magic and my friend comes in to help us run orders of ready-made items. We always have a sale that night and she comes in so we have an extra body.”
For more than 16 years, Dragonfly Embroidery has been providing services to the Mukwonago and surrounding area out of a shop on Highway 83, but moved a couple to a larger store on Main Street late last year. “We needed more space, we were really at capacity and this shop has a lot more room,” Dragonfly owner Kerry Luecht said. “We do a lot of spirit wear for Mukwonago and East Troy and now we have room to display items on racks and it’s easier for people to come in and peruse things. We are set up a little more like a department store now.” Luecht is from Eagle and started in the embroidery business two decades ago with another embroidery company. She operates the shop with Manager Erika Preuss. Luecht said the two enjoy working with each other and, in a pinch, she has a friend who comes in to help out. “Most of the time it’s just Erika and me,
“I started working part time for Scott Gillette when he had a shop in the back of his dad’s gas station out in Eagleville,” Luecht said. “My kids went to the Eagleville schools so it was easy for me to run over there to help him out.” Luecht said she worked for Gillette for several years learning the trade and expanding her knowledge of the machines uses in the process. “I was familiar with sewing machines, but not embroidery machines and he took me on,” she recalled. “He was the sole owner at the time and he taught me to hoop, thread the machines and run them.” Luecht said as Gillette’s company expanded he began to hire on more and eventually moved his operations. “Worked for him for quite a few years and then he moved, but he opened an outlet store in the old location with limited hours,
How it all began
HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 7-5:30; Sat. 7:30-3; Sun. 10-1
1024 10th Ave. Union Grove, WI
TRACY OUELLETTE Family Owned and Operated
Dragonfly Embroidery owner Kerry Luecht and store mascot, Maverick, at the shop’s new location, 507 Main St., Suite 200, in Mukwonago.
so I worked there part time. That really didn’t work out for Scott, so he closed down the outlet location but I was thinking there was a need for a small embroidery shop still in the area.” Luecht said she asked Gillette if it would be okay with him if she started her own shop, which would specialize in the smaller orders and anything she couldn’t handle, she would refer to Gillette. “He was OK with it, so I started off with a single-head embroidery machine where I
could do orders with just one or two or a little more and if I got a bit order I just sent them over to Scott,” Luecht said. Over time, Luecht expanded her business, purchasing a four-head machine, so she could do four items at a time. “We can handle just about any orders in house now,” Luecht said. The store hours of operation are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday. For more information, visit www.dragonflyembwi.com.
262-878-1214 Union Grove Lumber has been serving the area since 1972 Handling all of your project needs, new construction, remodeling, large or small. We handle a very large product offering, such as Marvin and Anderson Windows, Western Building Products, Dura Supreme Cabinets, Iko Shingles, USG Drywall Products and a full service lumber yard with quality building products. We also have a fully stocked True Value Hardware store with a knowledgeable staff, working inside and outside to help you with all of your needs. Just a reminder, behind every project is a True Value! SUBMITTED PHOTO Family Owned and Operated
The Brothers Nieuwenhuis
The Nieuwenhuis Bros., Inc. is a third-generation family business in Delavan. Nieuwenhuis Bros. has been serving the cities of Delavan, East Troy, Elkhorn, Lake Geneva, Whitewater and all of the Walworth County area for more than 50 years – family owned and operated since 1954. Pictured are owners Eli, Pete and Bob Nieuwenhuis. For more information, see their ad on Page 14.
DESIGN DIV. OF UNION GROVE LUMBER 340654
Family owned for 85 years
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS 2019 • SECTION 3
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Elkhorn Motors, 910 N. Wisconsin St. in Elkhorn has been family owned and operated for 85 years. Billed as the “last of the small-town dealers” Elkhorn Motors offers hometown service with big city amenities. For more information, visit www.elkhornmotors.com, call 262-723-2131 and see the ad on Page 24.
SUBMITTED PHOTOS Family Owned and Operated
A Boutique Winery in the toWn of norWAy, Wisconsin Wine Baskets
FREE DELIVERY
MINIMUM PURCHASE (4) BOTTLES. DELIVERY WITHIN 20 MILES OF WINERY
Custom Wine Labels
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Visit our on-Line wine store
340556
WWW.SPIRITSOFNORWAYVINEYARD.COM
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SECTION 3 • FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS 2019
online parts and service
Your Full Service Grilling Headquarters
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Neighborhood Expert
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17 S. Washington, Elkhorn (262) 723-3477 online parts & service: www.lylestv.com
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