All American Auto Under New Ownership

 

January 2, 1985. That is the day we opened All American Auto. Four partners, one floor jack, a frozen toilet and a dog named Charlie Buffalo, was all we had. Over the years we have grown, moved, closed, opened up again and evolved. A lot has changed over all these years. The vehicles themselves are vastly different than they were when we opened. The town has changed. The economy has changed. People have come and gone. We are now working on the vehicles of the children of our long-time customers. The shop continues to have a bright future and will be here to help serve the community for years to come. However, I will not be a part of that future. Nothing goes on forever and now is the time for me to step aside and allow the next chapter to unfold. I have sold All American Auto. Karl Benson, one of my staff, will be the new owner. Karl has been with me for three years and is ready to rise to the challenge of owning the shop. I hope our community will give him the same chance to earn their business that you have given me.

There are many people to thank for allowing me this opportunity. My family has been wonderful in supporting me all of these years. They were my motivation to work hard to succeed, and without their support I could never have done this. The originals partners created something out of nothing. I would love to take credit for most of the good ideas that launched this endeavor but most of them came from my partners. My staff, especially those that have been with me over these last years, made it possible for us to be there for you when you needed us. I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to work with such a fine group of professionals. Of course, even with all of these great people to help, none of this would have ever been possible with you, our community. You have allowed us to repair your vehicles, but you have allowed us much more than that. You have become part of our lives. We know you. We know your children. We know and support causes important to you. You have given us the opportunity to become part of this wonderful community we call home, and for that I am forever grateful.

Karl will take over on July 1, 2021. I will be on board for an additional 60 days in order to facilitate a smooth transition. Things will continue as they always have on a day-to-day basis, and we look forward to continuing to take care of your vehicle needs.

For myself, it is time to turn the page.

Thank you, Ketchikan, for making all of this possible.

Mark