09/06/2024
Today, our family closes out one of the most memorable chapters of our life. Dutch Town Auto Brokerage is all we’ve known. It’s a legacy my Grandfather, Ray Crook, & Father, Kirby Crook, created before we were born and continued until todays keys were handed over. A family owned auto body shop that serviced our families, friends & strangers that became friends, large corporations like Anheuser Busch and Amerens vehicles over the course of 48 years.
Above this business, our family made memories with our Grandparents, Ray & Joyce Crook. It’s where we ended each day after school as kids. Our grandparents created memories that we’ll cherish the rest of our lifetime. From after school snacks or baking with Grandma, the most amazing breakfasts & dinners our Grandpa would create, to holiday memories that felt like they were pulled from a classic movie or a magazine. The magic this home brought was unimaginable.
Over the years, we’ve heard so many stories and witnessed so much joy from the 4 walls of this building, whether in our family home or family business. The friendships that my family has created from the service and love our father and grandfather shared is something we are eternally grateful for.
Our father has persevered and continued to run this business after the passing of both of our Grandparents. And after a very difficult decision, we have decided it’s best to end this chapter with his head held high and to pass along this legacy to someone else that we hope brings that same joy to the community.
Retirement is a funny thing. We all can’t wait to get there. We never thought this day would come that we empty our grandparents home and my dad & grandfathers business to close the doors and turn the key. But we made it. Dad, you’ve made it. Today we celebrate the 48 years you’ve put your blood, sweat, and tears into building a lifelong legacy and family business. Thank you for the memories.
Dutch Town Auto Body may be a shell of a building to some, but for us it’s been our lives, our story.. your story.
Congratulations on your first day of retirement Kirby Crook! While this chapter has come to a close, we’re thrilled to watch your next one begin. It’s the end of an era. We also want to thank Lucy & the Lou Realty Group team for all of your help. We couldn’t be more grateful for their patience & guidance every step of the way. And lastly, we thank every single one of you that made our family business what it was.
