Dealer/Owner Raymond Chevrolet, Raymond KIA
Position tenure: 37 years
Chairman, Chicago Auto Show and Board Chairman 2007-2008
Chairman, National Automobile Dealers Association, Washington D.C., 2017-2018 Represented 16,500 New car Dealers Nationally
Proud co-owner of a family business with Ray, Jr. and Raymond, Sr.
Honored Commencement speaker at my ala mater, Northwood University, 2017 and awarded an Doctor of Laws Degree
In your own words…
I was raised here and grew up in the auto business. My first job consisted of cleaning cars, working in our parts department, body shop and service and sales departments during in high school and college before I graduation. I had a unique opportunity to experience all areas of the dealership and work in each respective department. After college I was hired by General Motors, in the Boston area. They then moved me to Lansing Michigan where I was a traveling sales District Manager. A few years later, I knew my place was back home at our family business. That was was 37 years ago. Today, we’ve grown to 4 rooftops in 2 area communities employing more the 300 team members. I’m proud to continue my family’s legacy and hope for it to continue for many years to come.
Tell us about your charitable work…
I’m very proud to be a member of our great community. I was raised here and always remember our community and always want to see it prosper. I’ve had the great honor to donate to many organizations in our community. It has been so rewarding to be able to help many causes over the years, such as, Local Scouts Girls & Boys, all the grade and high schools, local drivers education programs, Open Arms Mission, Antioch Traveling Closet, local senior centers, Antioch Movie theater, annual Shop With a Cop at Christmas, Antioch Taste of Antioch, Antioch Historical Society, Annual Sailors Dinner at the VFW Hall, Antioch Lions Club Chicken BBQ annual car giveaway, numerous car donations over the years and many more that are done anonymously. Our community has been so great to us — I never forget and want to give back in any way we possibly can. I will never stop giving back!
It might surprise you to know…
We’ve sold over 75,000 automobiles in the last 25 years. We are in the top two contributors to Antioch’s tax base.
Favorite memory about our community
Growing up in the area, I attended St. Peter’s and then Antioch High School. Many of my classmates, who also grew up in the community, are local business owners, villiage trustees and educators.
Favorite sports teams
I love baseball and auto racing. The Cubs have always been a favorite and especially Ron Santo Cubs Great #10. Ron was a customer at our dealership and a personal family friend.
Favorite free-time activity
Boating, golf and cycling.
Favorite food
Italian, of course. My favorite Italian food in the area was for sure my moms! She made the best homemade meatballs and red sauce! THE BEST!
Favorite movie
I’ve always liked action movies. James Bond and Top Gun are on top of the list.
Favorite Quote/inspirational message
Don’t give up…never give up.
Greatest lesson you’ve learned
Life isn’t a sprint, take your time along the way.
