By Matthieu Vollmer

Business Writer

MARSHFIELD — Frank Vandehey and his partners opened their first Mid-State Truck Service location in Marshfield on Sept. 1, 1965. This year they are celebrating 50 years in business.

“We treat our customers like we want to be treated. We strive to be the most complete truck center in Wisconsin, if not the country,” said owner Tom Vandehey, a Marshfield native with over 25 years in the industry.

Mid-State Truck is a second-generation, family-owned and -operated business that now boasts roughly 240 employees at its six locations in central and western Wisconsin. On average, employee tenure is over 14 years.

In Wausau, where the company has a location, Mid-State Truck Service is actively involved with The Women’s Community, United Way, Northcentral Technical College, and several local chambers of commerce.

“One big thing for us is being active in the community and giving back,” said Tom.

“To the best of my knowledge, we purchased the first truck that Mid-State ever sold,” said William J. Mork, owner and president of Marshfield Furniture. “We have had an excellent working relationship with them.” According to Mork, Frank Vandehey (Tom’s father) sold the first truck to the then president and owner of Marshfield Furniture, Jay Conner, who is Mork’s father-in-law.

According to Tom, people would be surprised to know that they generate about $150 million in sales annually and that Mid-State carries the statewide school bus franchise for International Truck.

“We are very aggressive in all areas of our company, including in the lease business. We carry over 5 million in parts to get trucks back on the road as fast as possible,” said Tom.

The International Pro Star heavy duty tractor is among the company’s best sellers. According to Tom, this is the most fuel efficient Class A truck in the industry. Mid-State is also one of the only area dealerships that is equipped to work on compressed natural gas vehicles.

“I like to be involved in every facet of the business, not sitting in a corner office. I like to be hands on and out working with our people,” said Tom when asked what he likes most about his role at Mid-State.

In 1990 Mid-State Truck Service earned the “Firm of the Year” award from the Marshfield Area Chamber of Commerce & Industry for its good corporate citizenship and extensive community involvement.

Mid-State Truck of Marshfield is located at 2100 E. 29th St. To learn more about hours of operation, products, and services, call 715-406-4266 or visit midstatetruck.com.