Traverse City, September 30 (Community Business Feature) – In 1985, John Redmond and his young family moved to Traverse City on what he calls a “leap of faith.” Starting with no connections and no guarantees, he built Redmond Automotive into one of the region’s most trusted repair shops – and now, four decades later, he’s handing the keys to his children.
From Humble Beginnings to Trusted Brand
John grew up working with his father and brothers in Saginaw, focusing on auto accessories like cruise control, air conditioning, and sound systems alongside general repairs. As many customers were coming from northern Michigan, John decided to move closer to them.
He built his shop from scratch, winning over every customer with honesty, hard work, and reliability.
“In the automotive industry – in any industry really – honesty is your key,” John said. “You build that trust, and it takes time. The best advertising will always be word of mouth.”
A Family Business Through and ThroughThis September, John officially handed Redmond Automotive to his four children – Mike, Jacob, Dan, and Kate Gallagher – all of whom have worked alongside him for years.
The siblings, now ages 30 to 45, practically grew up in the shop. They recall learning tools and techniques at a young age, and even being chauffeured home in limousines and old trucks their father had to test-drive.
“We’re family, and we’re always together,” Dan said. “When the day ends here, we’re still showing up for a cookout. It’s just who we are.”
The third generation has already begun too – Mike’s son Gabe now works in the business.
Harmony in the Shop
Over decades of working together, the siblings have developed a smooth rhythm. Each understands the others’ strengths, and even customers tend to gravitate toward their preferred Redmond.
“Even though it sounds silly, we all have our own people that come in,” Mike said. “Someone only wants to talk to me, doesn’t want to talk to my dad or anyone else. I’m their guy.”
Jacob added, “Fortunately, we all get along. That’s a big plus.”
Carrying on the Legacy
John grew up working with his own father, John Sr., and always dreamed of continuing that tradition. He slowly tested his children’s commitment, and today he says they’ve proven themselves ready.
“They know a lot more at their age than I did,” John said. “They’ve learned from me, but also from themselves – and that’s maturity.”
For the siblings, taking over a successful business built on their father’s hard work is both an honor and a responsibility.
“What Dad did … it was the American dream,” Jacob said. “To be able to continue that, I don’t even have the words. It’s pretty awesome.”
Looking Ahead
While the siblings don’t plan on making drastic changes, they’re committed to steady improvements – investing in technology, tools, and education to keep Redmond Automotive competitive and relevant.
Mike summed it up: “If it isn’t broke, don’t fix it. But every day, you want to do better, build your client base, and take better care of people. Dad taught us that if you invest in the business, the business will take care of you.”
As for John, he’s not disappearing anytime soon.
“It’s been a great ride, and now I’m just pumping the brakes,” he said with a smile. “I still want to see my customers and stay involved. But the day-to-day is moving on to the next generation. When I stop having fun, that’ll be the time to go.”
