Russelle Toyota, Peterborough, ON

The Russelle name has been associated with service since 1946 because of its employees and strong family involvement and the longevity connected to them. Dealership History In 1946 John Russelle, father of 11, opened Russelle's Garage. Located on Water Street in Peterborough, the garage included a gas station, vehicle repair shop and a 24-hour tow truck business. Ten years later, in 1956, sons Jack, Chuck and Bill bought out their father John and carried on the family business. In 1970 the Russelle brothers decided to add a used car lot and operate as Russelle Bros. Motors. Soon after, both Toyota and Moto-Ski approached Bill and Chuck to represent their products. The brothers expected Moto-Ski to carry the dealership, and took a chance on the new Toyota line. Little did anyone know what the future had in store. In 1973 the Moto-Ski franchise was dropped and the Toyota nameplate was moved to the front of the building. In 1980, Bill acquired the business from his brothers, with the sign now reading Russelle Toyota. As the business began to grow, additions were added to the once small store. A Body Shop was added offsite and the Water Street property was becoming very small. On September 1, 1988 Russelle Toyota opened its doors from its current location on Lansdowne Street and a new era began. In August of 1989, the youngest of 11 children Bob purchased the dealership from his brother Bill. Bob had worked as the Moto-Ski repairman, a Class "A" Licensed Technician, Parts Manager, Service Manager, Sales Manager, and General Manager and since 1989 as President. The dealership is still family owned and operated, with Bob's nephew Paul and his wife, Jean, and his two sons Jason and Joel. The Russelle name has been associated with service for 53 years because of the employees and family involved and the longevity connected to them and the Russelle name looks to continue another strong 53 years and beyond.