Grand Haven, MI (WGHN) – A Wednesday morning blaze leveled Dick’s Towing, ending nearly seven decades of service in the community. Owner Bruce Hoisington was at the shop, located just off U.S.-31, when the fire broke out around 11:30 a.m. He and his brothers, Kal and Harold, have worked there for more than 45 years and took over ownership nine years ago.
Fox 17 reports that Hoisington said he and three others were taking a coffee break after working on a vehicle in a back room when they noticed smoke drifting past the rear door. When they opened it, the vehicle inside was already fully engulfed in flames. They attempted to extinguish the fire with a hose, but heavy smoke quickly filled the area and forced them back.
The building is considered a total loss.
The Hoisington brothers began working at the business around 1980, and the shop became a central part of their lives. They grew up there, learning from the original owner and building memories alongside their families.
For now, the company will continue operating out of a mobile office while they evaluate their next steps. Hoisington said they are focused on getting through the immediate aftermath and have not yet decided whether they will rebuild.
The business had served the Grand Haven area for 68 years.
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