Westlie Motor Company has served the area for over 95 years, and more amazing is the longevity of their employees. Steve Blasing, owner, summed it up: “It’s not the bricks and mortar that makes a company successful; it’s the people. How many businesses can say 43 members of their staff have been with the company for over 10 years or that 20 of those employees have actually been there 25 years and longer”

With five locations and 170 employees, 2016 celebrated some major milestones in longevity at Westlies.

Bill Braun has worked in the parts department of Westlie Motors for 55 years. Starting in 1961, Braun has seen major changes in the auto industry. Not only the technology, but think of the safety features on today’s cars: seatbelts, airbags, sensing systems, backup cameras, self-parking and so much more.

Gary Wunderlich, who has been with Westlies for 45 years, started in the Service Dept in 1971 and moved to sales in ’81. Wunderlisch is working with the third generation of many of his customers. He has earned some of the highest awards from Ford, including taking the “e2 Excellence” Top award overall in the entire Twin Cities Region.

In addition to Wunderlich and Braun, six employees celebrated 40-plus years and another six celebrated 30 years or more.

“The long-term success of Westlie Motors is an example of the kind of success still possible even today,” said Blasing. “We are extremely thankful for our loyal customers, and our entire team.”