Ray and Margie Claussen started the business in 1959 along the east bank of the Iroquois river near where the walking bridge from Potawatomi Park is now. Equipment had to be driven down the hill behind the building into the back. It came to be at its new location on North McKinley after a fire in 1962 that almost closed the business. In September 2019 the business celebrated 60 years. As the years have gone by, things have changed and many have stayed the same. Starting as an Allis Chalmers dealership, several other product lines have been added, such as KIOTI, Simplicity, and Grasshopper machinery and parts. We will do our best to happily serve our clientele, from next door to states away, for many years to come.
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Ray and Margie Claussen:
Ray and Margie Claussen are the founders of Claussen Equipment. Ray was a man of many hats. Ray “retired” in 1987 but could be found working most days until he passed in 2012. Margie was full time bookkeeper for over 25 years, as well as being a home maker. |
(Left to right: Butch, Margie & Linda)
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Chris Claussen:
Chris is Ray's oldest grandson, and he is Butch and Mary's oldest son. Starting officially in 1993, he is now the head technician and shop foreman. Chris is responsible for the second half of our slogan: “We sell the best and service the rest.” He is working to become the third generation to run Claussen Equipment. |