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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Butch Claussen:
Butch is Ray and Margie’s son. He is the salesman, runs the parts department, and much more. He has worked with the company since 1964. He will tell you he is retired but he still has a lot of knowledge to pass on and comes in every day. He enjoys long deliveries and when you can catch him in, he is overjoyed to chat in our showroom rocking chairs. |
Chris Claussen:
Chris is Ray's oldest grandson, and he is Butch and Mary's oldest son. Starting officially in 1993, he is now transitioning into the position of owner and holds just about every hat. Chris is responsible for the second half of our slogan: “We sell the best and service the rest” as he can truly fix anything, given enough time. |