Loyal and Diana Bell have been “Hooked on Froedge’s” for decades.
The longtime owners of the towing and auto and truck repair business at 700 Covington St. are retiring after 44 years.
A retirement celebration is planned from 4-10 p.m. Oct. 25 at the business. Customers and friends are invited to share memories with the couple as well as enjoy food and drinks. Entertainment will be provided by Steve Trent Music from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Lawn chairs are suggested.
The Bells said they recently sold the business. However, they did not disclose the name of the new owner. They did say that a current employee will oversee the day-to-day operations and the business will retain the Froedge’s name.
“We want to stress that nothing will change,” Diana said. “Our customers will still receive the best service possible. Froedge’s will still have the same staff to take care of all your auto and truck needs and we wish the new owner great success and hope the business will continue to be around for many more years to come.”
The 24/7 towing and recovery business also specializes in auto and truck repair, including tune-ups, brakes, engine and transmission replacement, oil and tire changes, shocks, batteries, air conditioning, diagnostics and more.
“We would like to thank the many people and businesses who have trusted us to take care of their vehicles over the years,” Diana said. “We have always tried to take care of our customers like we would want to be taken care of.”
Harold Froedge started the business in 1946 in the 800 block of Lafayette Avenue. Loyal began working for Harold in 1977. By 1980, Harold was ready to retire and Loyal purchased the business from him. It was then, Loyal added the business slogan, “Get Hooked on Froedge’s.”
He recalls how the business grew from two trucks and one employee to the fleet of eight trucks and 10 employees it has today.
“We’ve been doing this longer than Harold,” Loyal said of their decision to sell and retire. “It was time.”
The Bells will take with them many memories and stories — some good and some that will forever haunt them.
“When you are in this type of business, you see a lot, and some of it isn’t good,” Loyal said.
Some of those tragedies remain embedded in their hearts and minds.
Other aspects of the business have brought them great pride, including their years of membership with the Indiana Towing & Wrecker Association. During their time as members, Loyal served in various leadership roles, including president of the state organization.
The couple expressed their gratitude for the many people they have met within the industry, through ITWA and as their customers.
“I can’t express enough how much I appreciate the customers and the employees,” Loyal said.
“It’s been a journey,” Diana said. “And it’s been a good one.”
Their next journey is retirement. Before they fully “unhook” from the business, they will help the new owner during the transition. Once that is complete, they plan to spend more time with family, traveling and discovering new hobbies.
To reach Froedge’s, call 765-362-0966, email froedgesinc@gmail.com or follow them on social media.
