Button celebrates 90 years
Car dealer hosts cruise-in, live music at anniversary shindig
Not many things in this world last 90 years. When a person lives to that age, the community celebrates the accomplishment for its rarity. When a business achieves that milestone, it is treated with a level of respect for its resilience.
The Chariot Auto Group celebrated just such a milestone with one of its members, Button Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram, on Sept. 9. The auto dealership, originally known as Button Motors, commemorated the anniversary with a car show, live music, a ceremonial ribbon cutting with the Greater Kokomo Chamber of Commerce, and a silent auction to benefit United Way of Howard County.
According to Chariot Auto Group CEO Rex Gingerich, Button is still around to celebrate 90 years because of the vision and values of its founders.
“John Button founded Button Motors 90 years ago in 1932, and his son, Don Button was my partner starting in 2005,” said Gingerich. “We were partners for 12 years, and it was a delightful time in my life. These two guys had a vision and commitment to excellence.
“They impacted not just Button and its employees, but the entire Kokomo community. They were amazing people.”
Gingerich also recognized his father, Ivan, who at 92 years old still works from his office at H.E. McGonigal three days a week.
“He started the foundation for what has become Chariot Auto Group and instilled in our family and our business the core values that we rely upon each and every day,” said Gingerich. “It is because of him that I get to do what I do and love, and to utilize this platform to support others. I really appreciate my dad.”
In a short speech given to the many in attendance at the anniversary event, Gingerich explained that Button’s success comes from service to the community rather selling vehicles.
“We like to say at Chariot Auto Group that we are driven to serve,” said Gingerich. “That includes our customers, our employees, and the communities we are a part of. We may be in the car business, but we are really about taking care of people. The great legacy of Button has helped pave the way for purpose-driven organizations like ours.
“Today is truly an occasion to celebrate. Ninety years in service is no small feat, and Button Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram has been committed to serving the Kokomo community for nearly a century. In turn, the community has supported us through generations of loyal customers and employees, partners and friends. Today would not be possible without each and every one of you, and for that we are truly grateful.”
Button general manager Mike Lupoi echoed Gingerich’s sentiments as he expressed gratitude for his time with the company.
“There are defining moments in your life; those dates that you remember,” said Lupoi. “When you get your driver’s license. Maybe when you had your first drink. When you get married. The birth of your children. Oct. 16, 2006, was a defining time in my life. That was when I got to join the team and come to work at Button.
“It has been a life-changer. I have met some great people. I am so grateful to be able to serve the community that I love and live in. It’s all about serving the people we work with and work for. One thing I learned from Ivan and Rex is the pillar of success is to serve. Truly, everyone who works here makes a difference. We come to work with a desire to serve our customers and community and to have fun at what we do.”
As part of the celebration Kokomo Mayor Tyler Moore was on hand to make a proclamation designating the day in honor of Button and Chariot.
“The Button-Gingerich family has been an integral part of this community and continues to be,” said Moore. “On behalf of a grateful city, we appreciate the continued investment and love for the community, to make everyone who steps onto the lot feel like family.”
To view additional photos from the Button anniversary, visit the Kokomo Lantern’s Facebook page.