After nearly 76 years of service, Gene Reeg Motor Sales, Inc. — a longstanding business located at 201 S. Main Street in downtown Columbia City — has announced it will be closing its doors. This news marks the end of an era for one of the community’s most enduring automotive businesses, and we want to take a moment to reflect on the legacy left behind and wish the Reeg family nothing but the best moving forward.
A Business Rooted in Community
Gene Reeg Motor Sales was founded in 1949, when Gene and Georgia Reeg took over the historic building at 201 South Main Street to operate their automobile sales and service business. From the very beginning this business was about more than just selling vehicles; it was about serving neighbors, building relationships and being part of the fabric of Columbia City. Gene handled sales while Georgia worked behind the scenes in accounting, creating an operation that would serve generations of customers.
Over the years, the business adapted and evolved with the times. Originally selling Pontiac and GMC vehicles as well as Frigidaire appliances, it became a stand-alone dealership in 2010 following changes within General Motors. Even as the industry shifted, Gene Reeg Motor Sales remained a familiar and friendly presence on the square.
Historic Home on Main Street
The building that housed Gene Reeg Motor Sales itself has a rich history. Built in the late 1800s and once home to local attractions like a roller skating rink and opera house, the structure became part of Columbia City’s downtown identity long before the Reeg family arrived. In 1949, when Gene Reeg Motor Sales moved into the space, it continued the tradition of Main Street business activity and helped carry it forward for decades.
A Legacy of Service
Even after Gene’s untimely death in 1969, Georgia Reeg continued to run the business, becoming one of the first female General Motors franchise owners in the nation. Their children later joined in, helping keep the family business thriving well into the 21st century. Through ups and downs, changes in the auto industry, and shifts in consumer habits, the Reeg family remained committed to their customers and their community.
In December 2025, the Reeg family announced the difficult decision to close Gene Reeg Motor Sales, Inc., with the final day of service scheduled for January 5, 2026. The announcement shared heartfelt thanks to the community for its support over nearly eight decades, and acknowledged the many challenges that have come with operating a small, family-run business in a changing marketplace.
While the doors may be closing, the impact of Gene Reeg Motor Sales will be remembered by countless residents who bought their first car, trusted the Reeg family with their vehicle repairs, or simply stopped by to say hello over the years.
Wishing the Best for the Reeg Family
We extend our deepest gratitude to the Reeg family — Gene, Georgia, Jana, Melvin, and all of the team members who helped make this business a downtown landmark. Thank you for your dedication, your service, and your contributions to Columbia City. You have left a lasting mark on Main Street and in the hearts of your neighbors.
As the community reflects on nearly eight decades of history, we honor this closing not as an end, but as a celebration of all that Gene Reeg Motor Sales has meant to Columbia City. From everyone who’s visited the showroom to those who enjoyed seeing you out and about in the community, your legacy lives on.
