Salentine Closes Its Doors

Rumors began Tuesday that E.J Salentine had closed its doors, and a visit to the long time car dealership at Janesville Road and Tess Corners Drive confirmed it.

A simple sign posted on the doors, which were locked, stated:

Salentine Buick will be closed as of 2/12/2013. Sorry. Thank you.

An employee at the dealership would not comment on the closing and there has been no statement from the family that runs the business, which has been in operation for about 88 years.

A customer said a visit on Tuesday to the dealership from his home in Franksville provided him with the stunning news. 

"I spoke briefly to one of the owners who, obviously distraught, confirmed the permanent closing of the dealership," said Ronald Vandenboom.

"I was almost part of the family when I was a pre-teen, helping pump gas and wash cars when S.J. had the building on the South side of Highway 24," he recalled. "Later I helped make the move to the Imme building across the street. Later, when I was working as a bodyman, I helped make the move to the present location. It is sad to see the business close and for the family to lose this landmark. I wish them all good luck."

The business's Facebook Page as recently as last week had information on new inventory coming onto the lot. However, it appears the page has now been taken down.

We will update the story as more information becomes available.