Jerry’s Auto Parts Celebrates 40 Years
In 1979 Jerry and Bonnie Rosengrant moved from Boise, Idaho to Council Idaho. Bringing their three children, DeeDee, Dean, and youngest son, Eric.
Jerry worked for Bill Summers, as the manager of the parts store, while Bonnie worked as a nurse at the local hospital. In 1981, with Jerry’s help, they converted the independent parts store into the NAPA it is today.
Within five years, Jerry and Bonnie purchased the business from Bill and built the current location. Jerry’s Auto Parts were open six days a week, even though Jerry always worked seven. There was always time on Sunday for updating paper catalogs and writing orders.
When the business opened, there were no computers. Parts were bought and sold by catalogs, on handwritten receipts. It became a game for Jerry to always, no matter what, have anything anybody needed. The right answer was never “no, we don’t have that.” It would be “I’ll get it for you”, if he didn’t have it in stock
The phone was always to be answered no later than the third ring. This is where Jerry became known for the exceptional service that his customers came to expect.
Jerry, always a true “car guy” added on to the store several times. Often, there was a classic car being restored in the back room. Be it a 36 Chevy sedan, or a 54 Bel Air. Jerry was truly passionate about not only his business, but also his family... and his cars.
Eric started working for his Dad at 14 years old. Counting sold parts on the handwritten “parts cards” to write the orders. Eric worked many years with his Dad and Mom. He moved back in 1991 after college, bringing his wife Angie, to start and raise their family in Council.
When Jerry and Bonnie retired in May of 2007, Eric and Angie purchased the business, and continued to provide the family atmosphere and exceptional customer service that Jerry’s customers have become accustomed to. Eric believes it an honor to carry on with the family business.
The family aspect of this business has never changed. It is easy to see Jerry’s legacy still in the store today. His toy car collection is still displayed on the walls in the corner by the stove. There are toy trucks, cars, and even a boat above the shelving. Every time the phone is answered, it’s always with Jerry’s name. There are even a few part numbers still penned by his hand. It is not uncommon in the summer months to see Jerry’s 1983 Jeep out the side door. Angie’s favorite summer ride.
Jerry and Bonnie left an impression on Eric, Angie, to always treat every customer as if they were the most important person in the room. They took it a step farther and contributed much of their success to a very dedicated group of employees, who are treated like family. In turn, there are currently 158 years of combined service from Jerry’s employees, and even more years of automotive experience. Each treating this business as if it were their own. A work shirt with a Jerry’s Auto Parts logo has become a badge of honor, and a tribute to a legendary man.
For the last 40 years, giving back has been a cornerstone of who we are. We are deeply ingrained in the communities we serve, proudly donating our time and financial support to countless worthy causes.
We would like to thank our customers, our community, our friends and family for 40 years of support!
