A friend to customers and co-workers retires after 20 years with Krapohl
Thirty-six years working in the automotive industry are coming to an end this week for Kim Laurenz. The start of his career began with Ford Motor Co., and for the last 20 years he’s been a Service Advisor at Krapohl — a Ford Master Certified Service Advisor, to be exact.
Kim writes repair orders, figuring out estimates for customers and finalizing report orders.
Kim Laurenz, right, worked with customers at the service desk at Krapohl Ford & Lincoln for 20 years. He will retire Thursday, April 15.
In 2001, Kim saw a Krapohl Ford & Lincoln note in a newspaper that the dealership was hiring, so he sent in his resume. He’s been a service advisor ever since.
“He’s very knowledgeable and through,” Service Advisor Katelyn Wontorcik said. “He has a lot of experience because he’s done it for so long.”
During Kim’s automotive journey, he’s encountered personal challenges with life and his health. He said the past two decades at Krapohl have been rewarding and enjoyable. His favorite part about the job is the family-like atmosphere.
“You’re treated like family,” Kim said. “You can talk to anyone, and everyone gets along with each other.”
Respect and kindness from co-workers doesn’t only exist during hours of operation. Many Krapohl employees have great relationships with co-workers and enjoy each other’s company outside of the office. Once retired, he’s going to miss the people.
“As far as what I’ll miss about him is sharing a lot of stories back and forth,” Service Manager Jeff Slocum said. “It has always been a pleasure.”
In his free time, Kim enjoys watching NASCAR and Michigan State University sports, and being with his family. He’s also an elder at his church, Emmanuel Lutheran. Although he’s going to miss working at Krapohl, retirement is going to give him more time to do the things he loves.
“Thank you all for the help and for being family members,” he said. “I wish you all well and health in years to come.”
Connect with us
