Muskego Auto Dealer Celebrates 88 Years

is still here and going strong after 88 years. As one of Muskego’s oldest businesses, the family concern has occupied a location – not quite the same location – on the north side of Janesville Road all those years.   

The 2012 Buicks formed a column outdoors leading guests into the showroom, where tables and chairs and a buffet greeted guests, with two chocolate fountains taking center stage.

The company was founded by S J Salentine in 1923, about two blocks west of the present location on the northeast corner of Janesville and Tess Corners roads. Later E J, Edward Joseph, took over.

His oldest child, Sue Salentine Sorensen, said, “He’s been gone about three years. We miss him every day.” She is the manager but states that sister Sandy, the dealer principal, “is the boss.”

Mary Salentine Reik is Parts and brother Scott, Service.   The only sibling not in the business is Debbie, who is a nurse.

The next generation is coming along, too. Sue’s daughter Carey works in finance. “The other kids are too young yet,” Scott said.

The Salentine name is familiar throughout the community. Anyone voting at one of Muskego’s fire stations has seen photos of firefighters and chiefs along the walls.  S J was the first chief of the Tess Corners Volunteer Fire Department, serving from 1953 through 1997. Scott, a department captain,  has served since 1982. 

“It’s in our blood,” he said.  “We grew up with it. Most of us have served, including Mary and Debbie.” He’s pleased with the growing number of women in the department.

In politics, too, the name is familiar. Cousin Wayne is a former mayor; Nancy served as alderman, and the Muskego high school gymnasium is dedicated to the late Dave Salentine, who was a teacher at MHS.

General Motors’  problems that led to the car builder’s pulling out from many of its dealers hurt Salentine’s, too. “Then we sold used cars,” Sandy said. “Now you see fewer cars on the lot, because fewer are being made.” So the firm has added departments: a body shop, detailing and portering. They’ve done extensive renovations – about $3 million worth.

“We’re still here!” Sandy said proudly, welcoming some 500 party-goers. 

And they’re staying!