Elmer's Body Shop, an iconic fixture in downtown Elkhart, IN, is celebrating a remarkable milestone in 2025 -- 100 years of exceptional auto body craftsmanship. Founded in 1925, this family-operated business has evolved through four generations, consistently upholding its dedication to quality and customer satisfaction.
From its inception as a modest garage, Elmer’s Body Shop has grown into a renowned local institution, known for its meticulous attention to detail and commitment to the community. Throughout economic changes and technological advancements, the shop has adapted and thrived, all while maintaining its core values instilled by founder Elmer Steffen.
“At Elmer’s, we don’t just fix cars -- we bring them back to life, one detail at a time,” said current owner Wes Steffen. “This centennial is not only a reflection of our team’s passion but also the loyalty of our customers and the strong bonds within the Elkhart community.”
The Steffen family's journey began with Elmer Steffen, who transitioned from working at Crow Elkhart Manufacturing Plant to opening his own auto body shop during the challenging times of the Great Depression. The shop saw significant expansions under his watch in 1935 and 1948, a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to excellence.
Subsequent generations each contributed to the shop’s legacy. In 1955, Elmer’s son Ralph introduced brake and alignment services. The ’70s through the ’90s saw Tim Steffen at the helm, eventually moving the business to its present location on East Lexington Avenue in 1984. Wes Steffen joined in 2000 and took over leadership in 2012, continuing to innovate and maintain the high standards that have made Elmer’s a favorite across generations.
“As Elmer’s Body Shop reflects on 100 years of service, our team is immensely grateful for the community's support over the decades,” said Wes Steffen. “From our early days of handshake agreements to today’s state-of-the-art repairs, we have proudly remained a trusted partner for many Elkhart families. As we celebrate this milestone, we look forward to upholding our tradition of quality and care for many more generations.”
To learn more about Elmer’s Body Shop or its century-long history of service, visit elmersbodyshop.com.
