Fleckinstein's Bakery in New Lenox and Mokena
Fleckenstein’s Bakery began as Joan Fleckenstein’s passion for cake decorating. In 1977, she and her husband, Bob, opened a small bakery, and the community’s immediate support quickly turned it into a full-time business. Their sons grew up in the bakery, starting with simple tasks and gradually learning everything from mixing dough to decorating. By 1985, Ray Fleckenstein had joined full time, and over the years, multiple generations have worked alongside one another. Joan and Bob instilled a strong commitment to quality, using the best ingredients and taking pride in every product, while also ensuring fair prices so customers receive real value. That balance continues to guide the bakery today. What means the most to Ray is the connection to the community. Fleckenstein’s now serves generations of families, from wedding cakes to everyday treats, becoming a meaningful part of their traditions.
Herders Bros, Inc. in Frankfort
Herder Bros. was founded in 1920 by three brothers—Fredrick, Harry, and Eugene Herder—in Chicago’s Back of the Yards neighborhood. Starting with horse-and-wagon deliveries of ice in the summer and coal in the winter, the business evolved over generations into trucking, moving, and storage. Today, it operates as a small trucking company with a specialized focus, including piano moving and assisting seniors transitioning into and out of assisted living.
While the business has changed, its core values remain rooted in providing quality, friendly service. One tradition that endures is the presence of a Herder family member on every job site: a hands-on approach that has helped sustain the company for over a century.
Family ownership has always been central to Herder Bros. Across generations, relatives have worked side by side. Today, the next generation continues to lend a hand, carrying forward a legacy built on family involvement and dedication.
Scott's U-Save Tire & Automotive in New Lenox
Scott’s U-Save has roots in a family automotive legacy dating back to 1919, when the owner’s great-grandfather launched one of Chicago’s first parts distributorships. Years later, his father chose to branch out, opening his own two-bay tire shop and gas station. That independent spirit helped grow the business into four locations with more than 50 employees. After his father’s passing in 1997, his mother led the company for over two decades—an uncommon role for a woman in the industry at the time. Since returning in 2018, the next generation has begun transitioning into ownership as she steps back.
The business is guided by a strong commitment to community impact. Beyond automotive service, the team prioritizes giving back through donations, partnerships with local organizations, and ongoing support of schools and food pantries.
At its core, Scott’s U-Save remains people-focused: supporting employees’ growth, building lasting customer trust, and maintaining a community-first mindset that continues to define its legacy.
Whitmore Ace Hardware, locations in Manhattan, Mokena, New Lenox
Whitmore Ace Hardware traces its roots to 1896 in Wilmington, Illinois, when William Whitmore I opened a hardware store with his brother-in-law. Over time, the business continually adapted to meet customers’ needs—selling everything from horse-drawn carriages and coal stoves to automobiles, farm equipment, and modern appliances. While products have changed, the commitment to providing trusted goods and dependable service has remained constant. Today, the company serves communities across the south and west suburbs of Chicago, including the Lincoln-Way area, and is led by fifth-generation family members who are preparing the next generation for leadership.
A strong culture built on shared values has guided the business across generations. With a focus on continuous improvement, teamwork, customer service, and community impact, the company prioritizes people in every aspect of its work.
Operating as a fifth-generation family business carries both pride and responsibility—honoring a legacy while continuing to grow, adapt, and serve future generations.