As the oldest Sunoco station in the state of Michigan, Chuck’s Sunoco has certainly become a landmark in the Gingellville community.
Earlier this year, the store changed ownership, as Chuck Antaya sold the station to his son Brad and Brad’s wife Amy.
While Chuck will be spending time in Florida, Amy and Brad will be hard at work to maintain the neighborhood feeling that has accompanied the station since its founding in 1926.
Back then it was the Gingell Gas Station, but many Gingellville residents and even Amy and Brad have known it only as Chuck’s Sunoco.
“We really are like a family here,” says Amy, who notes that the station has been family owned for over 35 years.
While maintaining the tradition, Amy and Brad have also started making strides to improve the station.
ASE Certified Technician Russ Holst was hired to assist Brad in the repair shop connected to the station. Brad’s Baldwin Car Care, was started when Brad graduated from auto/diesel college 12 years ago, and is now combined with Chuck’s Sunoco.
Meanwhile, several new products have been added in the convenience store and Amy has also lowered cigarette and gas prices.
The store also has an ATM and sells lottery tickets. Amy also notes that customers can get a free small coffee with any gas purchase, no matter the amount.
In 1989, when Chuck added to the existing property (now Town Car Wash), he donated the Gingell House to Christ the Redeemer Church for use as a parsonage.
That community first notion did not leave with the old owner.
“We grew up in this community and we want to see our area succeed,” Amy says.
“We pump gas for all disabled and elderly people,” Amy says as one example of community service. “They just need to call ahead of time and we’ll be out there ready for them.”
“Service has gone out of this industry and we want to bring it back to the community we care about,” adds Amy.
The station opens every morning at 5 a.m. and Brad opens the repair shop at 8 a.m.
Among the many things the repair shop can handle are brake jobs, tire repairs, tune ups and oil changes.
“We’re here to fix the problem at hand and tell you just what you need,” Brad says. “We’ve built our reputation on honesty and integrity.”
They’ll even provide advice and referrals for free.
“I’ll refer body work to Mike and Gingellville Auto Body, and he sends his mechanical problems to me,” Brad says, giving yet another example of the community first environment at Chuck’s.
Brad says he has a soft spot for working on classic cars, but “can handle even the most complicated newer engines too.”
Amy and Brad are also proud to note that they’ve had some of the same customers for over 30 years, but what else would you expect at Chuck’s Sunoco?
Visit Chuck’s Sunoco at 4016 S. Baldwin Road or give them a call at (248) 391-1851.