Tonkin buys TD dealership

“Bob Stone’s Freeway Autocenter is built on longstanding community-minded values,” commented Ed Tonkin, co-president of the Portland-based company. “As both dealers and community members, we personally look forward to continuing this dealership’s active involvement within this outstanding region.”

Stone’s has been providing a selection of Subaru, Chevrolet, GMC and Buick vehicles to customers from The Dalles, as well as the surrounding Columbia Gorge area since 2000. The business was honored in 2007 for being the “Best Place in America” to buy a Subaru.

Additionally, in 2012, Stone was the first dealership in Oregon to earn Subaru Stellar Care Award status, which was given to the dealership again in 2013 and 2014.

“I have known the Tonkin family for 15 years,” said Stone. “I truly believe the Tonkins are a wonderful family, company and organization, and it’s absolutely my pleasure to turn over the ownership of this dealership to the Tonkins.”

Ron Tonkin, founder of the family dealership, claims he was born with gas in his veins. Because of that passion, the company has been providing Portland families with cars and trucks for more than 50 years.

Ron started the car business in 1960 with one Chevy store and the Tonkin family now owns 18 auto dealerships and one exotic Italian motorcycle store. Brands sold include Acura, Audi, Chevrolet, Dodge, Ferrari, FIAT, Honda Hyundai, Infiniti, KIA, Lotus, Maserati, Mazda, Nissan, Scion, Subaru and Toyota, along with Aprilia, Ducati, and MV Agusta.

Today, the Tonkin Family of Dealerships is Oregon’s 17th largest private employer and was voted one of the “Best 100 companies in Oregon to Work For.”

Three generations of family members are involved in the daily operation and management of the company.

For more information on Tonkin and its charitable contributions please visit: www.tonkin.com.