By: McKenzie Taylor
Chuck Fenger is a family man, fire chief, and new business owner who has just started an exciting new chapter with the purchase of Goblirsch Motors in Wabasso, now rebranded as Fenger Auto. Growing up in Springfield and spending countless hours on his grandparents’ farm in Wanda, Chuck’s upbringing was rooted in hard work, family, and a tight-knit community. His path, filled with determination and resilience, has shaped his vision for this new venture in Wabasso.
Chuck’s journey began in Springfield, where he attended Springfield High School and developed a passion for mechanics through classes at CRTC. Family has always been at the center of his life, especially his wife Michelle, to which he has been married for 23 years, and their three kids, Allison, Sam, and Carly. Each of his kids is carving their own path: Allison works as a corrections officer with the Redwood County Sheriff’s Office, Sam is launching a landscaping business, and Carly, a high school junior, is passionate about sports.
As the fire chief in Wanda, Chuck’s dedication to community service is evident, and it’s a commitment he extends to his personal and professional life. He attributes much of his success to the values instilled by his father, grandfather, and FFA advisor. They all instilled the same lesson to him, “If you want something, you need to work for it—no one is going to give it to you,” he shared, reflecting on one of the most impactful lessons he learned.
Chuck’s professional journey is anything but conventional. Starting with a full-time job in a welding shop during high school, he later ventured into construction and eventually launched his own company, managing five crews. This early experience in managing people and a business was pivotal in shaping his entrepreneurial spirit. In 2002, he joined the Sibley County Sheriff’s Office as a deputy sheriff, bringing him into public service—a role he continues today.
His career took a different turn after a life-altering car accident in 2010, which required multiple surgeries and left him temporarily unable to work. However, his resilience was unwavering, and he soon returned to work in various roles, including as a part-time police officer in Lamberton and more recently, a shop teacher at Wabasso High School.
Before taking on Fenger Auto, Chuck and his family poured their hearts into another business venture: Beaver Dam Resort. Initially, Chuck and his wife Michelle partnered with his sister Jen and her husband Brian to run the resort, sharing ownership for four years before buying them out. For another four years, Chuck, Michelle, and their kids managed the property, transforming it into a lively destination. They expanded it to 90 campsites, in addition to the already standing three cozy cabins, and even opened a bar and restaurant, creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests. “We had a great time running the resort,” Chuck shared, reflecting on the memories they made together and the joy of building something their whole family could be proud of.
Chuck had long aspired to own his own business, a dream he is now realizing alongside his son, Sam. When the opportunity arose to purchase Goblirsch Motors, Chuck saw it as a chance to not only establish a family business but also to contribute to his community. “Everyone was so welcoming when we moved back, and I felt like I belonged,” he explained, highlighting the importance of community in his vision for Fenger Auto.
Chuck’s plans for the business are to revitalize the building, potentially adding a hardware section, a small lumber supply, and even a coffee shop. This vision reflects his commitment to making Fenger Auto a welcoming, community-based business that meets various local needs.
For Chuck, community is the backbone of any successful small business. “The community is everything,” he emphasized. “If you don’t have the support of the community, you won’t have a business long.” Chuck’s goal is to make Fenger Auto a space where customers feel valued and supported, where quality service and fair treatment are guaranteed.
Despite his ambition, Chuck remains humble, expressing admiration for other local businesses that share his commitment to the community. “They are all great businesses, and we will treat everyone fair, making our service and products affordable,” he shared.
Looking back on his life, Chuck believes the most rewarding part of his journey has been building a business from the ground up and watching it flourish. “If you want to make it in life, you need to take chances,” he advised. This belief has carried him through many challenges, and it’s clear he’s ready to take on the future with Fenger Auto.
As Chuck begins this next chapter, his story is a testament to resilience, community, and the power of family. Whether he’s teaching young students, running a business with his son, or serving the community through public service, Chuck Fenger remains dedicated to giving back to the community that has always been there for him. With Fenger Auto, he hopes to continue this legacy, building a business that serves not only as a shop but as a pillar in the community he loves.