Nanninga studied to be a home builder before taking a job as a shop helper at a garage in Iron Mountain. He learned how to be a mechanic, which he did at that garage for a number of years. Eventually, he decided to open his own garage and ended up building one.

“There was not much out there at the time and I decided to give this a try and it has worked out great for the last 22 years,” Nanninga said. “It put my kids through college, so that is the biggest thing. I could not have done it without my family. I am thankful for them.”

Nanninga mostly works by himself in the two-stall garage, but he does have a part-time employee. Nanninga believes that the personal touch is what sets Northwoods Auto and Truck Repair apart from the competition.

“I give a fair price and I am honest,” he said. “I work by myself so I do not have a lot of overhead like the competition that has up to five people employed, so they have to charge a little more.”

IN ADDITION TO being a full-service garage, Northwoods Auto & Truck Repair in Aurora, Wis., offers 24-hour towing. (Jim Paul/Daily News photo)

Nanninga is an ASE certified mechanic. Other than engine and transmission rebuilds, Northwoods Auto & Truck Repair is a full-service garage offering everything from oil changes, batteries, alternators, ball joints and tie rods. Nanninga said that his specialties are brakes and front ends.

Despite car manufacturers making it difficult for independent mechanics to work on vehicles, Nanninga said he does his best to stay up on technology and often takes classes to keep up.

Northwoods Auto & Truck Repair sells a wide variety of tires including Cooper, General and Goodyear. With available rebates, Nanninga is able to offer the best possible prices. Northwoods Auto & Truck Repair also sells used tires.

Northwoods Auto & Truck Repair offers 24-hour towing in Michigan and Wisconsin.

Although he keeps busy working by himself, Nanninga said that he is always able to help someone needing work to fit into the schedule.

Northwoods Auto & Truck Repair is at 1270 County Road B in Niagara, Wis. Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call 715-589-2886 for 24-hour towing.