Greg Bruner, owner of Bruner Motors, was recently honored by the Texas Historical Commission (THC) at the State Capitol as a recipient of the Texas Treasure Business Award. The award is an initiative of the Community Heritage Division of the THC and honors businesses that have been in operation within Texas for over 50 years. “The Texas Treasure Business Award pays tribute to the state’s well-established businesses and their exceptional contributions to communities across Texas,” said THC Executive Director Mark Wolfe.
The award presentation coincided with the Cowboy Capital of the World’s Legislative Day on March 1. In addition to the members of the THC, those present for the award were State Representative Shelby Slawson, Senator Drew Springer, and leadership from the Texas Automobile Dealers Association (TADA) as well as officials from Erath County, City of Stephenville, and Tarleton State University. The Bruner organization’s mantra “Buy Better Buy Bruner” reflects their family’s roots of being upfront and honest in their business practices, treating customers like family, and taking care of the community. “We’re from here, we live here, and we’re committed long-term to this community,” Greg Bruner added. “Nothing makes us prouder than seeing this community thrive and grow.”
Bruner Motors founder, Dwain Bruner, was approached by General Motors to acquire the Chevrolet dealership in Stephenville, Texas in 1969. Dwain and his wife, Carolyn, visited Stephenville and knew immediately that the town would be a great place to raise their family and grow the business. This year, Bruner Motors celebrates 54 years as a Chevrolet dealer; 40 years as a Chrysler, Dodge, Ram, and Jeep dealer; 33 years as a GMC dealer; and 16 years as a Toyota dealer. As one of the area’s largest dealerships, the Bruner family is active in the Stephenville community, supporting many organizations and events each year. “I am always so proud of the work of our Texas dealers and the impact they have in the local communities,” said Darren Whitehurst, TADA President. “I am so proud of the work of Greg and Lynda Bruner, and all that Stephenville means to their family.”
On March 7, the Bruners received a proclamation from the City of Stephenville in honor of the Bruner’s Texas Treasure Award.
Pictured with the Bruner family are Mayor Doug Svien; Margaret Hoogstra and Tammie Virden of the Texas Forts Trail; and Terry Colley, Main Street board member and former Texas Historical Commission Deputy Executive Director and Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer.
