More than 50 years ago, Charles “Fuzzy” Fosnaugh started delivering small packages, groceries,
and alcohol in an Econoline truck. Doug Fosnaugh started with the company as he was growing up and purchased a building on Oak Street.
As the company motto states, the Fosnaugh family is “born to move.” Just like their dad, Doug’s sons Mike and Doug Jr. started working with their father from a young age.
“I remember being at the Palace Theatre with my grandpa. I would be on the dolly, and he would take me down the stairs when I was three years old,” recalled Mike. “From the time I was a little kid through high school I remember helping my dad unload boxes after school. One of my favorite memories of those times is working late with my dad and Mom bringing us a bag of Dubbles burgers.”
In 2010, after returning from a deployment Mike decided to partner with his dad instead of pursuing other potential career opportunities.
“We had to pay for the expenses of the trucks, insurance, and employees. Dad and I didn’t take paychecks for the first few years,” said current President and Owner, Mike. “It’s hard. It’s not something you can wake up and just start. It was literally blood, sweat, and tears.”
Fosnaugh & Sons 3rd Generation Moving & Storage (3rd Generation) was officially born. Since 2010, they have grown their fleet from that single Econoline truck to three box trucks, two enclosed trailers, two pickup trucks, and car trailers. They now have a staff of 11, and in the summer up to 15 people. Operations Manager Adam Smith has been with the company since Mike became the owner.
3rd Generation currently serves individuals, families, and businesses across the state. They most recently received their required licenses and insurance to complete out-of-state moves and started doing business across the country.
“Mike and his dad have renamed the business but kept those same family-owned business values,” said Mike’s wife, Jennifer Fosnaugh.
“I had to transition to learn how to run the business from my dad, and I’m still learning,” Mike said.
As far as his children being the next generation of the family business, Mike wants Madison, Isaac, and Ethan to work for the company to learn skills and work ethic.
“It’s a hard job. Physically, but also mentally if you’re running a crew or driving a truck,” said Mike.
In addition to the company, the Fosnaugh family is active in the community. Mike often donates his time and services to Marion City Schools athletic department. 3rd Generation stays dedicated to downtown Marion by being a sponsor for the Popcorn Festival and participating in other downtown events. Mike has also had the honor of being a judge for the Forge small business competition.
“We are happy to provide big-city service, with a small-town personal touch. I thoroughly enjoy getting to know customers and have developed ongoing professional relationships with so many clients,” Mike said.
People are welcome to stop in for boxes and additional packing supplies. They also offer storage space.
“Putting your family name on something can have both pros and cons. For Mike, it has never been a question. He is proud of the legacy that his grandfather and father started. He’s confident that the care and love he puts into his work today will continue to make our family name something to be proud of,” said Jennifer. “Our staff goes above and beyond to assist in carrying that legacy on. We couldn’t be where we are today without all the love and care they also put into it.”
Mike is hopeful for the future of Marion.
“It’s growing. People are putting money into it and people are showing interest in being here. It always has been, but now it’s more noticeable. It’s cool to see things starting to bounce back,” said Mike.
