Chad and Jason Rauk grabbed the reins of Rauk's Convenience Store in September 2000, making them the fourth generation of Rauks in the business.
Chad and Jason purchased the business from their uncle, Ron Rauk, who built the current building on the edge of Beaver Creek in 1995.
Rauk's long history began in 1917, when Ron's grandfather, A.J. Rauk, opened general stores in Beaver Creek, Hardwick, Jackson, Woodstock, and Colman, S.D.
Although the stores were lost during the Depression, A.J. Rauk was able to purchase the Beaver Creek store back, and he continued to run the business until he died in 1964.
After A.J.'s death, Ron's father, Edward, immediately stepped in. Edward died in 1969, leaving Ron's mother, Betty, with a business to run and three children still in high school. Ron returned home to help his mother with the store.
Rauk's Convenience Store is still a family affair with an all-Rauk employee line-up of Jason and Chad, Ron and his wife, Marlys, and Jason and ChadÕs mother, Mary.
Rauk's offers all types of convenience items. At noon they serve hot dogs, brats and a featured hot sandwich. During winter months, soups and hot dishes are also served. During the summer, subs and carry-out pizza are added to the menu.
For added convenience, Rauk's also offers a propane exchange and Buhl's Dry Cleaning Service.
The best part of the business is meeting people, according to Chad Rauk. He has been associated with Rauk's, first downtown, then in the current location, since high school and said it is "kind of second nature."
"The majority of the people coming through the door you know," he said. "We've grown up in this town, and we know the majority of the people we are doing business with. It is a good feeling that we can provide a service for the community."
The busiest period for Rauk's is April through August. Ballgames and traffic off the interstate increase summer business, according to Chad Rauk.
In the future, Chad and Jason hope to update their pumps so gas can be purchased 24 hours a day by credit card. A car wash is another project in the planning stage.
Rauk's Convenience Store is open Monday through Friday 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday 7 to 9 p.m.; and Sunday 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Chad and his wife, Tami, and Jason all live in Beaver Creek. Jason is also head custodian at Hills-Beaver Creek Elementary School.