River City Six – Christopher Hunke
Meet Christopher Hunke, owner of Krown Rust Control and Cars R Us Autobody, Inc.
Tell us a little about your business.
Cars R Us was opened in 2000 providing auto body services, mostly customer pay and fleets, as well as any insurance repairs we can get. I added the Krown brand in November of 2018. Our auto body technicians are experienced craftsmen who have the ability to do more than change car parts—they will fix all of the damage on your vehicle and restore it to its pre-accident condition. We offer a 5% discount on labor for military, both active and veteran. Our shop is located at 5020 William St.
How did you get started in the business?
I’m a second-generation in the trade.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?
Overcoming the common belief that one has to take their car to a shop on their insurance company’s list. “It’s Your Car, It’s Your Choice.”
What has been your most important achievement professionally?
Empowering others, some even to the point where they became business owners themselves.
Tell us a little about your family.
I have a grown daughter who had to help “fix up” her first car. My wife is in academics and a private teacher for violin and fiddle.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?
Marrying a person who believed in me.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
Relax while camping.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know?
I’m 6’5 and still the “little guy” in my family.
Who inspires you?
All people who do extraordinary things with minimal means and support.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Pay yourself first, in the sense of putting a bit of money away on a regular basis.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be?
Grateful.
If you had a theme song, what would it be?
“Right This Moment” by Scott Johnson.
If you could have a super power, what would it be?
To be able to show everyone how they each have value to bring to this world.
What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life?
I played upright bass for the Dirty River Ramblers.
Which talent would you most like to have?
To be able to sing.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?
I’m on the board for Gotta Be Me, which was created to promote the inclusion of adults with disabilities into our communities, creating a culture that is brimming with life, dignity, and growth for all people.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?
The Values Factor: The Secret to Creating an Inspired and Fulfilling Life by Dr. John Demartini.
What is your favorite movie?
The Peanut Butter Falcon.
What is your favorite TV show?
Long Lost Family.
What is your favorite local restaurant?
Three Happiness Express.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
(402) 558-6393; carsrus@cox.net; carsrusautobody.com.