History

The Bona family history of service to the community dates back to 1956. Its founders, Paul and Helen Bona, opened their first service station at 573 – 40th Avenue NE, Columbia Heights, across from City Hall. Paul Bona began by managing the service station on 40th Avenue in 1952. Paul, though eager to be self employed, was also hesitant as the times were tough and he had four, and soon-to-be five, children to provide for. However, Helen had a hidden talent for entrepreneurship and a hidden savings of $1,000 and bought the first load of gasoline to get the ball rolling.

The following article appeared in the NAPA quarterly newsletter mailed throughout the automotive industry:

Photo 1971
You, our customers, have made this branch expansion possible. The fellow above is one of our best customers. We’re talking about Mr. Paul Bona, Sr., of Paul’s Gulf. Paul’s station is located at 573 – 40th Ave in Columbia Heights, MN. Paul, we appreciate your business and we look forward to serving you and all the rest of our fine customers for many years to come.
Photo 1981
Paul’s Pro Service is a father and son operation in business at this location since 1956. They are tune-up and electrical specialists. Left to right, back row, are Scott Pomeroy and Dick Rein. Front row are Dan Eggerth, Owner Paul Bona, son Brian Bona and Bill Hanneman. Bill does alignments on one of the most advanced units on the market. Paul uses NAPA Filters, Echlin, Victor, United and several other NAPA lines to keep his customers happy. Thanks, Paul and crew, for depending on GPC/NAPA for your parts and service needs. We enjoy serving you!

Paul’s management style was people come first. Although this era was highly competitive, having service stations on nearly every corner, Paul continued to thrive. In due time, Paul retired and sold the business to his son, Brian, who had worked with him since he was 5 years old in varying capacities. Brian, who offered his own unique contribution, continued the business’ growth and prosperity.

1998 saw the Bona’s expanding north into Fridley with the purchase of Bill Johnson’s Amoco Station at 5311 University Avenue NE. By this time, the Bona’s had now increased in numbers to include Brian’s five sons, John, David, Matthew, Stephen and Brian, Jr., which inspired the new name of Bona Bros. Automotive Service. The Amoco was purchased with the intention of converting the repair bays into a first-class convenience store to better serve the neighborhood.

Early on, Paul’s Pro Service established a reputation for excellence in diagnosing troublesome driveability and electrical problems. It is a reputation that Bona Bros. maintains today. However, more than that, we are proud of the relationship we have with customers. The company motto, “Personal Attention – Commitment to Serve” reflects our business philosophy. Because we know most of our customers on a first-name basis, we are able to tailor our service to fit their individual needs. The Bona’s are now servicing third generations of customers.

The year 2000 began with the anticipation of fulfilling 30 years worth of dreaming to build a state-of-the-art auto facility while incorporating the traditional appearance of a building that reflects pride in detailed craftsmanship. Bona Bros. Automotive Service was built with the desire of creating an atmosphere both pleasing to customers and employees. Two quick-service lanes were specifically designed to provide efficient services while customers wait for such items as oil changes, factory scheduled maintenance, and emergency repairs. The technicians work area is bright and spacious, complete with heated shop floors, positive ventilation and many windows to provide a natural, sun-filled work environment. A truck hoist was also installed to accommodate commercial and recreational vehicles. All diagnostic and test equipment are the most technologically advanced available and extensive computer data bases allow access to vehicle factory service information, bulletins, recalls, and scheduled maintenance. All this is available in a quiet library room that has been created for technicians to conduct their research.

2004 began a second expansion of the repair shop by adding 5 additional bays to accommodate an ever-growing customer base. Bona Bros. now has 12 service bays to meet the needs of our customers.

The Bona’s vision of providing a welcoming and user-friendly workplace has encouraged highly trained technicians to join us. Our technicians are advanced-level certified, with most being Dunwoody graduates. They maintain their technical knowledge by frequently attending advanced training classes. In addition to technical skills, people chemistry has also been an important consideration when hiring staff for our facilities. By placing particular emphasis on discipline, politeness and a willingness to serve, we can confidently provide our customers with exceptional service.

Bona Bros. Automotive Services offers its customers a unique and uncommon waiting area designed to leave a distinctive impression. The area is warm, inviting and reminiscent of an English library.

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