After an incredible 46 years in the automotive service industry — 32 of them right here at Lake Chevrolet — we’re celebrating the well-earned retirement of our longtime Service Manager, Dave Kvislen.
Dave’s journey began back in high school, when a Vo-Tech program sparked his interest in vehicle repair. What started as curiosity turned into a lifelong career built on skill, patience, and a genuine care for people.
Over the decades, Dave has seen the automotive world transform in amazing ways. “Vehicles are so much more high-tech now,” he shared. “They do so much for you — and that makes repairs more complicated.” But some things never change: “Cars still break down, and somebody’s got to fix them.”
Among the many milestones in Dave’s career, a few stand out — like moving into Lake Chevy’s new bright, spacious service shop in 2011, earning ASE Master Technician certification (which he’s proudly held for over 30 years), and even winning a memorable trip to Hawaii.
What’s made Dave truly special, though, isn’t just his technical expertise — it’s his heart for people. He’s most proud of the relationships he’s built with customers and teammates over the years. His willingness to train hard, stay curious, and keep learning has set the tone for an exceptional service team that continues to thrive today.
Dave’s impact on his team has been just as meaningful as his impact on customers. When asked to describe him, teammates didn’t hesitate: knowledgeable, intelligent, consistent, hardworking, easygoing, helpful, and irreplaceable. They spoke of his clear and concise communication, his steady leadership, and the way he could be counted on for straight answers, solid guidance, and a positive attitude — even on the tough days. And of course, more than one teammate pointed out the obvious: “Welp, he’s a Steelers fan — if that doesn’t answer your question, I’m not sure what will.”
What his coworkers say they’ll miss most paints an even clearer picture of the kind of person Dave has been to work with. They’ll miss his leadership, his endless knowledge, his drive to get things done, and the way they could always rely on him for help or advice. But above all, they’ll miss his sense of humor — including the “lame, corny jokes” several admitted they secretly loved. One teammate said it best: “Everything. He’s been a huge asset to the dealership… his knowledge and experience will be missed profusely.”
As Dave retires, his team wants him to know just how much he’s meant to them. They shared heartfelt gratitude for his guidance, patience, and belief in them — whether he was training someone new, offering advice, or simply treating everyone with integrity and respect. Many credit Dave with shaping their careers and helping them grow not just as employees, but as people. One message summed up the sentiment felt across the shop: “Thank you so much for everything over the years. You’ve helped me in more ways than I can count. Enjoy your retirement — you’ve definitely earned it. Don’t be a stranger.”
When asked what he won’t miss, Dave laughs and says, “The drive from Cando to Devils Lake every day — especially during blizzards!” But what he will miss most are the people — the loyal customers and coworkers who’ve become lifelong friends.
As for retirement plans? The first thing on his list is simple: “Sleep past 5 a.m.” After that, you’ll find Dave enjoying time at the lake, watching football, and spending time with his family. He and his wife, Nicki, have been married for 43 years and are proud parents of four daughters — Ashley (Grand Forks), Brittney and Shawna (Minneapolis), and Andrea (Dickinson) — and ten wonderful grandkids who keep life full of joy.
Dave hopes he’ll be remembered as a friend who’s always ready to help — and we can say without hesitation that he’s exceeded that goal. Even as he prepares for retirement, he’s been dedicated to guiding and mentoring Troy Eback, who will step into the Service Manager position as Dave wraps up his many years of service.
Please join us on Friday, December 12th from 2-4pm at Lake Chevrolet GMC for an Open House to celebrate Dave.
From all of us at Lake Chevrolet: thank you, Dave, for your years of dedication, leadership, and kindness. You’ve made an incredible impact, and we wish you all the best in your next chapter!
