What truly makes a business successful? Is it the employees? Maybe it’s the product the business sells. Or could it be pure luck? While all these factors may play a role, without proper management, care, devotion, and years of hard work, no business will thrive—no matter the product or fortune.
With that in mind, you’ve likely heard of Oliver Ford Lincoln in Plymouth, Indiana—one of the most respected names in the Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, and Ohio car community. But their story isn’t one of luck—it’s one of determination, vision, and family.
Let’s go back to 1955, when televisions were still black and white. John Oliver Sr. was working at Allen County Motors in Fort Wayne, Indiana—one of the largest Ford dealerships in the nation—under owner Richard “Dick” Bowlin. He dreamed of opening his own dealership, but after being denied a bank loan, he approached Bowlin directly with a bold proposal: if Bowlin loaned him the money, Oliver Sr. would pay it back within three years, or the dealership would become Bowlin’s. He kept his word, repaying the loan in full—and Oliver Ford Lincoln was born.
From there, Oliver Sr. built not only a business but a legacy. Joined by his son, John “Jack” Oliver, the dealership grew into one of Michiana’s most recognized and trusted automotive names. Jack—known affectionately in the community as “Happy Jack”—was a people person, a leader, and a passionate Mustang enthusiast. He led the dealership until his unexpected passing from COVID-19 in 2020.
Today, the third generation—John Oliver III, Jennifer Oliver Houin, and Jessica Oliver and their families—continues the tradition. They remember fondly the days when three generations worked side-by-side in the showroom, with their grandfather greeting customers, reading the paper, and chatting with staff.
“We are in the people business; we just happen to sell cars while doing it,” says Jennifer Oliver Houin. “Being together is what made it all so special.”
The Oliver family believes the key to their success for over 70 years has been providing a stable, safe, and supportive environment for their 50 employees—and the 50 families those employees represent.
“You determine your attitude every day you wake up,” says John Oliver III. “Your surroundings don’t make you—you make your surroundings.”
70th Anniversary Community Celebration
In honor of 70 years of service—and Jack’s lifelong love of Mustangs—Oliver Ford Lincoln will host a free community celebration at their Plymouth dealership on Saturday, September 6, 2025.
2–4 PM – “Happy Jack” Mustang Car Show
- Mustangs from the 1960s to today
- Dash plaques for the first 100 participants
- Stories shared by customers and friends who knew Jack and his passion for Mustangs
4–7 PM – Main Celebration
- Live Music by Mr. Funny Man – Bring your lawn chairs
- Fire Dancers to light up the night
- Food Trucks & BBQ from Hogs Gone Wild for the first 200 guests. Other food and beverages will be available for purchase
- Free Non-Alcoholic Drinks, provided by Plymouth Coca-Cola
- Cornhole Tournament
- Giveaways & Prizes
- Bounce House & Family Activities
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