A family tradition at Village Farm & Home in Waukon now extends itself to a third generation of ownership
Ownership transition at Village Farm & Home ... The start of the new year has seen a change in ownership at Village Farm & Home in Waukon. The four Sweeney brothers pictured left to right in the photo above, Jan, Joe, Jerry and Jake, had been the sole business owners since 1994. As of January 1, 2020, Joe has now been joined in that ownership by his two sons, Matt and Steven, who have purchased the ownership interest of their uncles and are pictured at left and right, respectively, in the photo below. Submitted photos.
In 1962, Ray and Monica Sweeney started the Village Farm & Home in Waukon along with their 11 children. Throughout the years, some of the children started their own stores or took other career paths.
Sons Jan (Lorraine), Joe (Judy), Jerry and Jake (Beth) became partners with Ray at the store. When Ray passed away in September of 1994, those four sons became sole owners of the Waukon store.
As of January 1, 2020, a third generation will now be carrying on the family business, as Joe’s two sons, Matt and Steven, bought the partnership interests of their three uncles to join their father in the ownership of the business. Both Matt and Steven have been involved with the store since they were old enough to be helpful. Both live north of Waukon, Matt with his girlfriend, Jess, and their four dogs, and Steven with his wife, Jessie, and their three sons, Raymond (10), Elliott (8) and Emmett (5).
Some titles and roles in the business have changed in the ownership transition, but all involved will strive to continue the same friendly and courteous service. Barb and Brad, with their many years at the store, along with Beth, Phil, Jeffrey, Dylan and Jared, will continue to help in the new venture.
