History

 

 

 

DRiven by quality and trust

Every day, we still deliver quality, precision, and hands-on support to earn the confidence and long-term loyalty of truck body customers across the United States.

a legacy built to last

Explore our history from a small milk wagon builder to Wisconsin’s leading commercial truck body manufacturer.

Marion starts as a blacksmith shop owned by the Milbauer family, building cattle racks and milk wagons for farmers
1905
2Marion starts as a blacksmith shop owned by the Milbauer family, building cattle racks and milk wagons for farmers
1964
3Marion starts as a blacksmith shop owned by the Milbauer family, building cattle racks and milk wagons for farmers
1971
4Marion starts as a blacksmith shop owned by the Milbauer family, building cattle racks and milk wagons for farmers
1980
5Marion starts as a blacksmith shop owned by the Milbauer family, building cattle racks and milk wagons for farmers
1981
7Marion starts as a blacksmith shop owned by the Milbauer family, building cattle racks and milk wagons for farmers
1986
8Marion starts as a blacksmith shop owned by the Milbauer family, building cattle racks and milk wagons for farmers
1996
9Marion starts as a blacksmith shop owned by the Milbauer family, building cattle racks and milk wagons for farmers
1999
10Marion starts as a blacksmith shop owned by the Milbauer family, building cattle racks and milk wagons for farmers
2003
11Marion starts as a blacksmith shop owned by the Milbauer family, building cattle racks and milk wagons for farmers
2004
12Marion starts as a blacksmith shop owned by the Milbauer family, building cattle racks and milk wagons for farmers
2016
13Marion starts as a blacksmith shop owned by the Milbauer family, building cattle racks and milk wagons for farmers
2022
14Marion starts as a blacksmith shop owned by the Milbauer family, building cattle racks and milk wagons for farmers
2023
15Marion starts as a blacksmith shop owned by the Milbauer family, building cattle racks and milk wagons for farmers
2025

Thank You, Bud and Jim

When Vinson Raleigh “Bud” Simpson, Jr. purchased Marion Body Works in 1980, he added more than business expertise to the company—he brought a vision rooted in integrity, curiosity, and service. A USAF officer, entrepreneur, world traveler, and lifelong learner, Bud led with purpose, strengthening our company and shaping a culture of excellence that still guides us.

 

His son, James “Jim” Simpson, continued this legacy, co-leading the company with dedication and innovation. Jim’s time with us was cut short when he passed unexpectedly in 2012, but his passion for quality and community left an indelible mark on Marion Body Works

 

Their legacy lives on in every truck we build and every relationship we forge. We miss you, Bud and Jim.