WHEN YOU’RE THE fourth-generation owners of the oldest business in town, you’ve got some big shoes to fill. My brother, Jacob, and I are running (and expanding) the Okeechobee family-owned business, Domer’s, Inc.
The company was founded in the 1920s by Victor Domer, who was a jack of all trades, if ever there was one. Skilled as an engine repairman, gunsmith and locksmith, Victor opened Domer’s, Inc., in a shop he built alongside our family’s home. In 1957, Russell Domer bought Domer’s, Inc., from his father, Victor, adding his own personal skill as a maker of custom livestock brands. His brands were even featured in a 1974 Florida Cattleman’s Association Magazine.
In 1978, Domer’s was sold to Russell’s son, Ray (our father). He continued the Domer’s tradition of quality and community involvement, serving on the Board of Okeechobee County Commissioners for 10 years. After our Dad’s untimely passing in August of 2014, my brother and I have stepped up to the plate to lead our father’s legacy.
The business offers three components that serve the needs of commercial, residential, industrial, and agriculture sectors: a machine shop, a retail store, and a service division. The company offers products and services that go all the way back to Victor, Russell and our Dad, like pumps, mowers, livestock brands, and Domer Choppers; plus, newer lines, such as water treatment services. As Domer’s, Inc., continues to serve Florida’s large agriculture and industrial sectors, we are planning to expand Domer’s, Inc., in the future and fill the Domer family shoes.
This column is sponsored by Domer’s, Inc.
CREDIT
column by JUSTIN RAY DOMER
BIO: Brothers Jacob and Justin Domer are the fourth generation to step into the shoes of Great-Grandfather Victor Domer, the original owner of Domer’s, Inc. Both were raised in the business, learning the trade alongside studies at Okeechobee High School. With a Bachelor’s in Political Science and Business minor from FSU, Justin manages the business office; Jacob currently attends Indian River State College and manages the shop.