I am excited to introduce David Radtke, the heart and soul behind Radtke Appliance, a family-owned business that has been serving our community for over seven decades. With a warm smile and a genuine passion for his work, David shares his journey of becoming owner of a staple in the Lake Country area that began at a young age. Having been actively involved in the family business since his early teens, he seized the opportunity to run the store when his father semi-retired in 1974.
Over the years, David has built a thriving local company alongside his brother-in-law, Tony Brockway. But the Radtke legacy doesn’t stop there. Today, David is proud to have his three step-children working side by side with him, contributing their expertise in all aspects of the store. Beyond the realm of appliances, David is devoted to his role as a loving grandparent to nine incredible kids and adults.
As we dive deeper into his story, prepare to be inspired by his warmth, wisdom, and genuine commitment to serving others in our community!
About David Radtke
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I have a wife, two siblings, 3 step-children and 9 wonderful grandkids, all of which live in the area. I’m a lucky guy!
Q: Please tell us about your life and what you do (whether working in our community, a business owner, volunteer, etc.). How did you choose that path?
I operate Radtke Appliance during the day. This path was presented to me as an opportunity from my parents. I became actively involved with my father’s business early on, and was doing part orders at the age of 14. My dad semi-retired in 1974, which opened the opportunity for me to run the store. I was 20 years old at the time. My brother-in-law, Tony Brockway, started working in the sales department, and I did servicing, delivery, and installs. As time progressed, we were joined by my three step children, who are all actively involved in all aspects of the store today. I am fortunate in my career because my parents laid the foundation, and I am grateful for that.
My off hours are spent enjoying time with my grandchildren. I work on projects, enjoy going up north, trap shooting, snowmobiling and four wheeling. Long ago, I also used to repair damaged accident vehicles which I enjoyed.
Q: What do you love most about what you do?
Solving an appliance issue for a customer has always been, and continues to be, satisfying. My uncle used to say “make your work your hobby and you will be the happiest man alive.”
Q: What is the most rewarding part?
When I know I have helped someone find the right “fit” in an appliance that serves their needs within their budget.
Q: What are some of your future goals? Do you have anything exciting coming up that you would like to share?
Next year will be our 75th year in business. That feels exciting to me.
Q: What advice would you give to someone interested in doing something similar to what you have done/are doing?
Find a job with a company where you can walk away at closing and not worry about work again until the next day.
David Radtke & Our Community
Q: What is your favorite thing about our community, favorite thing to do, or something unique about our community that you love?
I like the diversity of the Oconomowoc area. From farms to beautiful lake homes. I have had the opportunity to see many aspects of the Lake Country area because of my line of work.
Q: Who is an interesting person you’ve met here in our community, and how have they inspired you?
My father Ray Radtke was a kind and fair person. He was my biggest inspiration. He worked hard for everything he acquired in life, but was always willing to help most anyone who needed it. I was lucky to be his son and to have known him.
Q: Do you have a favorite coffee shop, cocktail shop, or restaurant?
Schwefels, for liver dumpling soup. The Wisconsin Club, for its history and ambience. Anywhere that makes a good brandy old fashioned!
Q: What 3 words would you use to describe our community?
Friendly, changing, thriving.
For Fun
Q: What is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I love airplanes, history and music trivia.
Q: If you were a drink (can be a coffee drink, alcoholic, non-alcoholic, etc.), what would you be?
A tall drink of water.
Q: If you could have lunch with anyone, who would it be with? Why?
Alive or deceased? My Dad was the best guy I knew. I would eat lunch with him.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
I enjoy road trips and would like to see more of the states. Doing Route 66 would be on the list.
Q: What makes you the happiest?
My grandchildren. They range in age from 2 years old, to 22 years old. I enjoy spending time with them and seeing all their potential.
Where to Find David Radtke
David Radtke
Radtke Appliance, Inc.
682 E Wisconsin Ave, Oconomowoc, WI 53066
(262) 567-4873
radtkeappliance.com
