About Us

Ralph and Eloise Greulach founded Van Wert Propane in 1957. Ralph began delivering propane as a side job at night - delivering fuel oil during the day.  Although propane was relatively new to home heating, he decided to take a chance at it.

Van Wert Propane began with a bobtail and a few customer tanks. Eloise ran the office out of their house on Cavett Street in Van Wert. She answered the phone, scheduled deliveries, and did the bookkeeping. Ralph made the deliveries in the evening after finishing his regular job. He would drive his bobtail to the Lima Refinery to fill up as needed. 

Eventually, Ralph and Eloise’s hard work paid off. He established enough customers that he could quit his day job and focus his efforts on selling propane. A while later, they expanded by building a small office and putting an 18,000 gallon storage tank at the current location. Ralph initiated a relationship with a supplier to fill the storage tank, a relationship that we continue to maintain over 60 years later. Our deep loyalty to them affords us a stable supply, even in times of shortages.

A second generation came into the business, their daughter Bonnie. She was involved at a young age. Bonnie began working part-time, while in high school, and later became involved in the business full time. By then, the business was steadily growing, and Bonnie took over the bookkeeping and helped with customer service. The business remained strong, with more customers and employees than ever before. Ralph remained heavily involved in the business throughout this time.

The third generation, their grandson Travis, became involved in the business at a young age. He grew up being involved, as his mom, Bonnie, brought him into work often. This exposure allowed him to learn a lot from his grandpa Ralph, and the other employees.  Ralph instilled a lot of good traits and his love for the business in Travis. 

In 1989, they established Fort Jennings Propane in Fort Jennings, Ohio.  This second location services Putnam County and the surrounding areas.  At this time, Ralph continued to stay involved and rarely missed a day of work.

Currently, Travis runs the business. This summer, a fourth generation will enter into the business, his son Evan. Having spent many summers at work, Evan is ready to become involved. Van Wert Propane is truly a family business with dedicated employees. As one of the best propane providers in the area, Travis maintains a commitment to Ralph and Eloise's values of hard work and fair treatment to customers and employees alike. Along with our excellent employees, he makes Van Wert Propane and Fort Jennings Propane a special business.