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 Graue humbly agreed to answer some questions in
his recognition as a community hero.
Asked about a hero that he looks up to because of their character
and courage and/or someone of extreme admiration, Chris immediately
thought of his parents “for all they did for our family and their
community.”
While growing up, Chris watched his mom and dad give tirelessly to
the community, and now he is following in their footsteps. Graue is
often found at events in Lincoln and surrounding areas seeking to be
of service where needed.
Graue has accomplished a lot in his life but there is one thing that
has been a lot harder than he ever expected . . . taking over the
dealership for his dad. “I now understand why he was out of sorts
sometimes when he would get home at night.” Graue Chevrolet Buick in
Lincoln has 35 employees that count on Graue to do the right thing
every minute of every day and that sometimes “can be a heavy load.”
The dealership is actively involved in creating a stronger community
through partnerships with local charities and organizations.
Graue has been involved in scouting, which helps youth develop
self-confidence, leadership skills, and social skills through
activities with friends and family. Learning about themselves
mentally and physically, young people can choose activities that
teach life skills. Scouting brings out the best of each individual,
even in the most challenging situations. Lincoln has Girl and Boy
Scout Troops, which kids can be involved in, and Graue Chevrolet
Buick is happy to support these troops “whether selling cookies,
learning crafts, or earning badges.”
Lincoln Community High School has many activities for young people
to choose from in their teenage years and Graue, Inc. is “proud to
sponsor basketball boosters, baseball boosters, wrestling, soccer,
and choir and theater. It is because of sponsorships that the cost
of activities for students can be kept at minimum so any pupil
wanting to participate has the chance to do so.
Chris, mom
Joan, Wife Phyliss and son Ethan
Graue has “enjoyed all parts of life . . . each segment has had its
own parts that have been enjoyable.” Graue and his wife, Phyllis,
raised three children of their own in Lincoln: Ethan, Olivia and
Jackson. His favorite part of life has been “raising three great
kids and being married to a wonderful woman for 33 years.” He always
told his kids, “Anything worth having, is worth working hard for.”
That wasn’t his only piece of advice to his children. He, also,
instilled in them to “Always think things through.”
Like many people, Graue had to make some changes because of the
Covid Pandemic. Very active in the startup of the Pig’s and Swigs
Festival, spending countless hours with the committee members to
pull off a successful weekend of activities for the community, Graue
was forced to resign from the team in order to spend more time at
the dealership and with his family.
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While he enjoyed being involved early on, it was
necessary to make the positive changes in his life. The dealership
still supports the “Up in Smoke on the Square” barbeque competition,
live local bands, craft beer tent, craft fair, and “Dock Dogs”
diving dog challenge.
The Logan County Fair will take place July 31- August
7, 2022. With carnivals, harness racing, queen pageant, 4-H animal
scrambles, tractor pulls for all ages, rodeo night, demo derby,
talent contest, animal tents, vendors, food, and more, there is
something for everyone in the family to enjoy. “It’s easy to see why
Graue, Inc. is happy to sponsor this long-standing tradition” of
providing entertainment for the whole community.
The Humane Society of Logan County is a shelter for homeless
animals. The shelter relies heavily on volunteers and donations from
individuals and corporations to make a difference in the lives of
animals and families in Logan County. Graue, Inc. is “dedicated to
serving both pets and people” and supports the shelter’s desire to
“reunite lost pets with their owners and find loving homes for pets
in need.”
Graue wouldn’t want to change much of what has happened in his life
saying, “Your level of success is directly tied to how hard you work
and how lucky you are. I’ve been blessed and fortunate beyond
belief.”
When asked about his inspiration for helping the community Graue
responded, “Anytime I can help someone who needs help it makes me
feel good. (It’s) always good to help someone who might be less
fortunate than you.” That is wise guidance for everyone.
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