When I caught up with Colleen Timpson, controller at Timpson Transport, it was clear that this family-owned business in Lowell, Michigan, is more than just a transport company—it’s a living testament to resilience, adaptability, and an unshakable commitment to family and community. Together with her husband, John, the Timpsons have not only carried forward a legacy that started four generations ago but also instilled the same family values that continue to drive the business today.
From Orchards to Oversized Loads: The Evolution of Timpson Transport
The roots of Timpson Transport trace back to the family’s apple orchards on Timpson Avenue in Alto, where John’s great-grandfather, Edwin Timpson, cultivated 140 acres of apples. As time went on, John’s grandparents, John Jacob and Vivian, expanded the business to 500 acres, with farms in Alto and Keene Township.
In the late 1950s, John Robert and Judy took over, maintaining the orchard and operating the controlled atmosphere packing facility that stored the harvested apples. Under their leadership, the family’s business continued to thrive, but they also laid the foundation for a future that would go far beyond farming.
“John’s parents were hardworking and forward-thinking,” Colleen reflects. “They had a vision for what the business could become, and their determination paved the way for everything we’ve built today.”
Then, in 1981, tragedy struck.
“On May 18, 1981, our packing storage facility burned to the ground,” she recalls. “It was one of the largest fires in Kent County at the time.”
Yet, by the end of that same year, a new building had risen from the ashes—on Segwun Avenue. As construction began, the family discovered a hidden treasure beneath the land: high-quality sand.
“We started providing the sand to small local projects, and it just took off from there,” Colleen explains. As the apple business was phased out, more and more trees were cleared, and by 2003, Timpson Transport had fully transitioned from orchard operations to sand and transport services.
A Love Story with Trucks and Pizza
John’s passion for trucking was always part of the family’s story. “Trucking was always John’s thing,” Colleen says with a smile. In fact, their first date hinted at what their future together would hold.
“John took me to look at Peterbilt trucks,” she laughs. “And then he took me out for pizza. That’s how I knew what I was getting into.”
John had already been hauling fruit for the orchard and other growers, which laid the groundwork for Timpson Transport’s entry into the trucking industry. His enthusiasm for trucking, combined with her business acumen, made them the perfect team to guide the company through its next phase of growth. Before long, Kerkstra Precast and King Milling came calling, and Timpson Transport’s reputation for reliability and quality service kept the business rolling forward.
Specialized Loads and Sand for Major Projects
Today, Timpson Transport specializes in hauling oversized loads, particularly precast concrete. Their fleet includes 8-axle trailers capable of handling wide loads, stretch trailers, and steerable equipment for hauling concrete bridge beams up to 200 feet long.
“It keeps getting bigger every year,” Colleen notes, adding that Kerkstra remains one of their biggest clients, with loads hauled daily.
The company’s sandpit operations also remain a key component of the business.
“We’re strictly wholesale,” she explains. “Our 10-yard loader isn’t built to load small vehicles—it’s built for big jobs.”
Timpson sand has been used in major projects, including the I-96/Beltline interchange and numerous building projects in Ada.
A Commitment to Community—And Family First
While Timpson Transport moves heavy loads across Michigan and beyond, their biggest impact may be felt right in their own community.
“John’s a giving individual,” Colleen says with pride. “He has a lot of equipment, and he’s always ready to help where he can.”
From donating road barriers and sand to the City of Lowell when the fairgrounds flooded to assisting King Milling when water levels rose, Timpson Transport steps up when the community is in need. They’ve also volunteered their time and equipment for projects like the removal of old playground equipment to make way for the new King Milling Creekside Kingdom.
That unwavering commitment to giving back hasn’t gone unnoticed. In recognition of their decades of community service, Timpson Transport was recently honored with the Business Appreciation Award by the Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce.
For the Timpsons, their dedication to the community is simply an extension of their family values. “We were raised to help out where we can,” Colleen says. “And we’re passing that same mindset down to the next generation.”
The Backbone of Timpson Transport: Family and a Devoted Team
While Timpson Transport’s success can be traced back to the family’s perseverance and adaptability, John is quick to point out that their success wouldn’t be possible without their loyal team.
“I wouldn’t be anywhere without my employees—they are the backbone of our business,” he emphasizes.
Many of Timpson Transport’s employees have been with the company for 15, 20, even 30+ years—a testament to the positive work environment and the strong sense of family that permeates the company.
“Our employees stay with us because they know they’re valued, and we truly couldn’t do what we do without them,” Colleen adds.
The Timpsons have cultivated a culture where their employees feel like an extension of the family, and that trust and loyalty have become the foundation of Timpson Transport’s continued success.
A Bright Future: The Next Generation at the Helm
As they look ahead, the future of Timpson Transport is already in the capable hands of the next generation.
“Our daughters are involved, and they’re learning the ropes just like we did,” Colleen shares. “We’ve built something special here, and it’s amazing to watch the next generation take an interest in carrying that forward.”
With daughters, Katie Timpson and Ellie Timpson, nieces, nephews, and many loyal employees in the mix, Timpson Transport remains a family-centered business that values long-term relationships and commitment to community.
“We’re counting the days until our 11-year-old grandson can join us,” Colleen says with a grin. “He already loves working with the equipment and can even drive some of it.”
Memorable Moments on the Road
When asked about memorable moments, Colleen recounts a nerve-wracking trip to Detroit with John.
“We were near Ford Field, and the tight turns made getting into the city a challenge,” she recalls.
But perhaps the most unforgettable journeys have been across the Mackinac Bridge.
“Crossing the bridge is highly regulated—you can only cross at certain times, (such as) between 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM, and sometimes the wind is too strong to cross, which means waiting until the next day,” she explains.
The Timpsons have even hauled precast concrete for projects on Mackinac Island, loading trucks onto a barge to get the job done.
Join the Family: Be Part of Something Bigger
For those interested in joining a company where family and community come first, Timpson Transport is always looking for drivers. You can learn more or inquire about opportunities by visiting Timpson Transport’s website.
From apple orchards to oversized loads, Timpson Transport’s journey is a story of perseverance, growth, and a deep-rooted commitment to family and community. And with the next generation eager to take the wheel, the legacy is far from over.
All photos courtesy of the Timpson Family.
Leave a Reply