Robert Easterling

Robert Easterling was born into the automobile business. His father Finis Easterling owned several new car dealerships in South Texas.

After graduating from college in 1968 Robert entered the automobile business in Corpus Christi, Texas. Robert, then 24 years old, and partner Ross Shockley opened their first automobile business across from the Padre-Staples Mall in 1970 with a total capitalization of only $20,000. Robert and his wife had saved $2,000 from his selling Volkswagens and his wife's school teaching. Robert then borrowed $5,000 from his mother and $3,000 from his hometown bank. (Yes, Robert did pay his mother back!) Ross Shockely, then 45 years old had his $10,000 to invest in cash.

In 1975 Ross and Robert bought the Chrysler-Plymouth dealership here in Victoria. After several good years in the new car business Ross and Robert sold their Chrysler-Plymouth dealership to some investors from San Antonio.

The present business was opened in its current location in October 1981. Robert's good friend, partner, and mentor Ross Shockley left the business due to health problems in 1983.

Robert and his wife Trisha have 3 children, all University of Texas graduates. Their oldest son Matt, lives in Austin and is in the real estate business. James, the younger son, is heavily involved in Easterling Motors and does the buying for Easterling Motors. Their youngest, a daughter is a medical doctor in Austin.

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