About Us

History

In 1905, our founder determined that “excellent workmanship and honest value” would be our defining differences in the industry, and that was a spot-on prediction.

Driven by Quality and Trust

Every day, we still deliver quality, precision, and hands-on support to earn the confidence and long-term loyalty of truck body customers across the United States.

a legacy built to last

Explore our history from a small milk wagon builder to Wisconsin’s leading commercial truck body manufacturer.

Marion starts as a blacksmith shop owned by the Milbauer family, building cattle racks and milk wagons for farmers
1905
Marion starts manufacturing all-aluminum fire apparatus
1964
Wausau Homes acquires the shop and names it Marion Body Works
1971
Vinson "Bud" Simpson purchases the company
1980

Marion launches a new business segment, defense vehicles, to support their partnership with Oshkosh Co.

They begin building wrecker and cargo bodies for the Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck program

1981

Marion constructs a storage building, and an existing building is upgraded to a fully equipped production space

An additional 25% production expansion follows for truck mounting and paint drying

1986

Marion begins building all-aluminum fire truck cabs for custom chassis builders

A 20% factory addition complements the new product line

1996

Marion adds to the manufacturing building to accommodate the growth of van body production

Land is purchased, increasing ownership from 25 to 61 acres

1999
Curt Ignacio and Jim Simpson assume leadership of the business as co-presidents
2003
A new production building is built to increase cab production needs
2004
Marion opens the doors to its new headquarters
2016

Marion expands commercial truck body production by opening a second manufacturing facility in Shawano, WI

We’re proud to be a part of the Shawano community

2022

Kevin Ignacio is named President of Marion Body Works, representing the third generation of leadership for the Simpson-Ignacio family

2023
Marion celebrates a very special 120th anniversary—cheers to many more years!
2025

Thank You, Bud and Jim

When Vinson Raleigh “Bud” Simpson, Jr. purchased Marion Body Works in 1980, he added more than business expertise to the company—he brought a vision rooted in integrity, curiosity, and service. A USAF officer, entrepreneur, world traveler, and lifelong learner, Bud led with purpose, strengthening our company and shaping a culture of excellence that still guides us.

 

His son, James “Jim” Simpson, continued this legacy, co-leading the company with dedication and innovation. Jim’s time with us was cut short when he passed unexpectedly in 2012, but his passion for quality and community left an indelible mark on Marion Body Works.

 

Their legacy lives on in every truck we build and every relationship we forge. We miss you, Bud and Jim.