Peter Veldman:
Dutch Immigrant, American Entrepreneur (Second Edition)

by Andrea Midgett
Peter Veldman: Dutch Immigrant, American Entrepreneur
$ 24.99
In Stock
Details & Pricing
  • Manufacturer Part #: PVBOOK2
  • Product Details:
    • Hardcover, 313 pages
    • Publisher: Wilma Veldman
    • ISBN: 978-0-692-46373-4
    • Product Dimensions:
      8.3 x 6.0 x 1.2 inches
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Description

Hardworking. Determined. Courageous.

Peter Veldman, founder of Tire Rack, always stood up to challenges. He was the 14-year-old eldest son of a farmer in eastern Holland when Germany invaded. As recounted in Veldman’s own words—the words of a master storyteller—his teenage years were filled with near escapes, efforts to outwit the occupiers, the tedium of isolation—and hope. Hope for life, for liberation, for meaningful work.

After World War II ended, we learn in "Peter Veldman: Dutch Immigrant, American Entrepreneur," that Veldman’s determination and love of risk pushed him to the United States—alone at first—and eventual entrepreneurial success. He worked as a migrant laborer, then was drafted and sent to Korea. Not speaking much English, not yet an American citizen, he answered the summons to serve his new country, even though it meant three years before he could return to Holland and marry the woman he loved. Next came factory work, dairy farming, service stations—each experience a lesson in American life.

Unpretentious, outgoing, optimistic, a keen observer of people and events, a devout Catholic, Veldman never stopped seeking the next big opportunity. He created work for himself and his family, plus many of his 11 siblings and their families as they followed him to the United States. Today, what Veldman began in automotive service in South Bend, IN, has become Tire Rack, a very successful online tire distribution business that employs over 650 people—and remains a family affair.

This account of Pete Veldman's life will inspire readers interested in history, entrepreneurship or simply a good story.

Folds of Honor Logo

All proceeds from the sale of this book will benefit
The Folds of Honor Foundation.
Folds of Honor is a charitable organization which provides educational scholarships to the children and spouses of those military service members fallen or disabled while serving our nation.

Endorsements

  • "The story of Peter Veldman's remarkable life is the story of what is best about America. Peter was an immigrant who came to America barely speaking English and with few possessions, but through hard work, passion, and integrity he built a highly successful business. With his wife, Wilma, he raised a large, loving family to which he was devoted. He was a man of faith who was tremendously generous with his time and wealth. His warmth and kindness touched many lives. His story reminds us of the highest ideals of our nation, and how we should live."

    Rev. John I. Jenkins, C.S.C.

    - President, University of Notre Dame, 2005-2024

  • "I know you will enjoy this remarkable story of a remarkable man, and be inspired as much by his life story as I have been."

    Dr. Carolyn Y. Woo

    - President and CEO, Catholic Relief Services; Dean, Mendoza College of Business, University of Notre Dame, 1997-2011

  • "Peter Veldman was a gift to America from the Netherlands. His inspirational story is all about hard work, love, family, dreams, belief in God, trust, and integrity. This should be required reading in all high schools and business schools in America."

    Bruce T. Halle

    - Founder and Chairman, Discount Tire

  • "Peter Veldman lived a life of adventure and achievement. His initiative and intelligence to survive the occupation of Holland by the Nazis during WWII were just the beginning. As a young man he struck out alone for America, the country that would eventually become his home and the home of many of his family members. He served in the U.S. Army with distinction in Korea, though he was not yet a U.S. citizen. And then he went to South Bend, Indiana, where he built a successful business that thrives today. This is a compelling read, one you won't put down quickly."

    Joe Kernan

    - former Governor of Indiana

  • "Peter Veldman's life reads like a historical passage. 'Risk is another word for opportunity,' he said, and the success of his company was built on that belief. He was truly a champion."

    John Gamauf

    - retired President, Bridgestone North American Tire

  • "With great admiration I read the life story of Peter Veldman, a man who came to America with a dream. Hard work and imagination made him successful, but through it all he remained a simple, humble Dutchman.

    Arie Luyendyk

    - two-time winner of the Indianapolis 500

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