Indy auctioneer marks 50 years on job

Ralph "Whitey" Shively celebrated 50 years as an auctioneer with Kesler-Schaefer Wholesale Auto Auction Inc.

"Whitey is one of a kind," says Steve Kesler, president of the family owned Indianapolis auction. "He is just a great person who believes in doing things the right way. Unfortunately, his record may never be repeated in this day and age."

Mr. Shively is one of a family of 12 children who grew up in the Great Depression and started working for the auction in 1949. He has worked for three generations of the Schaefer and Kesler families.

His success in the auction business comes from helping other people succeed.

"I try to make sure every one of our dealers leaves the auction happy," says Mr. Shively.