Small businesses are the backbone of the United States economy.

The owners of these small businesses are entrepreneurs who often take significant financial and operational risks, provide employment opportunities, and contribute creativity and ingenuity to the commerce of their communities. Many business owners work long hours, endure difficult challenges, and make personal sacrifices to keep their businesses thriving.

Our research team at Expansion Support Services, owners of the County Advisory Board, identified Ratterree’s Body Shop as a business that is appreciated by its customers and provides valuable services.

What makes this recognition even more meaningful is the deep-rooted history behind the business. The story of Ratterree’s Body Shop traces back to the 1970s, when Chris Ratterree’s grandfather—after becoming a widower—took a tremendous risk by securing a large loan and starting a car dealership while raising his children on his own. Through perseverance, faith, and determination, he built not only a livelihood but a legacy that would inspire generations of his family.

That foundation continued into the late 1990s, when he operated salvage yards and auto shops, passing down both knowledge and work ethic. Chris’s father carried that momentum forward, further establishing and growing the business.

By the age of 13, Chris was already involved as a shop hand, learning the trade from the ground up. Before finishing high school, he was not only assisting but taking on major repair jobs. After just a year of working full-time in the shop, he was already handling large, complex projects—demonstrating the skill, determination, and work ethic that would define his career.

Like many small businesses, the journey was not without hardship. In 2008, a devastating fire destroyed the original body shop, resulting in the loss of everything they had built. However, through resilience and unity, the family found an opportunity in a long-vacant shop that still had tools and equipment inside. Chris, his father, and his grandfather came together to rent that space, rebuilding from the ground up.

For several years, they saved diligently until they were able to purchase a property that needed significant work. With determination, they transformed it into a functioning shop, even renting part of the space to a motorcycle business for a time. As Ratterree’s Body Shop continued to grow, they eventually outgrew that location.

After researching multiple properties and spending time in thoughtful consideration and prayer, an unexpected opportunity arose. The owner of what would become their current location showed up at their shop, and within a week, a deal was made. Starting with a simple metal building and two lots, the business steadily expanded. They relocated equipment piece by piece—taking nearly six months to move even major items like the paint booth—and gradually acquired neighboring lots to support their continued growth.

Today, the business remains proudly family-owned and operated. After Chris’s father retired, ownership extended to other family members, including brothers and cousins, keeping the legacy strong. The next generation is already stepping in, with children around 10 years old learning the trade and helping as shop hands—just as Chris once did.

Ratterree’s Body Shop has become more than just a business; it is a cornerstone of the community. The family continues to share their passion beyond the shop, including racing together across generations, with even Grandpa still making appearances at the shop.

Their commitment extends deeply into the community. As a Christian-based business, they regularly assist widows by checking vehicle fluids at no cost, and they actively support local organizations such as the Lions Club, youth basketball and football teams, cheerleading groups, and even orphanages. No matter how busy they are, they make it a priority to help those in need—firmly believing that their willingness to serve others is a key reason their business continues to be blessed with growth and opportunity.

The company’s continued success speaks to the dedication and ability of Chris Ratterree to overcome the many obstacles that come with business ownership.

We take this moment to acknowledge and thank Chris Ratterree for the past, present, and future contributions that Ratterree’s Body Shop and its staff have made—and will continue to make—in Wright County, Missouri.

Chris Ratterree, you are highly commended and appreciated for your role as a business owner and for the impact you have made in your community.

Ratterree’s Body Shop is accepting customers and hiring for its auto body repair services. Call 417-926-6862 TODAY!

Please shop local and support this Top Gun Wright County local business!