About Whiteford Kenworth
Whiteford Kenworth Celebrates 50 Years as a Kenworth Dealer
Whiteford Kenworth proudly celebrates a remarkable milestone in 2025—its 50th anniversary as an authorized Kenworth dealer. This momentous occasion marks five decades of dedication to delivering premium transportation solutions, best-in-class customer service, and a steadfast commitment to the commercial trucking industry. Special events and commemorations are planned throughout the year across Whiteford’s Ohio and Indiana locations, honoring the company’s loyal customers, employees, and supplier partners.
A Legacy of Innovation, Growth, and Integrity
The roots of Whiteford Kenworth trace back to 1929, when founder David Whiteford began hauling freight throughout Michigan, Ohio, Illinois, and Indiana. Driven by his unwavering commitment to reliability and customer satisfaction, David laid the foundation for what would evolve into a multigenerational, family-owned transportation enterprise. In 1961, David’s eldest son, Ron Whiteford, joined the company and spearheaded a new era of growth—expanding the fleet, establishing new trucking facilities, and introducing the region to full-service maintenance leasing. By 1987, the Whiteford Companies had become the 7th largest full maintenance leasing operation in the nation and ranked among the top 100 trucking operations in the United States.
Partnership with Kenworth and Expansion Across the Region
Whiteford Kenworth’s partnership with Kenworth Truck Company was officially formed in 1975 through the award of a dealer sales and service agreement. In the years that followed, the company expanded its footprint, opening a flagship location in South Bend, Indiana in 1983 and extending operations into Perrysburg, Ohio shortly thereafter. In 1985, the company welcomed its third generation when Ron Whiteford II joined the business. Building on the family’s strong foundation, Ron II acquired the company from his father in 2001 and launched a period of aggressive growth and diversification. Under his leadership, the company added eight new locations across Indiana and Ohio, while expanding services in:
- New & Used Truck Sales
- Leasing & Rental
- Parts & Service
- Body Shop Operations
- Trailer Sales and Service
New Rossford Location Enhances Customer Experience
“Honesty, integrity, and a dedication to delivering excellent customer service are the values my grandfather and father instilled in the Whiteford Companies,” said Ron Whiteford II, President of Whiteford Kenworth. “These principles continue to guide us today, and we’re proud to carry that legacy forward with the opening of our 11th location in Rossford, Ohio this August—strategically located at the intersection of I-75 and the I-80/90 Turnpike.”
The Rossford facility is a state-of-the-art, 78,000-square-foot full-service dealership designed to set a new benchmark for customer experience. Key features include:
- 17 expanded and ergonomic service bays
- 27,000-square-foot parts warehouse with elevated loading docks
- A modern showroom showcasing Kenworth’s latest models
- A driver-focused lounge with laundry, showers, and comfortable rest areas
This new facility underscores Whiteford Kenworth’s continued investment in infrastructure, customer convenience, and its unwavering commitment to representing the Kenworth brand—recognized globally as "The World's Best."
A Message of Gratitude and Looking Ahead
As Whiteford Kenworth celebrates its 50th year as a Kenworth dealer, the company extends heartfelt appreciation to its dedicated employees, valued customers, and trusted supplier partners, all of whom have played an essential role in its success story. “We are incredibly proud of our history, but even more excited about the future,” added Whiteford. “As we continue to grow, we remain focused on delivering the same exceptional service and trust our customers have relied on for generations.”
