Who We Are...
Founded in 1962 by Joseph Leifken Sr.(center), the business began as an American gas station, also providing mechanical repairs and auto body work. Soon the shop became known as the place to go to for frame and structural related damage. The original frame equipment used was manufactured by a company called Bear Automotive Equipment. This frame machine was so unique at the time and such an integral part of the business that the name 'Bear' was incorporated into the name "Denville Bear & Body Service." Older folks may even recall the original Bear advertising logo which was also the model for the Grateful Dead Band dancing bears. Denville Bear & Body Service started with this first location in Denville, NJ and expanded to multiple locations across NJ with over 50 employees.
Founded in 1962 by Joseph Leifken Sr.(center), the business began as an American gas station, also providing mechanical repairs and auto body work. Soon the shop became known as the place to go to for frame and structural related damage. The original frame equipment used was manufactured by a company called Bear Automotive Equipment. This frame machine was so unique at the time and such an integral part of the business that the name 'Bear' was incorporated into the name "Denville Bear & Body Service." Older folks may even recall the original Bear advertising logo which was also the model for the Grateful Dead Band dancing bears. Denville Bear & Body Service started with this first location in Denville, NJ and expanded to multiple locations across NJ with over 50 employees.