Independence RV Staff
Management Team
Ray Douglas
General Manager
Name Ray Douglas
Title General Manager
Ray was raised as an outdoorsman. Growing up in the "Big Sky" country of western Montana, Ray was introduced to hunting and fishing while growing up in Thompson Falls, MT. He spent his formative years exploring the wilds of Montana spending much of his time on the Clark Fork River. It's a great place to "dry camp" with a Class A motorhome or fifth wheel. The experiences of his early years have carried over. He's an avid fly fisherman, who relishes the opportunity to get back to the solitude of nature and a mountainous landscape that knows no boundaries.
Ray started his RV career in Fort Myers, Florida. He has more than 32 years of RV industry experience with plenty of background in RV trade appraisals. He's a wealth of knowledge that customers should draw upon to help make the right decision on buying an RV that meets their needs.
When Ray isn't helping families and full-time RVers in selecting the perfect diesel pusher or gas motorhome, you'll find him remodeling his own home. He's not bashful about taking a sledgehammer to wallboard or tackling some of the skilled craftsman projects.
Ray shared his most rewarding customer experience - "I love when we deliver a new or used motorhome, and I see it 10,000 miles later with all of the "been there" bumper stickers. The bicycles are hanging off the back of the RV, ready for another adventure."
Justin Mishler
Sales Manager
Name Justin Mishler
Title Sales Manager
Justin was raised in the heart of the RV manufacturing industry in Shipshewana, Indiana. Not only was he raised in a hot bed for RV building, he has worked a number of years in the RV factories, so he’s seen both good and poor quality construction. This adds an interesting perspective for buyers, who are less knowledgeable about RV construction, because Justin can point out important, but subtle differences separating a Newmar Dutch Star from any diesel pusher. He's well versed on every Newmar motorhome from the entry level Newmar Bay Star Sport to the New Aire and Mountain Aire. He re-located to Central Florida in 2004 and has 15 years of Newmar-oriented sales experience.
When Justin is away from the dealership, he enjoys camping with friends and family, and should the opportunity arise – he attends nearby NASCAR events at the Daytona International Speedway. Justin is a member of the American Legion, and he donates his time to help with initiatives of the local Legion Hall. In addition, he is a Mason. Most Rewarding Customer Experience “Just recently, I had a couple, who had spent a considerable amount of time looking for the RV of their dreams. I sat down with them to discuss the RV features and amenities that were important to them. The overwhelming need was for a quality RV that would serve their needs. We located a new motorhome that was perfect for them. A week after purchasing this quality constructed motorhome, they were involved in an accident. Fortunately, no one was hurt, but the motorhome sustained considerable damage. The customers were extremely pleased that we had spent so much time reviewing RVs and selecting one that had the highest quality and safety features – we are all confident that this motorhome saved their lives.” Philosophy in dealing with Customers “My father has always been in sales. He instilled two things in me when dealing with customers – be straight-forward, and honest. This advice has served me well, and I follow this philosophy in my daily selling experience. I also provide my customer with a unique perspective because of my eight years of RV manufacturing background that I look beyond the bells, whistles and frills to the importance of the RV chassis and the construction techniques. I can point-out the unique, but all-important differences among the Spartan K2, Spartan Mountain Master GT, Roadmaster, and Freightliner products – it really opens the eyes of my customers.”
Paul Morrow
Service Manager
Name Paul Morrow
Title Service Manager
Paul Morrow is the Service Manager at Independence RV. He grew up in Mandan, a small town closely located next to Bismarck, the capital of North Dakota. Paul relocated to Central Florida in 2012 bringing extensive RV Service knowledge to share with customers and co-workers. Two strong points in his RV repair background included attending the Spader Service School, as well as the RVIA Service Writer Course. Paul is accomplished at troubleshooting RV electrical repair, RV plumbing repair, and RV chassis maintenance. Paul shares this knowledge with his RV Service Advisors, so they too can diagnosis various RV repairs.
Paul shared one of his most rewarding customer experiences at Independence RV. “One of my most memorable and positive experiences was assisting a customer with a long list of concerns and maintenance issues on his coach. They were planning a big vacation and the RV was at the center of his travel plans. What made the experience rewarding was not only being able to take care of the customer’s service concerns, but to see their smiling faces as they were heading out on their grand adventure!” When asked what philosophy Paul brings when dealing customers, he replied, “I treat RV owners as I would like to be treated. I try to put myself in their shoes, understanding their concerns and needs. Then, I offer solutions tailored to the customer and their recreational vehicle. By following this philosophy, I try to ensure each RV owner is taken care of in a personal and timely fashion, so they have a positive experience at Independence RV”. When Paul isn’t hard at work scheduling RV maintenance, he’s enjoying time with his family and doing home repairs. When he can get away from it all, you’ll find him at his favorite fishing hole with a rod and reel in his hands.
Bud Cherry
Parts Manager
Name Bud Cherry
Title Parts Manager
Independence RV is very fortunate to have found Bud Cherry, its Parts Manager. He’s a U.S. Army vet with five years of service. Bud grew up in Nappanee, IN – the home of Newmar Corp. He worked for Newmar for many years, and in fact, he has 22 years of RV manufacturing and parts background. He understands the product, and he is able to suggest the right part for the right purpose.
In 2013, Bud relocated to Florida and worked for former Newmar dealer. He has joined the Independence RV Sales and Service team, and we are pleased to have him. When asked about his philosophy or business approach when dealing with customers, Bud responded. “Having worked at the Newmar factory for over a decade, it has been instilled in me to follow ‘The Newmar Mission’ of guiding principles which are – courtesy, fairness, honesty, integrity, morality, reasonableness and reliability. These principles have followed me through my entire career. I love the fact I can provide customers with the “right” information, so they can make an educated decision when it comes to accessorizing or repairing their RV.” He continued, “I believe working for a family-owned business is the most rewarding and enriching experience. We are treated just like family here at Independence RV, and personally, I have been welcomed with open arms. I look to help Independence RV grow and prosper even more than they have already done. It is a joy to join a company sharing the same values as I do when it comes to customer satisfaction and integrity.”
When Bud isn’t behind the Parts desk, you’ll find him floating peacefully along on the inner-coastal waters of the Gulf of Mexico. He may or may not have a fishing pole in his hands. If the fish aren’t biting – he’s “swinging the sticks” on one of Central Florida’s challenging golf courses!
Zakary Jordan
Vice-President
Name Zakary Jordan
Title Vice-President
Zak Jordan has grown up in the RV industry. He has traveled continually in Newmar motorhomes since he was a young child. He joined the family owned and operated Newmar dealership in 2012 and served several years in the Independence RV Parts and Accessories Store as the Parts Manager. More recently he has ventured into Sales Department to expand his Newmar RV product knowledge and to learn firsthand what customers are saying and asking about this fine line of luxury diesel pushers and Class A gas motorhomes.
When Zak isn’t heavily involved in the day-to-day operation of a luxury motorhome dealership, you may find him with a freshwater rod and reel in hand at a local lake. Annually, he visits the family’s ranchland in South Dakota where he has room to roam on an ATV, and plenty of fields and undeveloped land perfect for pheasant and deer hunting depending upon the season. Zak is an outdoorsman at heart.
Sales Team
David Scott
Sales Representative
Name David Scott
Title Sales Representative
A native of Central Florida, David has seen the continued development of the Orlando area as a dry camping environment to the poshest of full-service RV campgrounds such as Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort. He has more than 25 years of RV sales experience – and the last 19 years have been at Independence RV helping RV buyers get into a Dutch Star RV or other fine Newmar Motorhome. David has a wonderful understanding of Newmar gas RVs, including Canyon Star and Bay Star motorhomes, just to name a few. He is very knowledgeable about the backbone of the RV – its chassis. He can point-out the unique, but all-important differences among the Ford F-53, Workhorse, Spartan, Roadmaster, and Freightliner products. He's equally skilled on diesel pushers including the Newmar Mountain Aire, Newmar Dutch Star, Newmar Ventana or any Newmar RV.
When David is away from the RV business, he just can’t get enough of machines on wheels! He belongs to several motorsports organizations such as, Sports Car Club of America (SCCA), Competition Motorsports Association (COMMA), and United Super Truck Series (USST). When he’s looking for a quieter undertaking, he can be found outdoors as he’s an avid fisherman, golfer and gardener. Recently, he’s enjoyed a new hobby of attending equestrian sports including Dressage and Jumping events.
Most Rewarding Customer Experience “Recently, I helped a long-time customer locate the perfect coach for him and his wife. It’s the sixth such motorhome they have purchased from me since 1998. They trust me and my advice. Although they are long-time customers, I consider them long-time friends, as well.” Philosophy in dealing with Customers “I’ve learned that you have to be a good listener. I want to hear about the features and comforts that are most important to the customer, then take all the information we’ve gathered together, and find the perfect RV for their needs. I want to help them in any way I can.”
Scott Hamilton
Sales Representative
Name Scott Hamilton
Title Sales Representative
Born and raised in Tampa, Florida, Scott has been working in the RV business for 25 years. He is a graduate of Western Kentucky University with a BS in Finance. Scott started his career as a stockbroker for 11 years, followed by stints as a salesman at various recreational vehicle dealerships. With Scott’s expertise in high-line motorhome sales, he found Independence RV and joined our team. When not working at the dealership, you can find Scott spending time with his family and grandkids, or out on the golf course playing 18 holes.
Scott shared he doesn’t have a “most rewarding customer experience” because as long as he can see a smile and excitement from a customer, that is always rewarding for him.
Scott’s philosophy in dealing with customers - “I have learned to listen to what the customer is searching for, and then I use my knowledge of what they tell me to match them with the perfect coach.”
Malcom Dangler
Sales Representative
Name Malcom Dangler
Title Sales Representative
Malcom grew up in Orlando, FL – long before Mickey Mouse set foot on Central Florida soil. He has over 25-years of RV sales consulting experience. He has a Master Product Professional Certification from Newmar Corporation for the entire line of Newmar motorhomes featured at Independence RV in Winter Garden, FL. In addition, Malcom’s diverse RV background has provided a thorough background in Coachmen RVs, Winnebago motorhomes, Tiffin motorhomes, Fleetwood RVs and a wide array of 5th wheels and travel trailers.
Malcom credits much of his success to early teachings by his father, who said, “Be fair, be honest, and never sit next to a stranger – make him your friend.” Malcom uses these family instilled lessons with his 15 and 11-year old sons. Spending time with his family is the most important thing in the world to him. He’s teaching his eldest son the strategies used in successful chess playing. When Malcom is not at work, he enjoys a round of golf or a few sets of tennis. He’s a member of “The Elks.” When asked about his most rewarding experience as an RV sales consultant, he says, “I don’t have just one. I enjoy meeting prospective RV buyers, getting to know them, listening to their desires, and experiencing places that they’ve always dreamed of seeing…visiting family and friends they haven’t seen in a long time…and taking family vacations with the kids and creating life-long memories. I get to help facilitate these dreams! How great is my job?”
Ricky Dee
Sales Representative
Name Ricky Dee
Title Sales Representative
Sales Representative Ricky Dee is a Newmar expert with over 30 years of Newmar diesel pusher, gas motorhome, and fifth-wheel sales experience. In 2020 he joined Independence RV in Winter Garden, FL from another Newmar-focused dealership in the greater Jacksonville area. He relocated to Central Florida to stay closer with his two adult age sons, who reside in the area.
Ricky grew up in Sarasota, FL where he learned to appreciate saltwater fishing and summertime golf. He later attended the University of Florida where he proclaims to bleed U of F’s “blue and orange” colors. He’s an active member of the University of Florida Alumni Association. His sports interests don’t conclude with UF, as he follows the Jacksonville Jaguars and Major League Baseball. This sports fanatic enjoys sports trivia, so test him if you get the chance!
Although Ricky has never served in the military, he comes from a family where the most important of liberties and freedoms were tested as his late father was involved in the Normandy Beach landing in June 1944. He has the highest level of respect for the Greatest Generation.
Over his 30 years of selling Newmar motorhomes, one of the most enriching experiences was when, as he states, “I had the privilege of assisting a retired combat-wounded Army Colonel with the purchase of a Newmar Canyon Star 3911 handicap-equipped motorhome. I was so happy to help this veteran fulfill life-long travel dreams that otherwise may have gone unanswered.”
When asked about his philosophy in dealing with interested RV buyers, Ricky says, “It’s important to make a friend. Then, help your new friend by listening intently to ‘what they want…and why they want it.’ I’m able to interpret their needs and wants, and most of the time I’m able to introduce them to state-of-the-art RV technology and why the Newmar Difference may best serve their needs.”
Jeff Hanzman
Sales Representative
Name Jeff Hanzman
Title Sales Representative
Jeff Hanzman has recently joined Independence RV Sales and Service, Inc.’s staff after spending over four years at a local rv competitor. Jeff’s prior rv sales experience provides a wide array of RV manufacturer and model familiarity. He can speak of the wonders associated with Tiffin’s Class A diesel pushers and Class C motorhomes to the new line of Vanleigh RV 5th wheels. We encourage you to reach out to him to discuss Winnebago’s Class A gas and diesel motorhomes or Grand Designs family of fifth wheels and travel trailers. He is diligently getting up to speed with the eight model lines of Newmar presented at Independence RV Sales and Service, Inc.
Jeff’s journey to Central Florida started many years ago. In 1972, when he was 8 years-old, his parents plucked him out of his elementary school in Rochester, NY and away from his friends – just as Little League baseball season was about to begin. Jeff has put down roots in the greater Orlando area. He did so by starting his sales career selling automobiles including Nissans, Chryslers, Jeeps and Dodges in the Central Florida area. After 32 years of automotive sales background, it was time to expand his knowledge and horizons by building on his automotive training and venturing into the world of recreational vehicles.
Since Jeff’s early sales years he has learned the value of making friends with his potential buyers and being careful to always have them in a “no pressure” environment when they are making an important buying decision.
When Jeff’s away from our Newmar dealership, he enjoys the challenge of keeping that “little white ball” in the center of the fairway. Too frequently he admits that his golf outings are filled with nature experiences when he’s looking for his elusive golf ball in “the deep rough!” He also enjoys range shooting and camping.
Stop into Jeff and take advantage of his far-reaching RV manufacturing knowledge … you’ll be glad you did!
Jeff Dance
Sales Representative
Name Jeff Dance
Title Sales Representative
Independence RV is proud to announce that Jeff Dance has joined our sales team!
RV sales runs in Jeff’s blood. He is the son of Central Florida auto dealership legend Bob Dance, who had multiple car and RV dealerships. Jeff spent over 30 years growing his auto and RV knowledge while working beside his dad. He cut his eye teeth selling RV brands like Travco and Champion in the 1970s, and continued his career with another local RV dealership just prior to joining us at Independence RV.
If you ask Jeff why he joined Independence RV, he will tell you that it was due to our award-winning reputation for sales and service. Selling industry leading Newmar RVs is also something that attracted him.
A native of Central Florida, Jeffrey grew up in Longwood. He enjoys golf, sailing and travel in his leisure time. He fulfilled a bucket list goal by playing California’s world-famous Pebble Beach, a scenic and demanding golf course. Jeffrey has traveled the world, including circumnavigating Earth’s oceans with his dad. His favorite place is Austria. “When you grow up in Florida, any time you can see something the opposite of the sub tropics, it is special,” Jeff says. “Austria is the complete opposite of Orlando.”
Jeffrey’s customer service philosophy is simple – Under promise and over deliver. “I believe in treating people the way you would want to be treated,” he says.
Stop in and take advantage of Jeff’s vast RV knowledge and passion for service.
Parts Team
Chris Crawford
Customer Relations Coordinator
Name Chris Crawford
Title Customer Relations Coordinator
Chris Crawford is a long time Independence RV employee. He has over 29 years of RV parts and RV service background – 28 of these years have been with Independence RV. Chris is well-versed on many aspects of the latest RV technology, including LED lighting, RV satellite technology, audio/video programming, and more. He’s a great RV troubleshooter and applies his practical experience to help RV owners with solutions to their unique RV repair and use issues. Chris is often found on the phone talking a stranded RVer through potential solutions to retract non-responsive slide-outs, ornery power steps, and a myriad of “I can’t get the dang thing to work” issues. His knowledge of RV systems and repair comes in handy on a daily basis. He’s frequently the lifeline for RVers who are in a “boon docking” or campground setting and need easy to understand instructions on how to temporarily repair an RV issue until they can reach the Independence RV Service Center.
Chris is frequently called upon to provide new product and technology demonstrations when Independence RV visits with Newmar owners’ clubs at local rallies
When Chris isn’t advising RV owners on the latest technology and unique one-of-a-kind RV repair issues, he is an active outdoorsman enjoying hunting, fishing and kayaking. Chris’ philosophy – “Be helpful and honest as Karma has no equal!”
James Pate
eBay Parts Specialist
Name James Pate
Title eBay Parts Specialist
James Pate has grown up in the RV industry with Independence RV Sales and Service, Inc. Six years ago, he started in the Parts Department knowing very little about the workings of a recreational vehicle and the parts and supplies required to keep these RVs performing a top efficiency. He currently serves as the dealership’s eBay Parts Specialist. Needless to say, he is now far more knowledgeable and very proactive when working with RV owners about finding the right replacement part or RV after-market part to make their RV lifestyle more enjoyable. When James was asked about his customer experiences in the Independence RV Parts and Accessories Store he shared, “Seeing customers happy with their new RV, and helping them get all of their supplies to fit their coach needs and to increase their enjoyment for upcoming travel is a nice reward!” James continued, “I’m always honest with the customer, and I like to leave everyone with a smile!”
When James isn’t busy tracking down hard to find RV parts for Newmar RV owners and other RV manufacturer’s products, he enjoys his off-time playing local sports in the City of Apopka including softball, golf and the balance-challenging Hover Board. He’s a member of the local American Legion. He supports American Legion mission statement by honoring the sacrifice of those who serve our Country and enhancing the lives of veterans, active military and their families both at home and abroad.
Tiffanie Wilchar
Parts Representative
Name Tiffanie Wilchar
Title Parts Representative
Growing up in Florida and raised in a military-oriented family, Tiffanie brings her inherent organizing skills to the Independence RV Parts and Accessories Department. She has over 8 years of “Parts” experience in the RV industry. She is stationed behind the counter with her primary focus to support the endless number of parts requests by Independence RV’s Service Department Technicians to repair customer coaches and Newmar warranty claims.
When she is not at her Independence RV post, her weekends are filled with supporting her children’s sports activities with endless hours in the bleachers of local softball or baseball diamonds. When Tiffanie is not leading the cheers, she’ll steal a few important minutes for herself by canoeing on numerous Central Florida lakes and tributaries, or a family camping trip to a Florida State Park or one of the State’s white sand beaches works too!
When asked about her most rewarding experience working at Independence RV, she replied, “I have thoroughly enjoyed the challenge of helping identify the lesser known and more sophisticated Newmar Parts – this fast-paced dealership’s Parts and Accessories Department is the pinnacle of RV industry parts experiences.”
Tiffanie was asked – “what philosophy or business approach” you use in dealing with customers. Her response, “My philosophy is - if I help a customer to the absolute best of my ability and with complete attention, they will always return to us to receive excellent customer service.”
Service Team
Shane Bueschel
Service Advisor
Name Shane Bueschel
Title Service Advisor
Independence RV Service Advisor, Shane Bueschel, is a recent hire to the dealership. He offers 14 years of RV Service and repair history on his resume. He listens attentively to RV customers in the service driveway with clipboard in-hand. Intently interested in absorbing all the input provided by the customer, Shane translates it into meaningful direction for the RV Service Technician to shorten the diagnosis time and more quickly pursue the proper repair.
Shane grew up with sand between his toes as he frequently visited Imperial Beach, a coastal area just west of San Diego. Pick-up games of basketball were a summertime staple of his existence. Shane is also a “foodie” at heart with a palette that savors the cuisines of the world. He relishes little known “mom and pop” restaurants featuring homemade recipes and time-tested blending of flavors and spices. His mouthwatering find – lobster tacos – served plump and challenging for a hand-held treat.
Shane’s day-to-day goals include providing RV service attentiveness as recognized by Independence RV’s back-to-back wins of the coveted Newmar Diamond Award for outstanding RV customer service. His philosophy for a successful work experience: “I’ve believed over the 14 years in the industry, customer satisfaction is always #1!”
Warren Brown
Service Advisor
Name Warren Brown
Title Service Advisor
Service Advisor, Warren Brown is a native of the great state of Massachusetts. He migrated south in 2005 to the local, sleepy Village of Windermere. He and his family enjoy the Central Florida lifestyle – who wouldn’t – there’s no snow shovel involved! When Warren isn’t helping Independence RV service customers diagnose unique issues with their motorhomes, he and his family are using their free time to bicycle the West Orange Trail or throughout Windermere. They take advantage of the famous Central Florida theme parks with visits to the four Walt Disney Resort Theme Parks, as well as Sea World.
If there’s a local country music concert of interest, you can be assured of finding Warren toe-tapping to the beat of the music. Warren is an active member of Dream Builders, a men’s network focused on helping individuals achieve their dreams. We all need dreams…and Warren helps them come to fruition. Although Warren is new to Independence RV, he is not new to the RV industry - he has over 10-years of RV industry experience.
His philosophy in dealing with RV owners in his position as a Service Advisor is ‘each motorhome in the service driveway gives me a chance to help someone.’ Recently, he was chatting with an Independence RV service customer, and found family similarities to his own family regarding vacationing and free-time activities. They quickly found themselves trading stories regarding vacation destinations and interesting side notes. Somewhere during the conversation, the customer mentioned an unusual noise he was hearing from his RV when the vehicle was traveling at a slow rate of speed. Warren notated the irregularity and subsequently the Independence RV Service Technician was able to locate the root cause of the noise. It was good he did, as the repair was made immediately – otherwise it might have been an expensive proposition. In fact, the repair was covered under the existing manufacturer’s chassis warranty. To the point, something just mentioned in passing ended up helping the customer and saving him money. A strong bond has been developed between the RV customer and the dealership’s Service Dept.
Tom Jenkins
Service Advisor
Name Tom Jenkins
Title Service Advisor
Tom Jenkins is a Service Advisor at Independence RV. He brings 28 years of automotive and recreational vehicle service knowledge to bear for RVers in need of mechanical insight and troubleshooting.
Tom hails from Schenectady, New York – the city that “Lights and Hauls the World,” which is a reference to two prominent businesses in the city, the Edison Electric Company (now known as General Electric), and the American Locomotive Company (ALCO). It must have been the sound of locomotives and loud noises that got Tom’s attention at an early age. He loves any thing auto sports related. He’s a big fan of drag racing, NASCAR, motorcycle racing and classic cars. In fact, he’s a member of National Hot Rod Association (NHRA). So, when he’s not behind the wheel of something that is ready to roar, you’ll find him behind the Service Advisor’s desk in the Independence RV Service Department.
When Tom was asked about his most rewarding aspect of his job, he replied, “I enjoy assisting a customer in a difficult situation by getting repairs completed, so they can get back on the road and enjoying their RV!”
Tom’s perspective on his involvement in the RV industry is unique – “The Sales Department sells the first coach…but it’s the Service Department that sells all subsequent coaches by providing excellent service that keeps the customer coming back.”
So, stop by when your RV needs service, and have a nice chat with Tom, you’ll be glad you did!
Don Snell
Master Certified Technician / Shop Foreman
Name Don Snell
Title Master Certified Technician / Shop Foreman
Don has 45 years of RV service and RV repair experience - the last 18 years at Independence RV. Don’s vast knowledge of the Mountain Aire RV serves him well with RV plumbing repairs, RV electrical repairs and troubleshooting, and RV appliance repair and installation. He serves as the Shop Foreman providing his knowledge and sharing his hands-on RV service and repair experience with all of Independence RV’s service technicians. He started his RV maintenance and repair career in his native New Jersey. In 1979, Don re-located to Central Florida. His years of RV servicing experience plus the numerous RV technical training schools he has attended has helped Don Snell to become a Master Certified RV Technician. When Don isn’t working on an RV refrigerator repair or an RV air conditioner repair he can be found on the “back nine” at the local golf course or enjoying his own RV while camping or attending a local racing event.
Most Rewarding Customer Experience “One day while I was as busy as could be, a tourist driving his Newmar RV stopped at Independence RV for a quick RV repair. I was able to temporarily stop the repair I was doing, in order to help him and his family, so they could continue to enjoy their vacation at Walt Disney World®. They were really pleased with the outcome, especially since they had thought their vacation was going to be ruined.”
Ed Nicklaus
ASE Certified Mechanic
Name Ed Nicklaus
Title ASE Certified Mechanic
Ed Nicklaus is more than an RV mechanic…he’s a mechanic’s mechanic. He has 25 years of quality service and repair experience at Independence RV, working on every type of Newmar RV including the Mountain Aire RV and New Aire luxury diesel pusher to a Class A gas motorhome like the Newmar Canyon Star. He is ASE, Spartan® and Freightliner® certified too! When away from the dealership, Ed is a model train enthusiast. He applies his natural mechanical and tinkering ability to building, repairing and operating a magnificent model train collection.
Most Rewarding Customer Experience “There’s this Swiss couple, who bought a Ventana from Independence RV. They come over here two or three times a year, but always for a short visit. One-time we helped them out by getting their RV and tow vehicle out of a local storage facility to perform requested repairs before they arrived, so their vacation is unimpacted. They’re nice…it makes me feel good to help them.”
Jeff Courterier
Master Certified Technician
Name Jeff Courterier
Title Master Certified Technician
Jeff Courterier specializes in RV renovation, RV roof repair, RV floor repair, RV door repair and RV cabinet modifications. Jeff brings 33 years of RV craftsmanship and repair to Independence RV from his upbringing in Northern Michigan. An excellent carpenter, accomplished roofer, skilled tile layer, and RV master craftsman are all skills Jeff learned from his father. Jeff Courterier is an RVIA Master Certified RV Service Technician, who has a great knowledge of any Newmar RV, especially the Mountain Aire RV. Jeff enjoys the great outdoors when he’s vacationing or relaxing over the weekend. He frequently can be found camping and fishing on Florida’s East or West coast. Jeff and his family also enjoy Central Florida’s theme parks. He’s also an avid cruise ship vacationer - but only when his NFL team - Jacksonville Jaguars are not playing at home.
Most Rewarding Customer Experience “A customer had his RV loaded for an extended trip across America. He realized that during one of the afternoon showers found in Central Florida that his coach had an RV roof leak. I was able to quickly diagnose the problem, find the point of entry and make a repair that would stand-up over an extended period of time. The customer was on his way in no time with a watertight roof over his head!”
Tim Scott
Master Certified Technician
Name Tim Scott
Title Master Certified Technician
Tim Scott, a native of Springfield, OH, moved to Central Florida in 1981. He has since married and is very proud of his three beautiful daughters. He now calls the land of “love bugs and alligators” his home.
Tim has worked in the RV industry for more than 20 years. He has worked on entry level recreational vehicles like pop-up all the way up to Featherlite – a Prevost bus converter. He puts his experience and knowledge to work on a daily basis and he continues to expand his repair education as new and unique challenges surface.
When Tim isn’t handling a box wrench, you will find him at a local fishing hole, maybe with a grandchild or two. They think grandpa is an expert at putting wiggly worms on hooks, catching fish, and they are amazed at his fish stories…each time he tells a tale…the fish gets bigger! Tim enjoys his interaction with Independence RV service customers and enjoys his work when they return with a new problem and ask for him by name to do the repair. Tim’s approach to doing his job – “I treat everyone like family, and I’m here to help them.”
John Dungan
Master Service Technician
Name John Dungan
Title Master Service Technician
A recent hire to Independence RV’s Service Department is Master Service Technician, John Dungan. He hails from Springfield, Oregon where in his youth he was an avid logger. His Summer days were filled with axe swinging and logging duties with his family along the well-forested Williamette River. He even participated in numerous axe throwing, underhand chopping, standing block chop and chainsaw competitions, such as the Estacada Timber Festival. His axe wielding days put him in great physical shape which made him ready for football season and wreaking havoc as a defensive end at Springfield High School.
John has been heavily involved in the RV industry for the past 31 years. He’s a member of the RVIA and RVDA. He migrated to Central Florida in 1996. He is well-versed in RV service and repairs. John has a background in RV electrical troubleshooting, RV plumbing and repairs, and RV awning repairs.
When John Dungan isn’t plying his RV troubleshooting and repairs, you’ll find him spending time with his family, and if time and finances permit, he’ll be absorbed in classic car restoration.
John’s philosophy in dealing with RV Service customers is, “each customer is different, so I listen to them and approach the repair or troubleshooting with the benefit of their day-to-day experience with the problem to more quickly diagnose the issue and repair it!”
Joe Middleton
Service Technician
Name Joe Middleton
Title Service Technician
Joe Middleton is a Service Technician at Independence RV. He has more than 13 years of RV service and repair background. One of his specialties – RV roof repair, but there are plenty of RV repairs to be performed on a daily basis at Independence RV.
Joe grew up in Dublin Ohio (home to Wendy’s Hamburgers) where in his youth he fished along the banks of the Scioto River. When he wasn’t snagging “the catch of the day,” he was trying his athletic skills with a golf club in his hand and dreaming of playing in the PGA’s Memorial Golf Tournament held at Dublin’s Muirfield Village Golf Club.
When asked what has been one of your most rewarding experiences in RV service, he shared a specific instance, “I helped an RV customer via a phone call who was having trouble with a poorly performing air conditioning unit. The customer was on the road and not located near a repair facility. I knew how important this vacation was to his family and him. I talked him through a solution, and they were able to continue their trip with cool, refreshing air conditioning.”
Joe has a great philosophy when dealing with RV repair issues – “Treat whatever you are working on like it’s your own home, in that way everything is in tip-top condition!”
When Joe gets homesick for Dublin, Ohio you might find him in the drive thru lane at Wendy’s Hamburgers getting a “Frosty” – it’s the little things!
Tony Lancaster
Paint and Body Technician
Name Tony Lancaster
Title Paint and Body Technician
Tony Lancaster offers RV paint, RV body work and repair utilizing 25 years of practical experience - the last 13 years at this dealership working on many Newmar motorhomes
including the Dutch Star RV. His skills include RV dent removal, RV basement compartment replacement, RV body work repairs, touch-up RV painting, RV cosmetic repairs and RV graphic application. Tony carries numerous certifications for RV painting and body work. So, bring your damaged Newmar Mountain Aire or any Newmar RV to Independence RV and you can feel confident that Tony's capable hands will nurse it back to factory fresh appearance.
When time permits, Tony is an avid fisherman. He enjoys the serenity of an out-of-the-way lake where he can kickback and daydream as he watches the blue skies and white puffy clouds of Central Florida go by.
Tony’s had many rewarding customer experiences, but one in particular comes to mind – “A customer had purchased a Newmar motorhome from Independence RV, and the first time he took it out for a weekend camping experience, he cut a corner a bit too tightly at the RV campground resort and scratched the full-body Masterpiece Finish along the passenger’s side. I was able to match the paint perfectly. He was really pleased that his inexperience behind the wheel of an RV would not have long lasting effects on the paint and finish of his new Newmar motorhome.
Justin Jordan
Delivery Coordinator
Name Justin Jordan
Title Delivery Coordinator
Justin Jordan was raised in Windermere, FL – just a short drive from the dealership’s location in Winter Garden. With more than four years of hands-on RV industry experience, customers are impressed with this young man’s RV knowledgeable – he’s a great RV troubleshooter!
With multiple recreational vehicle deliveries each week, Justin spends several hours for each delivery educating the RV buyers on the nuances of their motorhome, and how to properly maintain it so they spend more time enjoying the RV lifestyle and less time waiting for RV service and repair.
When Justin has the opportunity, he and his brother, Zak, enjoy spending time on the family’s South Dakota ranch land which has been in the family for many decades. The open spaces allow Justin to relax while fishing and hunting in the Dakotas or locally in the rural areas of Central Florida. He’s a member of the National Rifle Association.
Justin also has a love for the sea and deep-sea fishing. He holds a skipper’s license to captain large fishing vessels, and he’s a card-carrying member of the Merchant Marine. He’s also a member of the Republican National Committee.
Justin says his most rewarding part of his job, as a Delivery Coordinator, is helping Independence RV’s vehicle purchasers fully-understand their Newmar motorhome or another recreational vehicle. He strongly feels he should treat each RV buyer – as he would want to be treated - if he were the buyer.
Shane Bueschel
Delivery Coordinator
Name Shane Bueschel
Title Delivery Coordinator
Independence RV Service Advisor and Delivery Coordinator, Shane Bueschel, is a valued addition to the dealership. As an advisor he offers 14 years of RV Service and repair history on his resume. He listens attentively to RV customers in the service driveway with clipboard in-hand. Intently interested in absorbing all the input provided by the customer, Shane translates it into meaningful direction for the RV Service Technician to shorten the diagnosis time and more quickly pursue the proper repair. With his vast experience working on most RV brands Shane is always willing to share his knowledge with customers as he assists with many Independence RV delivery presentations.
Darion Ramos
Service Technician
Name Darion Ramos
Title Service Technician
Darion moved with his family to Florida from Long Island, New York in 2015 when he was 18. Mechanically inclined, growing up his family would always find him fixing things, taking them apart and putting them back together again. As an adult he knew he wasn’t cut out for community college, but knew he wanted a vocational career since he liked working with his hands. He soon set his sights on technical college, selecting Universal Technical Institute (UTI) for his certificate in automotive mechanics.
After graduating from UTI, Darion went to work for a national RV rental company for five years learning all about RV repair and maintenance. After a year working as the project manager for the family construction company, in late 2022 he joined Independence RV. Boy is he glad he did! Although he is very confident handling most repair jobs, he likes feeling free to ask other service technicians for advice.
When asked what he likes most about his job at Independence RV he answered, “It’s the comradery and the variety of work I enjoy the most.” For example, one day he might be fixing power awning sensors on a Class A RV and the same day he might find himself trouble shooting an electric tongue jack on a trailer.
For Darion it’s all in a day’s work and he is proud to say he has no trouble keeping up with the other more experienced techs in the shop. RVTI online technical training ensures he’ll continue to grow his career as a top service technician at Independence RV.
On his days off you might find Darion working on high performance street race cars. He spends the rest of his free time at the beach, exploring all the Orlando area theme parks and hanging out with family. Come Monday he is always eager to tackle the next job.