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Paw Paw Rentals Announces New Family Ownership, Honoring 36-Year Legacy and Investing in the Future

PAW PAW, Mich. — Paw Paw Rentals, a family-owned equipment and event rental business serving Southwest Michigan since 1989, has been acquired by the Roskam family, ensuring the company’s long-standing tradition of family ownership and community commitment will continue into its next chapter.

Founded and operated by Tim and Lori Tuma for more than 36 years, Paw Paw Rentals has built a reputation as a trusted resource for homeowners, contractors, and event organizers throughout the region. Known for its customer service and knowledgeable team, the business has become a staple in the community.

Under the new ownership of Nick Roskam, that legacy will remain at the heart of the company.

Roskam, a Southwest Michigan native and graduate of Western Michigan University, spent more than a decade in Chicago building and scaling a software company. He and his family returned to the area in 2023 and now reside in Sister Lakes.

“When we learned Paw Paw Rentals was for sale, it immediately stood out because of what the Tuma family built,” Roskam said. “For more than three decades, they created something that people in this community truly rely on. We feel incredibly fortunate to carry that forward and keep it a family-owned business.”

The transition will take place over the coming months, with the Tuma family working closely alongside the Roskams to ensure a seamless handoff and continued high level of service.

“We’re incredibly proud of what Paw Paw Rentals has become over the past 36 years,” said the Tuma family. “It’s been a true family business from day one, and it means a great deal to us to pass it on to another local family who shares our values. We’re confident the Roskam family will take great care of our customers, our team, and the community.”

“The Tumas have built not just a business, but a reputation,” Roskam added. “That trust doesn’t happen overnight. It’s something we’re committed to honoring every day.”

Paw Paw Rentals will remain a family-run operation under the stewardship of the Roskam family, with the existing team staying in place to provide continuity for customers. The experienced staff will continue assisting customers in selecting the right equipment, providing instruction, and ensuring safe and successful use.

The company serves both homeowners and commercial contractors, offering access to professional-grade equipment without the cost and burden of ownership. For homeowners, it often functions as an extension of the garage—providing tools needed only occasionally. For contractors, it allows flexibility to scale equipment needs based on specific projects without maintaining a large fleet.

In addition to equipment rentals, Paw Paw Rentals supports more than 100 events each year, providing tents, tables, chairs, and other supplies for weddings, graduations, and community gatherings. The Roskam family plans to expand the event rental inventory to meet growing demand across Southwest Michigan.

Looking ahead, Roskam plans to invest in both technology and equipment to enhance the customer experience. A newly launched website provides visibility into available equipment and pricing, with online reservations and real-time availability expected soon. Traditional in-store and phone-based service will continue unchanged.

The company will also remain a dealer for Dixie Chopper, an American-made lawn mower brand produced in Indiana and known for its performance, durability, and comfort. Paw Paw Rentals will continue to offer both sales and service for Dixie Chopper equipment.

Future plans include expanding the rental fleet with additional aerial equipment, earth-moving machinery, and lawn and garden tools.

“Our goal is to preserve everything the Tuma family built and continue showing up for this community the way they have for the past 36 years,” Roskam said. “At the same time, we’re at a moment where small businesses have to evolve to meet changing customer expectations. We’re excited to thoughtfully invest in technology and new ways of operating that make it easier for people to get what they need—while staying true to the relationships and service that have always defined Paw Paw Rentals.”

About Paw Paw Rentals
Paw Paw Rentals is a full-service equipment and event rental company family-owned and operated in Southwest Michigan since 1989. The company provides equipment for homeowners and contractors, along with tents, tables, chairs, and event supplies for gatherings across the region.