A well-known businessman and philanthropist whose name adorns the local YMCA has sold his iconic car dealership that he established along State Road 200 in Ocala over 46 years ago.
Frank DeLuca officially retired from DeLuca Toyota this month. The businessman’s iconic dealership at 1719 SW College Road has changed hands and has since been rebranded to Gettel Toyota.
According to his website, DeLuca served as president and owner of the local Toyota dealership beginning in 1978. Before that, he worked for over a decade and a half in the industry. The facility grew several times over the years until it was expanded to its currently size nearly a decade ago.
Over the past 45 years, in addition to dramatically growing his business, DeLuca has consistently given back to his community.
In 2016, DeLuca committed $1,000,000 as the lead donor to transform the Marion County YMCA. The facility was renamed to the Frank DeLuca YMCA Family Center in his honor after its completion.
DeLuca has also sponsored 15 Habitat for Humanity homes in the area, donating over $650,000 to families and children. Additionally, his company has donated several vehicles over the years to the Boys and Girls Club of Marion County.
In 2021, DeLuca donated another $1 million to lead the expansion of the YMCA with the construction of the Frank DeLuca Sportsplex. Every year, DeLuca also donates $10,000 to support YMCA scholarships, according to his website.
In total, DeLuca has given over $14 million to support the Ocala community since 1978.
“It has been a pleasure and privilege to support the Marion County Community for 45 years. Giving back to a community that has given me so much is just the right thing to do. I could not do this without the loyalty of my customers and employees,” reads a statement from DeLuca’s website.
On Tuesday, Gettel Toyota made changes to the company’s social media channels and issued a statement about the transition.
“Gettel Toyota of Ocala is proud to carry on a 46-year legacy of exceptional service, formerly known as DeLuca Toyota. While the name has changed, our commitment to great care, value, and customer satisfaction remains the same. We’re excited to serve our community with quality vehicles and expert service you can trust,” reads a statement from the company.
The company also responded to rumors of layoffs at the facility in a comment posted on its Facebook page.
“We’re very excited to serve the Ocala community and surrounding areas, continuing the tradition of excellence you’ve come to know and trust. As part of the transition, we are making every effort to retain as many team members as possible and ensure a smooth experience for both employees and customers,” reads the comment.
According to a deed filed with the Marion County Clerk of Courts, the three parcels that comprise the dealership were sold for $28,300,000. It is unclear if there were additional assets or monies exchanged in the sale, as the deed simply accounts for the property.