Phil and Denise built The Place from the kind of dream that starts at the kitchen table.

Originally from Edgerton, Minnesota, they moved to Luverne in 1998 with hopes of building a life rooted in faith, family, and community. Phil spent the next chapter doing what he does best: working hard and serving others. He owned and operated G&S Auto for 25 years, pouring time, dedication, and heart into the business until 2023.

Together, Phil and Denise raised three children, Jess, Matt, and Brent, and now they get to watch life unfold through the joy and energy of their four grandchildren. Their family has lived through changing seasons, busy holidays, celebrations, and the everyday moments that matter most. Along the way, Phil and Denise found themselves wishing for something simple but meaningful: a space where gathering didn’t feel cramped, where hosting felt easy, and where family and friends could be together without stress.

That dream became a calling.

When the opportunity came to purchase the building from Okie Honken, Phil and Denise stepped out in faith and began what would become one of their biggest adventures yet. What is now The Place has been shaped through blood, sweat, and tears, and through countless hours of remodeling, restoring, and reimagining. Every detail has been thoughtfully chosen to create a space that feels welcoming, beautiful, and full of peace. A true oasis by the lake.

Denise’s heart for serving others has always been at the center of this journey. After dedicating 30 years to the Minnesota Veterans Home, Denise retired in 2025. This new season of life has given her the chance to slow down and soak in what matters most: family time, meaningful moments, and dreaming up new ideas for The Place. From adding thoughtful details indoors to bringing life and color outside, Denise’s creativity and care can be felt in every corner.  

Phil’s heart for serving others has always been woven into the way he lives and loves his family. After years of hard work, he entered a new season of life by selling G&S Auto and stepping away from tow truck driving, creating space for a slower pace and the things that matter most. Even so, Phil is rarely sitting still. Between working part-time, mowing, gardening, and tackling projects around The Place, he’s always up to something. He brings a sense of humor that lights up a room, and in his own steady, practical way, he helps bring Denise’s vision to life with care and dedication. Above all, Phil loves spending time with his kids and family, and his faith shines through in the way he leads, serves, and shows up for the people around him.

If you stop by, you’ll often find Phil and Denise doing what they love most: gardening, decorating for the seasons, setting up for celebrations, and crafting new ideas with their own hands. This isn’t just a venue to them. It’s a labor of love. A gift they feel called to share.

The Place exists for one reason: to give people room to gather, host, and have fun in a space that feels special. It’s where memories are made, traditions are built, and God’s goodness can be felt in the joy of being together.

Welcome to The Place. We’re so glad you’re here.