Satterfield inducted into international towing Hall of Fame

James Satterfield poses with his father, Wade Satterfield, who opened Wade's Body Shop in Sikeston in 1959. Submitted photo

SIKESTON - Jami Satterfield Francescon is the first to admit that father really does knows best.

Growing up she recalled she used to think it was terrible when her father, James Satterfield, insisted she spend time at the family business, Satterfield's Wrecking Service.

"All my friends were hanging out at the pool every summer and my dad was making me work - even during holiday breaks during college," she recalled from her home in Nashville. "But I learned so much and I didn't realize I was learning."

Francescon said she learned the importance of safe driving and was instilled with a good worth ethic. Also she acquired some basic skills such as how to change a tire, how to change oil and some accounting along the way as well.

"I got a pretty amazing upbringing and realize that now when I look back. I'm so glad he made me do that," she said.

Greg Copeland, who has since purchased the business from Satterfield, said James Satterfield was key in his life as well.

Copeland recalled the years he worked for Satterfield, saying his boss was tough but always took time to explain things to his young employee.

"I don't know that I could have asked for a better boss," he said. "He always seemed to make it a little tougher on me but I guess maybe it was because he saw something in me."

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