Pro-Stump Tree Service Inc. is celebrating nearly four decades of continuous family ownership in Central New Jersey, a milestone that underscores the enduring value of personalized service in the tree care industry. Founded in 1987 by Glenn Donnelly, a retired New Jersey State Trooper, the company has grown from a single pickup truck and chainsaw to a full-scale operation with two grapple saw cranes, a 40-ton crane, bucket trucks, and three stump grinders, completing over 5,000 jobs across Monmouth, Ocean, Burlington, and Mercer counties. Today, Glenn's son, Cody Donnelly, serves as co-owner, sharing day-to-day operations and ensuring the company's founding principles remain intact.
Glenn Donnelly credits his State Police background for the company's ethos: "You show up when you say you will, and you never cut corners. Almost forty years later, most of our work still comes from a neighbor telling a neighbor." This word-of-mouth reputation has been built on reliability and a commitment to safety, which is evident in the company's credentials, including NJ Licensed Tree Expert #200988, NJ Licensed Tree Care Operator #767797, and NJ Home Improvement Contractor #13VH07323700. Pro-Stump also employs an ISA Certified Arborist and carries $3 million in general liability insurance, providing clients with peace of mind.
The company's expertise extends beyond routine tree care to high-stakes situations. From storm response at 2 a.m. to crane-assisted removals over houses and power lines, Pro-Stump has handled a wide range of challenges. In 2011, Glenn Donnelly personally climbed a tree in Central New Jersey to safely bring down a black bear after other responders declined the call, demonstrating the company's commitment to community service and problem-solving.
As the company looks to the future, Cody Donnelly emphasizes continuity: "Nothing about how we work is changing. The name on the truck is the same name on our mailbox. That is the standard we are held to." This dedication to family values and customer satisfaction has allowed Pro-Stump to serve 136 municipalities across Central New Jersey, offering free estimates and 24-hour emergency service.
The significance of this milestone extends beyond the company itself. In an industry often dominated by large, impersonal corporations, Pro-Stump's longevity highlights the importance of local, family-owned businesses that prioritize relationships over volume. For homeowners and businesses in Central New Jersey, the company's continued operation means access to experienced professionals who are deeply invested in their community. As Pro-Stump enters its fifth decade, its story serves as a testament to the power of hard work, integrity, and the simple principle of treating customers like neighbors.
