About
For the last 46 years, Montvale Tire Co has been performing quality auto repairs and stocking a competitively priced selection of tires. Since our humble beginnings, we have grown to acquire a loyal base of returning customers. We have done this through quality workmanship and friendly service. We look forward to building equally rewarding relationships with new customers. We are big enough to serve, small enough to care.
Founder and president Tony Koles started a service station in 1968 and started in the tire business, incorporating Montvale Tire Co, in 1969. The business expanded in 1973 with a move to the current Woburn location and the addition of the Melrose location.
Tony was born in Melrose in 1943. After graduating high school, he attended the Wentworth Institute then joined the Army National Guard. He began as a professional musician, but the travel caused too many missed Guard meetings. Tony returned to Melrose and, after trying two sales jobs, decided to take more control of his own destiny by starting his gas and repair business.
Soon after opening his business, Tony was invited to join the Kiwanis Club where he quickly learned the value of giving back to the community. He served as Kiwanis Club president in 1977 and 1978 and on several other boards and committees. Tony’s love for golf led to his work on the Melrose-Wakefield Hospital Golf Committee and the creating of two other benefit golf tournaments.
Tony is a member of the New England Tire Dealers Hall of Fame. He served as the New England Tire Dealers Association president 1993-94 and still serves on the board.