KOVAL'S APPLIANCES

This is the story of Ben Koval and Koval Appliances at 4317-31 Excelsior Blvd. In December 1945, Ben was released from Walter Reed Hospital in Washington, DC, where he recovered from injuries received during the War. In 1946, Ben and his wife Libby (born June 12, 1923) started an appliance business on Plymouth Avenue in North Minneapolis.

In August 1966, riots broke out in North Minneapolis. Rioters broke into their rented store and stole everything. The Kovals hurriedly moved the store to 3887 Wooddale (vintage unknown), along the east side of Highway 100. In 1968, in need of more space, the Kovals moved to 4317-31 Excelsior Blvd.

Libby passed away on December 23, 1991. Her sister Harriet and Koval son Jeffrey helped run the business with Ben. Ben Koval died on Feb. 7, 2002, but his family carries on the tradition.

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This information comes from a variety of sources: newspapers, books, yearbooks, phone directories, interviews, etc. Given the varied sources, we cannot guarantee that all of this information is correct, and welcome any additions and corrections. Please contact us with your contributions and comments.