Category Archives: Meet Our Auctioneers

Chuck Ranney, MAA Hall of Fame Inductee 2026

Michigan Auctioneers Association Hall of Fame

Chuck Ranney, MAA Hall of Fame Inductee 2026

Industry Veteran Chuck Ranney Inducted into Michigan Auctioneers Association Hall of Fame

MT. PLEASANT, MI — On January 29, 2026, the Michigan Auctioneers Association (MAA) proudly inducted Chuck Ranney into its prestigious Hall of Fame. The ceremony took place during the MAA’s landmark 75th Anniversary Annual Conference held at the Comfort Inn & Suites and Conference Center in Mt. Pleasant. Induction into the Hall of Fame is the highest honor bestowed by the association, recognizing individuals who demonstrate exceptional integrity, professional skill, and long-term dedication to the auction industry.

Chuck Ranney’s journey in the auction world began at the age of 11, running clerk sheets for his father, Jim Smith. Although he spent his early adult years as a mechanic and service manager—skills that would later give him a unique edge in valuing heavy equipment—his roots eventually pulled him back to the family profession.

In 2004, Ranney joined Miedema Auctioneering. After four years of mastering the behind-the-scenes logistics of auction setup, he was famously “forced” onto the microphone when mentors Hib Kuiper and Doug Heuker dropped it at his feet during a live sale and walked away. Ranney rose to the occasion, proving to be a natural talent. Today, he is a cornerstone of the Miedema team, specializing in live auctions for farm, construction, and industrial equipment, as well as real estate.

“Chuck Ranney represents the very best of our profession—hard work, humility, mentorship, leadership, and integrity,” said Sid Miedema during the induction. “His journey reflects not only personal success, but a lifelong commitment to the auction industry and the people in it.”

Ranney’s contributions extend far beyond the auction block. He served as the MAA President in 2017 and remains a dedicated mentor and instructor for the association. In 2024, he further solidified his expertise by earning the Certified Michigan Auctioneer designation. A true community steward, he also donates his time to 10–15 charity and benefit auctions annually.

Ranney resides in Michigan with his wife of 19 years, Shannon, and their two sons, Dylan and Max. Whether he is managing high-profile liquidations across the country or camping with his family, Ranney remains grounded in the values of honesty and service that have defined his storied career.

 

 

 

 

 

Caleb DeKorne Named 2026 Michigan Auctioneers Association Champion

Caleb DeKorne Named 2026 Michigan Auctioneers Association Champion

MT. PLEASANT, Mich. — January 30, 2026 — Caleb DeKorne of Kent City, Michigan, was crowned the 2026 Michigan Auctioneer Champion during a competitive contest held January 30 at the Michigan Auctioneers Association’s 75th Anniversary Conference in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan. Grant Phipps of Plain City, Ohio, earned First Runner-Up honors, while Ben Herrera of Liberty, Indiana, was named Second Runner-Up.

DeKorne’s victory reflects years of dedication to the auction profession. He first attended an auction with his older brother, Joe, at the age of 15, and was immediately captivated by the rhythm of the auction chant. After weeks of practicing on his own, he began attending as many auctions as possible, eventually working for Art Smith Auctioneers, the company where his passion for auctioneering was born.

In June 2016, DeKorne attended the World Wide College of Auctioneering in Mason City, Iowa, a transformative nine-day program that honed his skills and cemented his career path. After a brief hiatus to support his family’s beekeeping business, he returned to auctions in 2022, working extensively for Art and Noah Smith and pursuing a career as a contract auctioneer.

Today, DeKorne conducts over 100 auctions annually across Michigan, including farm, estate, and benefit auctions, as well as two weekly livestock sales. He attributes his success to mentors, colleagues, and family members who provided guidance, constructive feedback, and support along the way, including Art and Noah Smith, the late Kelly Merryman, and Ed Leist.

“Caleb’s skill, professionalism, and dedication to his craft make him a true champion in every sense,” said an MAA representative. “His respect for clients, bidders, and the auction process exemplifies the values of the Michigan Auctioneers Association.”

DeKorne is based in Kent City, Michigan, and serves clients throughout the state.

 

Aaron Peters Named 2026 Michigan Auctioneers Association Ringman Champion

Aaron Peters Named 2026 Michigan Auctioneers Association Ringman Champion

MT. PLEASANT, Mich. — January 30, 2026 — Aaron Peters of Elida, Ohio, was crowned the 2026 Michigan Ringman Champion following a competitive contest held January 30 during the Michigan Auctioneers Association’s 75th Anniversary Conference in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan. Owen Leist of Boyne City, Michigan, earned First Runner-Up honors, while Tay Tobey of Greenville, Michigan, was named Second Runner-Up.

Peters’ championship win marks a significant milestone in a career built on persistence, passion, and a deep respect for the auction profession. Growing up attending auctions alongside his father and grandfather, Peters developed an early appreciation for the fast-paced energy of the auction ring and the relationships formed through the auction process. Those early experiences, combined with his strong agricultural background as an FFA State Degree recipient, laid the foundation for a lifelong calling.

“This win is especially meaningful,” Peters said, “because it represents years of learning, refining my skills, and staying committed to doing the job the right way.”

Prior to claiming the Michigan Ringman Championship, Peters earned recognition as a two-time Ohio State Bid Calling Finalist (2022, 2023), a Michigan Auctioneer Championship Finalist (2024), and 2nd Runner-Up in the Michigan Ringman Championship in 2025. His steady progression through the ranks underscores the dedication that ultimately led to his championship performance in 2026.

Specializing in real estate, estate sales, charity events, firearms, heavy equipment, agricultural auctions, business liquidations, and consignment auctions, Peters is known for his versatility, professionalism, and calm presence in the ring. Beyond technical skill, colleagues and clients alike recognize him for a people-first approach that helps individuals and families navigate major life transitions with confidence.

Auctioneering is a true family affair for Peters. His wife and son work alongside him, sharing the same commitment to service and integrity. Outside the auction world, the Peters family enjoys farming, hunting, and spending time together—values that mirror the work ethic and community focus he brings to every auction.

“Aaron understands that behind every bid is a person and a story,” said an MAA representative. “That perspective, combined with championship-level skill, is what makes him an outstanding Ringman and ambassador for the profession.”

Aaron Peters is based in Elida, Ohio, and serves clients throughout Ohio, Michigan, and surrounding regions.