In 1862 Steketee and John H. Doornich formed a dry goods operation that would become one of West Michigan's oldest retailers. The two ran the store for 10 years before a fire devastated the business. Following the fire, Doornich sold out to Steketee, who brought his family on board to help run and rebuild the operation.
In 1862 Steketee and John H. Doornich founded a retail business that would become one of West Michigan's most enduring companies. The two partners managed the store for 10 years before a fire ravaged the operation. Following the disaster, Doornich sold his share to Steketee, who brought his family into the company to help restore and revitalize it.