We're not ones to usually ask for help, but today, we have no choice. The LeDonne family needs your support to save Sussex Ace Hardware.

For over 30 years, Sussex Ace Hardware has been more than just a store—it has been a pillar of our community, providing not only exceptional service but also unwavering dedication to the people of Sussex, Wisconsin. Now, we’re facing the heartbreaking reality that we may lose it.

ABOUT SUSSEX ACE HARDWARE

Sussex Ace Hardware has been serving our community since 1993—not just with quality products, but with a personal touch that you won’t find in big-box stores. This all began with Anthony LeDonne, a man who grew up in his family's Ace Hardware in Chicago.

Even when life threw him challenges—losing everything due to family issues after his father’s passing—Anthony and Joanie refused to give up. They packed up, moved two hours away, and built Sussex Ace Hardware from the ground up with nothing but perseverance, hard work, and a deep love for helping others.

Anthony has always been known as the go-to “Helpful Hardware Man.” Even back in high school at the Chicago store, the saying was always: “Ask Anthony!” That same passion has fueled our store for over 30 years. Whether it's finding the right tools, offering expert advice, or simply sharing a friendly conversation, Anthony has always been there for his customers. And today, that same dedication continues through his son, Anthony Jr., who carries on the family’s legacy.

But Sussex Ace Hardware is more than just a store—it’s a part of the community. The relationships we’ve built here go beyond business.

This store isn’t just our livelihood—it’s our life. And in so many ways, it belongs to the community just as much as it belongs to us.

WHY WE NEED YOUR HELP

After over three decades in business, we are in urgent need of our community’s support to keep Sussex Ace Hardware in our family.

In September 2020, we lost our son Mikey to an accidental opioid overdose at just 36 years old. What many people don’t know is that Mikey had been battling addiction for over five years—a battle that deeply affected both our family and our business.

In the depths of his disease, Mikey, our kind-hearted and loving son, made choices we know he never would have under different circumstances. In his desperation, he took money not just from our family, but from the business itself. Some of it we were able to see, but much of it we only discovered after his passing.

For the last four years, we have fought tirelessly to recover, but the financial strain has left us at a breaking point. Without help, we will be forced to sell Sussex Ace Hardware—something we never imagined would happen.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

We are asking for your support to help us save the business that has served our community for over 30 years. Any contribution, no matter how small, brings us one step closer to keeping Sussex Ace Hardware in the family and continuing to serve Sussex for generations to come. Please consider donating today. Your kindness means everything to us.

WHY PEOPLE LOVE US

Just what a local hardware store should be. Friendly, helpful staff. Good variety of products and rental items, and great selection of those hard-to-find hardware bits the big boxes don't carry. Best thing is the expertise the staff has. They hear what you're trying to do and help find ways to get it done. Great place!

~ Steve Bettwy

Was a regular customer of this great selection hardware store staffed by super helpful folks. We wish they operated a store here in Colorado. Shop with confidence that they will take care of you.

~ Eugene Nickel

Seriously, the most kind and helpful staff you can imagine. I'll go out of my way to visit this Ace Hardware again in Sussex, even though 2 other locations are closer to me.

~ Emily Romeo

Our local Ace hardware is a great resource for not only personal hardware needs but as a manufacturer in the area we utilize their expertise and ability to purchase large quantities of necessary items. The staff is extremely knowledgeable.

~ Mike McCurley

Always willing to help...great "small town feel" makes it warm and welcoming. Anthony, the Owner, is always willing to go above and beyond for any problem be it big or small.

~ Anonymous

WHERE YOUR DONATIONS WILL GO

- Paying off outstanding debts incurred from financial loss

- Keeping Sussex Ace Hardware open and operational

- Supporting our dedicated staff who have stood by us

- Ensuring that our family business can continue serving the Sussex community for years to come

WAYS TO SUPPORT US

(NOT JUST DONATIONS!)

We know and understand that not everyone has the ability to donate financially, but we would appreciate your suppport in any of the following ways as well:

Share our story. Post our fundraiser on social media and tell your friends and family.

Shop with us. Every purchase at Sussex Ace Hardware makes a difference.

Offer resources. If you know of grants or financial resources that could help, please reach out to [email protected]

Every dollar, every share, and every kind word helps. This store has been a home to us for over 30 years, and with your support, we can continue serving Sussex for generations to come. Please consider donating today—your generosity means the world to our family.