In June of 1982, Ernie and Claudene Balazs opened the doors at Rio Grande Pump Supply. Ernie had worked in the pump industry since the early 1960s when he went to work for Layne & Bowler Pump Co in Farwell, TX. In 1969, Layne & Bowler was sold to Aurora Pump and Ernie & Claudene moved to Panhandle, TX, whereas Ernie continued as an outside salesman for the company covering New Mexico and West Texas. After many years covering the Las Cruces area and making many friends here, Ernie and Claudene moved to Las Cruces in 1979 to start another adventure. Ernie went to work for Gardea Pump Service and Claudene went to work for Las Cruces Abstract and Title. In 1980, Ernie went to work for National Pump Co. and in 1982, he and Claudene decided to start their own business. Bringing Ernies years of experience in the pump industry and Claudenes business management skills, Rio Grande Pump was born. Their daughter Cheryl Fox and her husband Frank were the rest of the business for several years. Our business now includes 3 generations of family as active participants and many of you are getting to know the 4th generation when you are in. Our business has grown over the years, expanding into municipal and utility sales throughout southern New Mexico.