CRIDERSVILLE — Randall Oens wanted something different to separate his DJ business from others. So, a little over a year ago, he went out and purchased a 1998 Cadillac hearse.
“I figured it not only would be good to haul my equipment, but it also would draw people’s attention … an advertisement on four wheels,” the Cridersville man said.
It’s too early to say whether the promotion is working as hoped or if it’s a dead issue. However, it is safe to say the vehicle draws a lot of attention. Oens recently drove it to the Happy Daz Cruise Inn on South Cable Road in Lima. He heard the same thing over and over.
“All kinds of people told me they’ve never seen a hearse at a car show,” he said.
He’s having fun with the vehicle.
“I drove it in the Halloween parades in Wapakoneta and Cridersville,” he said. “People seemed to enjoy it. And you wouldn’t believe the looks I get when I pull up to a stop sign.”
He says it is a comfortable ride with its 400, V-8 engine, air shocks and all-leather interior. Parking can be a challenge though.
“It takes two parking spots,” he said.
There’s only one thing he wishes he could change with the vehicle.
“You have to fill it up with premium gas,” Oens said. “It cost me $200 the other day to fill it up.”