History
History
Founder, Marvin L. "Buzz" Oates epitomizes entrepreneurial spirit. From mowing lawns and collecting bottles as a young boy in the 1930's, to saving $2,000 earned in the military to start his own business, Buzz has always had the keen ability to recognize an opportunity - and to turn opportunity into success. His hard work, integrity and business acumen have culminated into what is now known as The Buzz Oates Group of Companies.
As a developer and business owner, Mr. Oates has been a major factor in the growth and development of the Greater Sacramento region. Mr. Oates has been in the real estate development business for over 50 years and has developed more than 50 million square feet of industrial, office and retail space. In addition to being the founder of The Buzz Oates Group of Companies, Mr. Oates was the founding Director of American River Bank, serving in such capacity until 1990. He was also the driving force behind the creation of Five Star Bank, for which he is currently a Director. Mr. Oates is widely known for his political and civic involvement.
July
25, 1923
Marvin L. "Buzz" Oates was born in Sacramento, California.
January 1943
Buzz was called into service with the U.S. Air Force during WWII, served as a bombardier in 30 missions and became a war hero.
1946
Buzz took $2,000 saved in the military and opened A&A Key Shop which provided locksmith services.
1951
A&A Key Shop grew into A&A Key and Builders Supply, a retail establishment selling everything from nails to televisions.
1960's
A&A Key Builders Supply evolved into Buzz Oates Enterprises, marking a move from retail to construction and commercial development, property management, and finance/capital markets.
2000
Buzz Oates Enterprises became The Buzz Oates Group of Companies — a vertically integrated company offering a single point of contact for a full range of commercial real estate development services.
