Three Generations of SEMCO Leadership: John Sutphin IV (left), his son Johnny Sutphin V (center), and John Sutphin Jr. (right) represent the fourth and fifth generations of the SEMCO family business during the Myrtle Beach Water Well Show in South Carolina.

SEMCO

Indy Picks

Built to Last: The Multi-Generational Story of SEMCO Pump Hoist

By Raina Lucero

August 6, 2025

For over seven decades, SEMCO Pump Hoist has stood as a proud example of family legacy, entrepreneurial spirit, and community impact in Lamar, Colorado. The company’s roots trace back to 1948, when John Sutphin Sr. opened Sutphin’s Electric Motor Works on North Fifth Street in Lamar. This modest motor shop was the start of a business that would expand and evolve through generations.

John Sr., alongside his wife Floris and their sons Bob and John Jr., diligently grew the business. The sons, from as young as nine and ten years old, became integral parts of the operation, embodying a true family-run business from its earliest days. The family relocated from California to Colorado, establishing the foundation of SEMCO’s enduring legacy.

In the late 1960s, after time away in Wyoming, John Jr. returned to Lamar to continue the family business, eventually purchasing it from his parents and moving operations to Main Street in the early 1970s. Under his leadership, SEMCO transitioned into the robust pump hoist company known today, expanding its reach far beyond Colorado. SEMCO Pump Hoist now serves customers across the U.S., Canada, and various international markets including Africa, Australia, South America, and Central America.

A hallmark of SEMCO’s enduring success has been their commitment to simplicity, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. Customers routinely testify to the reliability of SEMCO equipment, with original pump hoists from 1969 still operational, reflecting the company’s commitment to quality craftsmanship and durability.

The SEMCO legacy continues today with the involvement of John Sutphin IV and John Paul V, marking the fourth and fifth generations of family leadership. John IV, who supervises daily operations, emphasizes modernization while respecting the company’s foundational values. His father, John Jr., maintains an active role, sharing his invaluable knowledge and experience. John IV has introduced significant innovations, including newer, larger pump hoist models to meet contemporary industry demands.

Most recently, SEMCO participated in the Myrtle Beach Water Well Show in South Carolina, showcasing their newest SEMCO pump hoist models built in Lamar, Colorado. Attending the show were John Sutphin Jr., his grandson John Sutphin IV, and great son Johnny Sutphin V — three generations of SEMCO leadership standing side-by-side. Also present at the event were great granddaughters Blakelynn and Anniston Sutphin, representing the potential sixth generation of this proud family business.

Monica Sutphin, daughter of John Jr., shared her pride in seeing the generations continue forward. “We travel to shows like this all over the United States to market and sell our rigs, which we ship worldwide. I’ve worked alongside my father for 30 years, and my nephew John IV has been here for 13.”

SEMCO Pump Hoist remains a cornerstone of Lamar’s industrial landscape, reflecting the Sutphin family’s unwavering dedication and entrepreneurial vision—a legacy set to continue for generations to come.

Indy Kids in Business: Harry Lynch Builds a Business Caring for Pets and Homes

July 30, 2026

At just 15 years old, Harry Lynch has already spent three years building a dependable local business—and a savings account for his first car.

Indy Kids in Business: Rouse Kids Serve Up Lemonade, Iced Tea, and a Lesson in Hard Work

June 30, 2026

On hot summer days in southeastern Colorado, sometimes the best business idea is also the simplest one, a cold drink, a good location, and a group of kids willing to put in the work.

Indy Kids in Business: Eads Teen Launches Buller Carpentry

June 24, 2026

The Kiowa County Independent is proud to introduce a new feature series, Indy Kids in Business, highlighting young entrepreneurs who are making a difference in our rural communities. From livestock ventures and handmade products to service-based businesses and startups, this series will showcase the ambition, creativity, and hard work of youth across Southeast Colorado.

Indy Picks: The Maine Homestead Brings New Life, and Opportunity, to Eads

April 07, 2026

In a town where community matters and every home tells a story, a new kind of opportunity has quietly opened its doors in Eads.

Indy Picks: Ordway Building Supply Celebrates 50 Years with Two-Day Customer Appreciation Event

September 26, 2025

For half a century, Ordway Building Supply has been a cornerstone of southeastern Colorado, offering quality products, expert kitchen design, and the kind of personal service that only a family-owned business can provide. This October, owner Quentin Reeves and the whole OBS staff invites the community and longtime customers to celebrate their 50th anniversary with a special two-day Customer Appreciation Event.