Mankato Dairy Queen West Transitions to New Ownership After 35 Years of Galli Family Leadership

After more than three decades of serving up treats, memories and community connections, the Galli family is officially passing the torch at the iconic Dairy Queen West in Mankato. Current owner JoRae Galli Storm has announced the sale of the business to husband-and-wife team Chris Kunst and Chantal Heetland.

Located on Mankato’s west side, Dairy Queen West has been a staple of the community since opening in 1973 under original owner Florence Standfest. Joe Galli—affectionately known throughout the community as “DQ Joe”—purchased the location in 1990 from Bud and Lynn Getta, beginning a 35-year chapter of family ownership rooted in customer loyalty, employee relationships and community connection.

“My dad always said, ‘we serve up fun and create memories for many,” said JoRae Galli Storm. “That’s exactly what this place has been about for our family for the past 35 years.”

JoRae purchased the business from her father in 2006 after leaving a successful corporate career in human resources and labor contract negotiation to pursue entrepreneurship full time. Her father officially retired in 2006 but stayed on part-time for an additional two years. He passed away on Nov. 1, 2020, following a long battle with COPD.

Over the years, Dairy Queen West became known for more than just ice cream. In the 1990s, the location gained regional attention for its many flavors of handmade Dilly Bars—a tradition still partially carried on today with in-house Dilly and Buster Bars. The restaurant also became known for its welcoming culture, strong employee retention and deep ties to the Mankato community.

“For 35-plus years, we built a stable, resilient business thanks to this wonderful, loyal community,” said Storm. “Our reputation is our strongest asset.”

The Galli family employed 129 team members over the years and never once ran a help-wanted advertisement. Recruitment came almost entirely through relationships, referrals and community connections.

“Key to the DQ West Galli success? One hundred percent loyalty—both customers and top-notch employees,” Storm added. “Without either, we would not be here today.”

Many former employees went on to successful careers after developing customer service and networking skills while working at Dairy Queen West. The location also became a familiar stop for Minnesota Vikings players, coaches, sports reporters, dignitaries and even movie and music stars passing through southern Minnesota.

Finding the right buyer, Storm said, was essential.

“After my 20 years, it was time for me to start another chapter, and finding the right buyer was crucial,” she said. “We did that with Chris Kunst and Chantal Heetland. They both possess backgrounds that align well with our business. From human resources and real estate to franchise operations and ownership, they cover the bases, and they are beyond excited for this opportunity.”

Storm said the transition felt especially meaningful because her father had long believed Kunst would someday be the right fit to carry the business forward.

“My dad always told me he thought Chris would be the perfect person to take this store over,” she said. “From one casual conversation to this announcement, it just felt meant to be.”

Kunst and Heetland are current partners in Jersey Mike’s and say they are committed to maintaining the culture, team and customer experience that generations of Mankato residents have come to love.

“We were drawn to this Dairy Queen because of the incredible reputation, strong culture and deep connection to the community that has been built over the years,” said Heetland. “We are beyond excited for the opportunity to continue that legacy, support the amazing team already in place, and remain actively involved in serving and giving back to the community.”

Customers can expect continuity throughout the transition, including many familiar staff faces and the same commitment to customer service and community involvement.

As for what’s next, Storm joked that her immediate plans include “a looooooong break.”

While not fully retiring, she looks forward to more flexibility to spend time with family and friends, travel, support her family’s business Shades of Grey Tint, and continue pursuing her passion for health and wellness. Several family milestones—including an upcoming wedding involving her stepson in Denver—also helped shape the timing of the transition.

“Stepping back right now seems like the perfect time while still being proud of what my family created,” said Storm.

Storm’s final shift at Dairy Queen West will be Thursday, May 21.