In 1993, the NFL Football legend, Walter Payton joined with Mi-Jack Products to open Walter Payton Power Equipment, a construction equipment business in the northwestern suburbs of Chicago. When he started Walter Payton Power Equipment, Walter wanted to bring what he had learned in life to the business world, endurance, work ethic, being prepared and above all performance. In the late 90's Walter Payton was diagnosed with a rare liver disease, which would quickly end his life. During his final months, Walter worked to finish is autobiography “Never Die Easy”. When the book was started it was about his playing philosophy (not running out of bounds to avoid being tackled). In the end, it was about his life, both on and off of the field. Walter Payton Power Equipment was a successful and thriving enterprise when it’s assets were sold just prior to his death in 1999.

In 2003 Walter’s widow, Connie Payton along with ex-team mate, Matt Suhey, re-open Walter Payton Power Equipment. “Our goal is to emulate my late husband’s dedication and work ethic in our business activities,” commented Connie Payton, co-owner of WPPE.

“Over the years that I knew Walter Payton, I came to admire first hand, the resolve that he had for success. It is that determination for success that we bring to the customers of WPPE,” said Matt Suhey, NFL Running Back Chicago Bears '80-'89, Businessman and Co-Owner of WPPE.

“When I was approached to re-join Connie Payton in Walter Payton Power Equipment we knew that Walter's qualities are something to strive for and his inspiration would bring a strong work ethic and winning attitude to the business,” said Robert Johnson, General Manager of Walter Payton Power Equipment.