GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) – Tomorrow will be a mix of smiles and somber feelings as a Gainesville business that’s been around since 1952 closes.
Wally Grant was hired at L&S Auto Trim as a teenager to sweep the floors. He worked his way up and now, he’s the owner.
Grant said “I started in high school, I learned the craft. The original family let me buy into the business. And then from there I bought them out of the business, and I’ve run it for the last 25-years on my own.”
He says he enjoyed learning the art of car mechanics, and that made climbing the ladder a pleasant experience.
Reflecting on his time in the industry, he said “That’s really what I love. So, I really never did come to work. I came and played with cars all day for 50 years.”
But Grant said he couldn’t have done it alone. He credits the helping hands of his employees that he’s had on his team for helping him keep the engine running.
He said “I have got the best crew. We’ve assembled over 30 years, these guys have been with me thick and thin. I can’t say enough good things about the guys I work with.”
When asked how he’ll spend his time in retirement, Grant said he’s looking forward to days on the beach with his family.
With a smile on his face, he said “I love my customers and I love my job, but I’m looking forward to not going to work anymore.”
L&S Auto Trim will close on Friday, Nov. 21.
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