107-year-old W.S. Bicksler Electric in Wadsworth set to close

WADSWORTH — Loyal customers and strong family bonds have made W.S. Bicksler Electric Inc. a downtown Wadsworth staple for 107 years. However, a third generation of family ownership will be the store's last, with 67-year-old Paul Bicksler announcing his retirement this past weekend. "It's just time for us to step away," he said Tuesday. "Over all these years there's been so many faithful, honest customers and they continually come back. We've made friends with some of them. Word of mouth is still the best advertising out there and I feel we've developed a good reputation." "That's sort of why I don't want to leave my name on the building," Bicksler added. "Maybe someone would come along, take over, and do a much better job than I have. But maybe they wouldn't. I just don't want to take that risk and throw away the reputation that's been built and this relationship with this community." WS Bicksler Electric Inc. has operated at 114 High St. since 1914, the year of Wadsworth's centennial celebration. For more than a century, Bicksler Electric has remained an integral part of the local economy and attracted customers spanning generations. In a Sunday news release, Bicksler said his retirement will be effective July 1. A closing sale will last throughout June with Bicksler saying doors will remain open until supply sells out, even if that is later than June 30. Doors will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Customers can shop until 4 p.m. Wednesdays and 3 p.m. Saturdays. Paul's grandfather, W.S. Bicksler Sr., opened the store as an electrical service store before moving into the home appliance market. Ownership eventually passed to Paul's father, Elden, and his two uncles, Wesley Jr. and Bruce, who presided over the business as a group. A shared administration model has also worked for Paul and his wife, Annie, as the pair have operated Bicksler Electric together since the early 1990s. "Annie and I just know how to work together," he said. "We don't have to tell each other what to do. I actually met my wife through the accountant who was handing things for the store. She was working for them. We don't argue. We've always just come in here, done our thing, and gotten things accomplished." A humble start working for his family after school laid the groundwork for a great deal of success, Paul said. "I was a freshman in high school and would just come here right after school got out," he said. "I think I officially became an employee the next year, where I actually started collecting a paycheck. It's been a quick 50 years since then, I can tell you that. Time can just go by so quickly when you're going somewhere everyday that you love." Numerous customers and friends have chimed in on Facebook to show their appreciation for the store and the Bicksler family. "We have been customers since we moved here in 1998," wrote Diane Grunau Ruffner. "Every appliance we have came from Bicksler's, including our freezer in the basement. Sad to see them go, but wish Paul a great retirement. Congratulations." "Welcome to retirement," Sandy McDermott wrote. "Everyone of our major appliances have come from your store. You will be missed." Customers pointing out that they shopped for appliances exclusively at Bicksler Electric was a consistent occurrence. "Congratulations, Paul and Annie," wrote Cathy Hall. "Your good fortune is definitely our loss. I have never bought an appliance anywhere except for Bicksler's. Your exceptional customer service is a rarity. Godspeed in your days ahead. Thank you for everything." Paul said he plans to remain in the area and stay active. However, a well-deserved rest will be top priority upon closing the doors at Bicksler Electric for the final time. "Yes, I'm just going to do nothing for a little while," he said. "That won't last forever, though. I enjoy golf and I'm into cars. I want to be able to take some drives during the nice weather. I enjoy working in my yard. I think a lot of people find that relaxing. We'll find ways to keep busy. I just know I'm taking six months off coming up here." Contact reporter Jonathan Delozier at (330)721-4050 or jdelozier@medina-gazette.com.