(Fairmont) After 42 years in business, Richard and Betty Wiederhoeft are retiring from Richard’s Auto Repair and Towing in Fairmont. The couple, both Martin County natives, started the business in 1984 after Richard left his job at Poppe’s. The business has operated at several locations over the years, including its current location on East Blue Earth Avenue. Just a year after opening, the business was forced to start over after a fire destroyed its North State Street location in December of 1985. The Wiederhoefts were able to temporarily operate out of DeBoer Motors before purchasing Zenk’s Repair on Park Street in 1986. Over the years, Richard’s grew from one employee to eight and expanded its services to include auto repair, oil changes, tire sales and service, and towing. The Wiederhoefts say honesty has been the foundation of the business, and they credit loyal employees, customers and vendors for helping them succeed. A new owner is expected to take over by the first week of October. The business will remain an auto repair and towing operation, and all current employees are expected to stay.
