For the Tomahawk Leader
TOMAHAWK – After nearly five decades, Gene Calhoun has turned over the keys.
Calhoun’s Auto Repair, 1612 N. 4th St., Tomahawk, recently transitioned into a Schierl Tire and Service Center location, one of seven in Wisconsin.
“It’s time for me to move on and pass the torch,” Calhoun said. “I’ve been here for 49 years. It’s bittersweet.”
Schierl Tire and Service Center said it is happy to welcome Calhoun’s Auto Repair to the Team Schierl Companies family.
“We admire the reputation and service Calhoun’s has brought to the Tomahawk community and look forward to carrying on that legacy,” said Bill Schierl. “Family owned, community focused – Schierl Tire and Service Center has been committed to providing expert and efficient auto and tire service for over 60 years. We cover seven locations throughout central and northern Wisconsin, offering the most comprehensive auto repair and tire service in the region.”
Calhoun said he will continue to operate his towing business and assured customers they will see the same friendly faces they’ve become accustomed to at the newest Schierl Tire and Service Center.
“Everybody’s going to be here except me,” he stated. “I want to thank all the employees that I have had over the years that have made it possible to get to this point. My son, Bob, will be here with the same employees that I’ve had here for many years.”
Even as a child, Gene Calhoun had an interest in cars and developed that interest into a lifelong career.
“As a kid, I needed to work, I figured,” he said. “I liked cars and automotive; I went to tech school and ended up working at a shop. When I got done with tech school, I spent some time with my brother at Tomahawk Sports Center, seven years. The opportunity came for me to buy out my other brother. He started this place, I believe in 1972. He was here for two years when I bought him out and continued on.”
Calhoun has enjoyed the ride.
“It’ been a breeze,” he stated. “Life has been good.”
Team Schierl Companies (TSC) was established in 1956 by Butch (John) Schierl in the home heating oil business.
TSC is currently owned and operated by John’s three sons, Tim, Fritz and Bill Schierl. TSC operates over 60 retail locations in Wisconsin and the upper peninsula of Michigan, focusing primarily in-service industries.
In “Building Tomorrow Together,” Team Schierl Companies employs over 600 associates between The Store, Subway, Hartje and Schierl Tire and Service Centers, Cousins Subs and Team Administration.
For more information, visit www.TeamSchierl.com or call Kathy Ostrowski at 715-345-5060.
Bill Schierl and Gene Calhoun. Photos courtesy of Schierl Tire