When Gary Brice, the owner of Rynfield Hardware who died a few weeks ago, opened his shop in Miles Sharp Street, he gave Benoni something from a bygone era.
READ: Benoni says goodbye to Rynfield Hardware owner
It’s something that the younger generation may never have experienced in their lifetime: a store run by a man who was always in attendance.
Not only was Gary always in the shop, he was also always ready to provide advice personally on all home improvement or building matters – even if you did not buy from his shop at the time.
In many ways, Gary operated a suburban DIY advisory service to home-owners – even artisans – and if that advice brought a sale, that was almost coincidental.
His devotion to customers allowed no time for holidays and only recently did Gary close shop on Sundays.
He must have wasted hundreds of cigarettes because he immediately stubbed them out on the pavement when a customer arrived and specifically needed his advice.
Gary’s knowledge of the hardware business was astounding: from the choice of the tiniest screw to massive roofing material.
And here was a man who would never sell you anything without first making sure you were going to use it correctly.
Thousands of people started flocking to the ‘dying’ corner of Miles Sharp Street after Rynfield Hardware started business there some years ago. In many ways, the modern new businesses that now operate around the hardware store should thank Gary for putting that part of town on the map.
Fortunately, over the years Gary imparted most of his knowledge to his wife, Bev, and daughter, Claire, as well as the other – always carefully selected – young men who are now behind the shop counter. Indeed he did it so well that most of his experience and expertise will live on as a legacy to customers.
I always told my wife I was going to seek help from “The Professor” when faced with a DIY problem.
Rest in peace, Professor, you were our shopkeeper supreme.
How Benoni will miss you.
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