Rick's Repair - The Family Legacy Continues

CRESCO – In a heartfelt transition that keeps the spirit of family business alive, former owners Rick and Jo Ann Wangan of Rick’s Repair have officially sold their auto repair shop to Tony and Jessica Wall. This change marks a new chapter for the iconic business in Cresco, while maintaining strong ties to the community and family legacy.

   Rick and Jo Ann Wangan, well-known in the Cresco area for their dedication to quality service and reliable repairs, are looking forward to retirement. However, Rick isn’t quite ready to say goodbye to the auto repair world just yet. He plans to continue working on classic and collector cars from his home, allowing him to indulge his passion while enjoying a much-needed break.

   Throughout the transition, Rick and Jo Ann have been actively involved, ensuring that both Tony and Jessica feel comfortable and are prepared to take over the business and serve the loyal customer base that has depended on them for years. Rick stresses the most important lesson he hopes to pass down: “Be honest and treat everybody good.” This philosophy has guided their work and will continue to shape the values of Rick’s Repair under the Wall family’s ownership.

   For Tony and Jessica, this venture is particularly meaningful; Jessica is Jo Ann's niece, and family has been integral to the business throughout its history. The shop has always been a “home away from home” for family members, and the Walls are committed to maintaining that welcoming atmosphere for their own family and friends.

    “We wanted to buy the repair shop because we know it’s a niche in the community that we wanted to fill,” Tony said, reflecting on their motivations for taking over the beloved local institution. 

   In a twist of serendipity, Diane Bermseth, Rick’s first customer, will also be Tony’s first customer after the official ownership transfer on November 11, 2025. Jessica remarked, “It’s destiny,” emphasizing the familial connections and continuity that define this new chapter.

   “Growing up, I always looked up to my Aunt and Uncle and wanted to be like them when I grew up. The way things have worked out has been amazing,” Jessica shared, expressing her excitement to set to work and get to know the new customers as well as those who have been returning to the shop for years.

   Tony also looks forward to establishing a strong relationship with the current clientele, hoping that past customers will continue to feel at home in the shop under their management. “I’m comfortable with Tony taking over,” Rick said, noting that the feedback so far has been positive, with confidence that customers will be happy with the transition.

   Jo Ann summed up the sentiment: “I think people will be happy with the changes.” While Tony and Jessica plan to update some aspects of the technology in the business, their focus remains on preserving the “old school” approach to customer service that has been a hallmark of Rick’s Repair. After all, exceptional customer service is crucial for fostering loyalty among returning customers.

   As Rick and Jo Ann Wangan ride off into retirement, the future of Rick’s Repair looks bright under the ownership of Tony and Jessica Wall. With a strong commitment to community, family values, and excellent service, the legacy of this cherished business is sure to thrive for years to come.

   Also, just in case you were wondering, there is no plan to change the name of the business. Rick’s legacy will continue to shine bright — his name will always have a prominent spot on the wall now owned by the Walls.