Gerald "Bud" Shank was recently honored on his 40 years of automotive service career at an open house hosted by Rice Ford Lincoln Mercury.
Starting in 1969 with then Smith Ford, located on Winona Avenue in Warsaw, he worked as a mechanic, moving briefly to Munson Chevrolet before returning to Smith Ford in 1972 to become service manager.
He moved with Smith Ford into a new building on Ind. 15N in 1979 and kept his position when brothers Dan and John Rice purchased the dealership in 1985.
After almost 25 years with Rice Ford Lincoln Mercury, Shank officially retired Thursday.
"We appreciate the dedication you have given, not only to Rice Ford but to this community as well," said co-owner John Rice of Rice Ford. "You have been the face of our service department for many customers throughout your service career and we thank you."
Co-owner Dan Rice of Rice Ford presented Shank with the Rice Ford Outstanding Service Award. He was also given a retirement rocking chair that was signed by all those attending and has been on display in the service and parts area of the dealership for everyone to sign their best wishes on his retirement.
