AFTER 90 years in business, a popular car dealership has abruptly closed its doors for good.
Loyal customers were devastated as they shouted: “An icon we will dearly miss.”
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Buddenhagen’s, formerly located in Hortonville, New York, announced it would close last month.
The dealership was founded by Anthony Buddenhagen and has been in partnership with Ford for 50 years.
A year before they announced the closure, the dealership ended its association with Ford.
Anthony’s sons purchased the business in 1962, and it was later purchased by nephew Hal and his friend, Tom Dnistrain, in 1990.
Unfortunately, Tom passed away shortly after they acquired the Leukemia business.
However, Hal kept the business going.
Talking to Sullivan County Democrat on why he decided to close the dealership, Hal said, “It’s about time.”
Its employees had a long history with the company.
Buddenhagen mechanic Chris Doney has worked at the dealership for 22 years and has plans to continue his career in auto repair.
Its longest-serving employee, Kim LeRoy, was with the company for 25 years before retiring weeks before the company closed.
The outlet noted that it was more than just a business; they were more like a “family”.
“He also talked about his own family, many of whom graced his desk and office in framed photos,” the outlet reported.
DEVASTATED FANS
After the news broke, fans rushed to social media to share their disbelief and devastation.
“An icon in the community who will be greatly missed,” wrote one customer on Facebook.
“It’s sad that there wasn’t another family member to carry on. We will definitely miss their service,” said another.
Tips for dealerships
Here are some expert tips when buying a car from a dealership:
- 1. Set your price: Make sure you have calculated your monthly budget before going to the lot. You must include your car loan payment, insurance costs, fuel and regular maintenance.
- 2. Research: Make sure you know which cars you’re interested in testing before you get to the dealership.
- 3. Pre-approval: Secure financing before going to the dealership. Dealerships may offer a better interest rate if they are competing with an outside bank.
- 4. Test: Drive before making any payments. Buying a car will be worth thousands of dollars – drivers should ensure they like the car’s drivetrain, steering and comfort before driving it off the lot
- 5. Haggle: Drivers should always try to negotiate the price. There are so many good cars on the American market – buyers have a strong hand in negotiating prices.
Source: Kelley Blue Book
“It’s a loss for this community,” wrote a third.
While many were devastated, another wished Hal well, saying: “Enjoy your retirement.”
Hal has seemingly impacted the community around him and is grateful for the memories made since taking over the business.
“The friendships I’ve made along the way will never go away,” he told the Sullivan County Democrat.
“And to my family and staff, thank you all.”
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This story originally appeared on The-sun.com read the full story
