Bob's Standard closes after more than 75 years

(Left to right): Dave Usgaard and Jeff Burke

A Decorah landmark is no more.

Bob's Standard closed its doors on Saturday after more than 75 years in operation.  Co-owners Dave Usgaard and Jeff Burke decided to close the service station when Usgaard decided to retire from auto repair.  Burke will continue his work, but in a new location.

Bob's Standard opened some time in the 1930s, according to Usgaard.  It was a West Side fixture over the years, especially for Luther College students and staff. 

One decorahnews.com reader remembers that, "When Earl (Hi) Johnson owned the station, I was just asmall kid with a new red pedal tractor, but had a problem!  It was winter and with snow on the ground, Ihad problems getting the tractor to go because the wheels would spin in thesnow.  My dad laughed and said I neededtire chains for my tractor!  Unknown tome my dad must have talked to Hi about my problem and Hi said he could fixthat.   Well in a few days my dad broughthome a new set of custom built tire chains for my tractor.   Now I had chains for my tractor just likedad had for his tractor.  Thanks Hi!"

Another decorahnews.com reader says, "I worked for Bob and with his boys and Jeff growing up in Decorah during the 1980s. Bob always had a part-time job for me in the summer. I learned a lot about business, customer service and work ethic working for Bob. I have many fond memories of the station and fun stories of working weekends there. Best of luck to Dave and Jeff as they move into a new chapter in their lives.  It will always be known as Bob's Standard to me."

Another decorahnews.com reader says, "I am somewhat saddened by the closing of Bob's Standard, having my family's vehicles serviced and gassed there since 1983 when I moved to the area.   Bob, Dave and Jeff are great people and great Decorah ambassadors who go out of their way to help customers in need.  Congratulations to Bob and Dave Usgaard and Jeff Burke for their past efforts and best wishes to Jeff's new service.  GREAT job, guys!"

Carl, who used to work for Bob's Standard, remembers: "I worked there when I was in high school back in the mid 1970's. Bob Usgaard and Norm Smith were a big influence on how to serve and earn respect to and from the community and people who pass by everyday. Bob personally taught me how to count change back to customer after a purchase. A skill which now is long lost. Dave and Jeff, you carried the torch well. Your service to this community will be missed."