As of Jan. 1, Allen Isgrigg is the new owner of Gerald Home Center. He takes the reins from Otis and Jeanie Schulte, however Jeanie will stay with the business for a short transition period.

Isgrigg says not much will change under his watch. He will offer the same products and services that the Schultes did. He plans to offer everything in building materials. Custom home and building plans will still be available.

Otis Schulte reports mixed feelings about the sale. While he looks forward to enjoying retirement he has been in the lumber business for 42 years, most of his adult life. He began working for his father and uncles while still in high school. After college, he tried a few things, but returned to the family-owned business, eventually buying the business on his own. He and Jeanie ran the business, along with other businesses in town, finally building the new store in 2004 where the business is currently located at 388 W. Springfield Road. He believes it will be hard to let go of something that has been such a big part of his life.

Jeanie is also looking forward to a more relaxed lifestyle and plans to do some genealogy searching.

Isgrigg is joined by his twin brother Dean. Both Isgrigg brothers have moved to Gerald. They grew up in the Spring Bluff area.

Allen says he had some lumberyard experience before coming to work for the Schultes about five years ago.

Gerald Home Center will continue its hours of Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. - noon. The phone number is 573-764-5000.