LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — Ted's Barber Shop is said to be the oldest barber shop in Lima, opening in 1938. At the end of this month, 86-year-old owner Gary Klingler will be closing up shop.
"My shop license and barber's license expires on the 28th. So, I thought, well, I might as well retire and go home and enjoy my sweet lady at home," he laughed.
Klingler bought the shop in 1967 after attending barber school and earning his barber's license in Toledo. Since then, he's been serving customers in Lima. When you walk into his shop, it feels like traveling back in time. There's no fancy new equipment, no appointments and even the prices have stayed the same since he first opened — $10 for a haircut.
"Some people have a hard time coming up with $10 ... but you know, if you go to a style shop, they charge you more because they call it a 'style' instead of a haircut. But it's the same result, when you get done cutting in your wallet, in your hair."
Over the years, it's hard to imagine how many people have sat in his chair. He says some of them have become like family.
"I enjoy my customers. They tell me a lot of things going on in their life and stuff like that. And if they have an issue physically or financially, I say, well, tonight I'll pray for you."
As for the future of the barber shop, someone may be in the works to buy it from him. In the meantime, Klingler says he looks forward to playing golf, attending church and spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren.
