Owners Retiring From Family Business After 36 Years In Wallingford

WALLINGFORD, CT — The owners of a longtime family business in Wallingford are retiring next week.

Jim and Patty Zuppe announced this week that they are retiring from Turnpike Tire & Auto Service as of Oct. 17 after 36 years in business at 71 South Turnpike Rd. in Wallingford.

“Turnpike Tire & Auto Service was established 36 years ago when I first had the dream of starting my own business,” Jim Zuppe wrote in a letter to customers. “During that time it has been an absolute pleasure and privilege to work for, and with, you. I am grateful for the trust you placed in me and the relationship and friendship we have built and shared. We saw your children grow up, and parents become grandparents, and news of new babies being born. I will miss our conversations which were stimulating, comical and entertaining.

“Closing our doors for the last time will be bittersweet but the new owner, Mike Caprio, will step into my place at ‘Turnpike Tire & Auto Service’ and continue your service as a qualified and experienced provider of your needs. I am confident he will gain your trust by giving you the excellent service you have come to expect.”

Zuppe also said that worker Jason Policastro will be staying on as a member of the new team. The shop’s phone number will also remain the same, according to Zuppe.

“It will be difficult to say goodbye, I will be flooded with memories of all those years,” Zuppe wrote. “It has indeed been a pleasure providing vehicle service to you. I wish you all good health, happiness and success in any future endeavor. I will be starting the path on a new journey when the key locks the door for the last time.”

For more information about Turnpike Tire & Auto, visit its website here and on Facebook here.