44 years and 
counting

LIMA — Phillip Osmon started at Hofeller, Hiatt & Clark in 1966 at the age of 21. In 1980, he bought a small share of the store from the owners at that time, Frank Wellman and David Lammers. When Lammers eventually left, Osmon bought a larger share of the store, and about 12 years ago, when Wellman retired, he became a co-owner with James Gaugh, who is now retired from the daily operations of the store.Those years of working prepared him for his role now as co-owner. “Because of the size of the store and the type of store, the owner has always worked in the store and out on the sales floor,” Osmon said.The many hats that Osmon wears include salesperson, buyer, bookkeeper, as well as, doing inventory and stock work.“In small retail, you do a little bit of everything,” he said.Two of Osmon’s favorite jobs are buying merchandise for upcoming seasons and selling to the customers. The small staff of three work together to look at clothing lines and brainstorm to project what customers will most want to see in the store.“It is very satisfying to feel like you have matched the right product with the right person,” he said.Osmon is also very involved in the community of Lima. He has served on several community boards such as The Lima Chamber of Commerce; Better Business Bureau where he was a past president; board of the Lima Symphony Orchestra and the Rotary Foundation Board. He is also a member of the Lima Rotary Club. Osmon participates in these boards and clubs to help the community as a whole. By helping the community, it also helps business. “When a local business is doing well, it helps the community,” Osmon said. “Communities and businesses work together to help each other thrive and grow.” Overall, Osmon has seen his time at Hofeller, Hiatt & Clark as not only a great opportunity but also as something he truly enjoys even after 44 years. “I have had the opportunity that some don’t get to see — I get to come to a job I love every day,” he said. “I can’t think of anything else I’d rather be doing.”