Longtime Spring Valley barber retires

For six decades, lifelong Spring Valley resident Chuck Mercier cut hair on St. Paul Street.

He recently decided to put down the clippers and retire, but he didn’t want anyone to make a big deal about it.

“While I invited Chuck here tonight, he spurned any publicity, stating that he was simply fortunate to be able to make a living in the community that he grew up in with the peers and friends he has made,” Spring Valley Mayor Walt Marini said at a recent council meeting where Mercier was recognized.

The city presented Mercier with a plaque to honor his 60 years in business in the community.

“While this plaque notes some highlights of his business involvement, his longevity truly speaks louder than these words, and our community will miss his services and presence,” Marini said.

Mercier worked at the A&P Store and later sold Christmas trees after being discharged from the Navy.

He started as a barber apprentice under Al Thomlinson in 1960 before opening his own shop at 211 W. St. Paul St. in 1964.

In 1967, he built a new shop at 215 W. St. Paul St. and remained there until retirement.

“I think it’s important to recognize any of our business people who have experienced the longevity that he has,” Spring Valley Economic Development Director Debb Ladgenski said. “They’re definitely an asset to the community for the service they provide, for the friends they made and the support they give to our organizations and events.

“They’re examples that entrepreneurs can be in Spring Valley and have a successful living.”

While Mercier’s wife, Linda, said he would rather not be interviewed about his career, he did thank his customers in a recent NewsTribune advertisement.

“Thanks to all of my great customers for supporting me for 60 years. I would like to thank each one of you. Seriously, I will miss you all,” the ad said.

Although Mercier has retired, hair still will be cut at 215 W. St. Paul. Carrie Lenhart bought the building and plans to open Glam by Carrie in August.

“I found out that Chuck started in the building I had been in apprenticing under someone,” said Lenhart, who previously was renting space. “At that point, I knew it was meant to be [that I buy his building]. I just hope I’m as successful as he was in his career. Chuck and Linda are good people. They are just as excited to see what changes we make in the building as we are.”