Fifty years of dedication, service, and pride. That’s the legacy of the Kenyon NAPA Auto Parts store. The legacy began in 1976 when Ken Pierce and Gary Van Erp opened the business and began to serve the Kenyon community. Throughout the years, the NAPA business was owned by various owners until 2006, when Jeff and Ann Traxler purchased the NAPA auto parts store from Larry Halthus and Rick Degan.
Jeff and Ann already owned their own auto business: Traxler Power. For them, adding the NAPA store seemed like a good fit since it was a major supplier to Traxler Power. Jeff and Ann recalled that when the NAPA store went up for sale, they “didn’t want it to leave town.” Farmers and auto mechanics alike depended on the NAPA store for easy access to parts that kept them on the road and in the field. If the NAPA store moved to a different town, obtaining parts would become more of a hassle. Jeff and Ann had “always wanted to put the two businesses together,” and in July of 2006, they did just that.
Traxler Power focuses on four areas of service: Ag repair, semi-trucks and trailers, auto, and lawn and garden. The Kenyon NAPA store, blended with Traxler Power, provides more than just auto parts. Jeff and Ann noted that when you walk into their store, you are getting more than just parts, “you’re also getting some technical help” from employees who know their stuff. Having their business now situated on Huseth Street instead of downtown has really helped them to more easily provide service to the bigger vehicles on the road, like semi-trucks and DOT vehicles. The NAPA and Traxler Power businesses have been in the new building for a year. Jeff says having extra parking space has made repairs and business much easier.
Jeff and Ann Traxler love being able to serve the Kenyon community through both Traxler Power, the NAPA store, and Traxler Law (Ann’s business). Their son, Levi, who works with them, said he greatly enjoys “helping everybody” who comes into the shop. The Traxler family loves the small-town atmosphere and knowing their customers. The Traxler Power and NAPA store is truly a family business. Their commitment to quality and community is seen in the way they interact with their customers. As for the future of the Traxler Power business, Jeff and Ann are looking forward to hiring a few more people in the near future. They are also excited to see how their son, Levi, becomes more involved in the business.
NAPA is currently running a sale on filters, so don’t forget to stock up. The sale will run through the 28th of February, 2026. Jeff and Ann would also like to invite the Kenyon community to join them in celebrating the retirement of Owen Aaland, a long-time employee. The celebration will take place on February 27th, from 1-3 pm. The NAPA and Traxler Power storefront is located at 502 Huseth Street in Kenyon.
