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come to the Turn Pike,” said Dusty.

“We have tons of regulars, people who place orders and those who come back year after year,” he added.

Dusty felt that the business has been able to maintain those customers in large part because of a high standard of customer service. He said Brenda exuded warmth and truly welcomed people.

“The biggest thing people mention is her smile, that she was always friendly when you walked in the door. No matter what, she always smiled and said, ‘How can I help you?’ And if we didn’t have something, she’d go and make it — like a basket or design. She was always friendly and upbeat,” he said.

Brenda’s influence also extended to giving back to the community and supporting local causes.

“For Brenda and I, the people part has been a big deal. Brenda’s always been really big into community service and she’s taught me a lot about community service too. Whether it’s donating a gift certificate or working with schools on their flower orders, for the ag classes or FFAs, or the Pet WalkwedidfortheMarshfield Area Pet Shelter,” said Dusty.

Brenda also planned many events at the Turn Pike over the years, such as outdoor music performances, wine tastings, Girl Scout and youth trips to the corn maze, and more. She enjoyed events that brought the community together.

“Yes, Brenda loved to party. She loved a good event with music and flowers,” said Dusty.

He hopes to eventually offer more events. He wanted the community to know that he plans to keep the business active, as he moves forward day by day.

“Turn Pike Greenhouse is absolutely going to go on. Yes, I’ve lost my partner, but I still have my inspiration.

Turn Pike’s hours are Monday through Saturday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday 1-6 p.m. For more information, call 715-238-7111. You can also follow them on Facebook or go to TurnPikeGreenhouses.com for a list of plants for sale.

VALORIE BRECHT/STAFF PHOTO