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Specialties
Kitchen Remodeling
Bathroom Remodeling
Plumbing Repairs
Drain Cleaning and Septic
Electrical
Paint
Drywall
Doors and Trim
HVAC
Whole House Remodels
Small Additions
Design Work
Finish Carpentry
General Repairs
Material Sales
Light Commercial — Tenant Improvement
History
Established in 1946.
In 1946, Luke Russell wrote a letter to his brother-in-law Howard Pykles in Fairbault, MN, informing him of an opportunity to buy out a paint and appliance business that was owned by his two brothers Earl and Harmon. Luke had been honorably discharged from the Army Air Corps, and was working for his brothers after the war.
Howard sold everything he had and left 25 years of experience in the newspaper business to move his wife and son to California and purchase the business.
Originally named «Russell’s Plumbing Hardware Appliance and Paint», Howard and Luke formed a partnership in pursuit of their American Dream which lasted until 1967. A year after opening a second store in the Spring Valley area, Luke became the sole owner of the new store as Howard kept the original location at 4611 University Ave.
Then in 1971, Howard’s son Craig joined the business and became the sole owner in 1977 when his father retired. Craig and his son Tobias run the business today.
Meet the Business Owner
Craig P.
Business Owner
Craig Pykles was born in Fairbault, MN in February of 1946. He moved to San Diego with his family when he was 7 years old. As he grew up he attended both Crawford High School (’64) and San Diego State University (’68) where he graduated with a degree in Math and a Minor in Business. He then earned an MBA from Brigham Young University (’70) and went to work in the administrative services department of Arthur Andersen and Co. in West Los Angeles. After 2 years he returned home to take part in the family business.
In the 40 plus years since, Craig has served thousands of customers, raised 6 children and is a proud grandfather to 16 grandchildren. He loves his family and his community and is happy to serve them both.