Some say it’s shear madness to be working at 86 years-old. But for an Overland Park business owner, the last 64 years have been therapeutic.
Wayne Kozak of Wayne’s Barbershop is retiring.
When customers walk into his shop, many seek more than a haircut. Some come in for marriage advice, financial advice, or just to talk to someone who’ll listen.
“It actually should be 'Wayne’s Philosophy and Shrink Shop,'” said E.J. Irish, a customer.
Kozak enlisted in the Marines, enrolling in 1948, at just 16 years-old. After serving for four years, the Purple Heart recipient decided to join the family ranks. His dad, uncle and cousins were all barbers.
Kozak says he’s cut a lot of big names over the last six decades, such as Presidential Candidate Bob Dole. Kozak says Dole promised that he’d make him the White House barber if he won.
“It worked out better that he didn’t get in,” Kozak said. “Because I wouldn’t want to leave here. This is where my roots are.”
Through all the buzz cuts, high and tight trims and pompadours, you see what the buzz is all about when Kozak announced his retirement. Even current Marines came in to say goodbye.
One serviceman told us “Mr. Wayne is actually a Marine from Korea. He served in the Frozen Chosin. For Marines, that is hallowed ground.”
For Overland Park, Kozak’s barber shop has become hallowed ground. Which is why he was awarded a key to the city.
But he doesn't let the recognition go to his head. He treats every customer like the most famous person who's ever sat in his chair.
“I’ve worked on some famous people, but the most famous person I’ve ever worked on is the person in the chair and the next most famous person is the one waiting to get in the chair,” he said.
