Second of two parts. 

Re: “After 47 Years, John Riordan Is a Legend”

Nearly a half-century after opening his plumbing business in Culver City, John Riordan said the most dramatic change about his industry is shrinkage – many fewer plumbers than there used to be.

“There is a very simple explanation,” he said. “People don’t want to get their hands dirty no more. It’s awful hard to find someone who will do that.”

Plumbing is not the only shrinking industry.

“Electricians have a hard time getting enough men to work. There’s nobody available.

“Carpenters also have a very difficult time.”

Plumbing for an explanation of the vanishing plumber, Mr. Riordan said “the pay is very good but the work is hard.

“People would rather work on something lighter, like computers, and stay clean.”

Not John Riordan, though. In 47 years, he never has been disappointed in his career choice. “I have really enjoyed it.”

At 89 years old, is he pondering retirement?

“Maybe next year will be my last,” Mr. Riordan said.

He smiled.  “I have been saying that for a little while.”

On the ledge of 90, he still reports to his office every afternoon.

No mystery about Mr. Riordan’s proudest accomplishment.

“I have three employees who have been with me for 40 years – Richard Geyer, over 40 years, Christine Tilman and the manager, Debbie Woodward. I have one for 28 years, Rafael Aguilar, and I’ve got one for 16.

“I’ve been really blessed,” Mr. Riordan said.

What is the source of this uncommon loyalty?

“Sometimes I always figure,” said Mr. Riordan said, “if you pay them a little bit more than what they are worth, they can’t afford to leave you.”