08/18/2026
Germantown lost another good man, and one of our towns old "standbys," and unique characters. 87 year old stubborn and Irascible DAVE BISHOP, for over five decades, was the loveable owner of the old Gas Station, and later BISHOP's Towing and Garage, located at Plum and Market Streets. Last week DAVID quietly passed away, and frankly will never be replaced.
For those that didn't have the pleasure to know him, DAVE was a big tough man on the exterior, but on the inside, he had a heart of gold and would do anything to help anyone in need. In todays fast paced business world, where speedy transactions at maximum profit reign, and people in need have to be customers first, DAVE was out of place, being cut from the old cloth of honesty, a firm handshake, and sentiment of service to others. The old Rodeo Rider and proud US Marine helped more people in this town, than most will ever realize. Many times he would give people verbal credit on their automotive work or big discounts on towing, especially widows and people down on their luck. His stories of towing vehicles all those years are the stuff of legends, including his recollections of almost being ran over multiple times. In his later years, he grew weary of heavy mechanical work and concentrated on brakes, tires, and towing, until 24 hour tow call outs became too tiring.
One could stop in and most of the old town curmudgeons could be found, solving the worlds problems, and disseminating the news and happenings in Germantown. Amazingly, these same old Gernantown men could frequently be found, doing DAVEs work for him, with no pay, other than hanging out on that busy little corner of the big world we live in, while DAVE sat in his chair starting an unwinnable argument or perusing through auction bulletins for petroleum memorabilia or guns. A few years ago DAVE began experiencing old age and some health problems. The day finally arrived, just a couple years ago, when he pulled the plug on his lifelong business and retired...
After graduating Germantown High School, In 1958, DAVE entered his beloved Marine Corps, serving all over the Far East, while assigned to B Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Marines. Somehow, after a couple of years of hard duty, DAVE was able to convince his Commanding Officer to put him on Special Duty-engaged in roping and riding in the Base Rodeo events...
The town has lost so many of the "Old Breed" characters that stamped their individual and indelible character on us. We realize it is ultimately, the way of God and the universe, but somehow we feel a melancholy void, that future generations will never be able to meet the likes of DAVE.
Today we salute DAVE BISHOP...a great American. Rest in peace, you made our community a better place...
