It’s safe to say that when Neil Kirkes began doing electrical work in defense plants during World War II, he had no idea that his diligent work would result in a family-owned business that would be successful for three-quarters of a century and counting. But that’s exactly the case as Kirkes Electric, now stationed at 999 N. Golden State Blvd. and owned by grandson Kyle Kirkes, celebrated its 75th anniversary on Thursday.

Mayor Amy Bublak presented Kirkes with a Certificate of Appreciation on Thursday, as did the Turlock Chamber of Commerce.

Whether community members need electrical work in their homes or business, an HVAC needs to be repaired or replaced, or if families are interested in installing a home theater or state-of-the-art sound systems, Kyle Kirkes said he is most proud of the way his team is able to help others in their community.

“I am so lucky and blessed to be able to work with good people,” he said to the Journal earlier this year. “Teamwork is the most important thing… There's been a couple of guys that have been here longer than me, but I helped put them in the position that they are now in running their own departments. And when they're successful, I'm successful. And success comes when we get projects done and help meet the needs of our customers. That’s what makes me proud.”