03/14/2026
An iconic Brockport business has begun its final lap.
For decades, Barry's Auto Center - owned by Andy and Dawn Riexinger - has been a familiar name to drivers and passengers in Brockport and the surrounding communities. The business traces its roots back to 1964 when local entrepreneur John B. “Smoke” Barry opened John B. Barry Dodge on Lake Road South.
Over time, the business evolved alongside the changing auto industry. Like many independent dealerships, Barry’s eventually shifted from selling new cars under a single manufacturer to focusing on used vehicle sales and automotive service, operating in later years as Barry’s Auto Center.
Andy Riexinger began working at the dealership in 1993, when it was owned by his father, David. In 2007, Andy became the owner, and he and Dawn raised their children, Nate and Emily, around the dealership.
“I’ve never known a life without Barry’s,” Nate said. “It was my first job, and I’ve worked here on and off for a decade. It’s bittersweet.”
Andy says the closing feels like the natural next chapter for the Riexinger family.
“It’s time for Dawn and me to retire,” Andy said. “The kids have found their own paths. We’re very thankful to the community — it’s been a great run.”
Since Andy announced the dealership would be closing, many longtime customers have stopped by to express their gratitude and share their memories.
“Lots of people bought their first cars here,” he said. “It’s nice to hear that people have trusted us for so long.”
Andy hopes to sell the final car on the lot by Memorial Day. The service department has already closed. The business itself is being closed, not sold, and the property is expected to be listed for sale soon. Existing warranties will continue to be honored.
“All the customers who have been stopping by to wish us well and share their stories have shown us just how much we have touched this community,” Dawn said. “It is such a bittersweet feeling to be moving on to our next chapter. I’m leaning on the lyrics from the song Closing Time by Semisonic: ‘Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end.’ We truly hope that whatever new beginning is meant for Barry’s makes a positive impact on the community we love so much.”
Readers are invited to share well-wishes and photos of their Barry’s cars in the comments for the Riexinger family. 💙Caurie
Photo collage: A mix of provided, historic and by Caurie Putnam. Family photo: left to right: Sarrah and Nate Riexinger, Dawn, Andy, Emily Riexinger and her husband Nate Maar.
