After Cletus Kappelmann bought Cooper Drug from then owner John Cooper, he began to make changes.  Cletus expanded the pharmacy when he purchased the 511 State Street building, doubling the square footage of the store.  Because of the friendly atmosphere, Cooper Drug became the center gathering spot for downtown Augusta.

When Brett joined the Cooper Drug team in 2003, he brought new energy and enthusiasm to Cooper Drug and is very optimistic about the store's place in the Augusta community.  Currently, Cooper Drug is undergoing interior remodeling to provide a fresh, new look for the store.  The remodeling will be completed in March 2007.  In addition, Cooper Drug will carry new lines of merchandise and also durable medical supplies.

"Growing up, I saw my father help customers and make a difference in their lives.  I knew I wanted to do the same and do it by his side," Brett states.

"There's no guarantee my sons will choose the same path in life that I did.  However, if they do,  I would love to continue the family tradition and welcome them into Cooper Drug to work by my side," Brett explains of his three sons.

A Pharmacist with Commitment and Passion . . .
"My parents taught me to be committed to what I am doing and to be passionate about what I am doing.  I have found my passion and commitment as a pharmacist and I hope to teach my son the importance of passion in your profession," Brett says.

Brett is the second of four children of Cletus and the late Phyllis Kappelmann.  Like his father, Brett decided to pursue a career as a pharmacist and attended KU School of Pharmacy to do so.  While at KU, he played for the Jayhawk's baseball team.

"Balancing school, work and sports enhanced my work ethic that my parents had already instilled in me.  Now, that same work ethic and passion for what I do makes a daily difference," Brett explains.

In 2006, Brett Kappelmann decided to make changes to Cooper Drug.  A new look.  A new line of merchandise.  A new way of reaching customers.  But not all things are new.  Brett and Cletus are still focused on their customers.  They are still going the extra mile by offering modern medicine and old-fashioned service to all their customers.