Gulbransen marks 55 Years at Oslo Sinclair, still fueled by community

For more than five decades, Gene Gulbransen has been the face of the Oslo Sinclair station, a fixture in this small Minnesota town. What began in 1972 as a leap of faith has become a lifelong commitment to service, community and family.
“I didn’t know what I was getting myself into,” Gulbransen said, reflecting on his early days. “It was hectic, but I got the hang of things.”
Before taking over the station, Gulbransen had already been hauling fuel for Sinclair since 1970. Back then, Oslo was a quiet, rural town surrounded by farmland. Today, a few neighborhoods have sprung up, but the station remains largely unchanged, and that’s by design.
“I’ve done some outside work, but I want to keep the integrity of it,” he said.
Originally owned by Ernest Aakre, the station has been part of the community for 70 years. Gulbransen’s stewardship has made it more than just a gas stop; it’s a gathering place. 
“I’ve got what I call the coffee crowd,” he said. “They’re here at 9 a.m. every day.”
Gulbransen opens the station at 5:30 a.m. and closes at 5 p.m., six days a week. His wife, Sharon, handles the books and computer work, “I don’t dare touch it,” he joked.
The couple’s four children, all Hayfield graduates, are preparing to carry on the family legacy.
In June, his family threw him a party to celebrate 55 years with Sinclair. Though he stopped hauling fuel last December, retirement isn’t on his radar.
“I’ve stayed energetic, even at my age. I love it,” he said.
Looking ahead, Gulbransen hopes to expand the station into a convenience store. “I think our town needs it,” he said. “My kids will do a great job.”
His advice to young entrepreneurs is simple.
“Work hard at it. Have good help,” Gulbransen said. “I didn’t take any time off in the beginning, I was all in.”
When asked what he’s most proud of, Gulbransen doesn’t hesitate.
“Having the best people come in this place,” he said.
After 55 years, it’s clear the feeling is mutual.