Waukee Hardware's Longest Tenured Employee is a Cat

Who: Wesley the Cat

Age: 19

How long has Waukee been his home: Wesley’s been living and working in Waukee ever since 1996, when Geoff Warmouth, the owner of Waukee Hardware decided the store could use a pet.

“We just thought that it would be nice to have a store cat to keep us company on slow days," Warmouth said. "And to help us with any mice problems we might have."

What makes him notable: At 19, Wesley, a hefty orange tabby, is older than most cats, a feat that Warmouth credits to his good health, steady diet, and lots of love. Wesley even has a heated bed for the cold winter months.

Warmouth, who has several cats at home, said he’s never considered taking Wesley home at night, mostly because he and his wife are always at the hardware store.

“We’re here longer than we’re at home,” Warmouth said.

Why should you get to know him: Wesley, who spends most of his days sleeping in the store's front window, has attracted a fan base over the years. Plenty of folks walking by will do a double-take when they spot him. Warmouth says it’s a common sight to see residents, with their noses pressed to the glass, checking up on the cat.

“I have people who come in just to see him, and on the way out they end up buying something,” Warmouth said.