The restaurant started as a 10-stool hamburger stand in Glendale, California, opening in 1936 with an investment of $300 raised from the sale of his car.

[9] He continued on the city council but resigned in August 1948,[10][11] citing conflicts with Bob's Big Boy and "a desire to make an occasional fishing trip".

As a board member, Wian recommended Marriott approach his friend Roy Rogers about the use of his name to rebrand the corporation's RoBee's Roast Beef chain.

His joy in Casey and Julie, and his time with them too limited by business, influenced his decision to sell Big Boy.

[15][16] Wian retired in the 1970s and enjoyed outdoor activities on his 800-acre ranch in Valyermo, CA where he lived until relocating to Newport Beach in 1985.