He sought out the best technology available at the time to create the first automobile wiper blades and grew the idea from a simple fix to worldwide use.

Within three years, Oishei's sales team had successfully sold the accessory to Packard, Lincoln, Cadillac and Buffalo's own Pierce-Arrow.

Through those sales, Oishei raised enough capital to buy out Jepson in 1919 and when World War I ended, he expanded availability of the product to Europe and beyond.

Although maintaining cash flow to service early loans made Trico's initial survival a dicey proposition, its success was assured following the immediate post-World War I automotive boom.

For one-piece glass, Trico offered a spring-loaded arcing wiper that was operated by hand and pivoted across the field of vision.

Although Trico did not invent the wiper motor, it did come up with a reliable unit run by an engine's manifold vacuum that quickly became the industry standard, especially in the aftermarket.

In 1934, that refillable wiper was redesigned to fit the new curved windshields, complete with internal springs to ensure constant pressure across the glass.

The Foundation concentrated its support to hospitals and schools in the Buffalo area with the balance being directed to cultural and social services needs.