Here's my 2 cents...
Hard to believe after a 30-40 yr relationship that this shop would have ripped you off so much!. (maybe a love / hate relationshiip)? I agree that you should have asked, but after so many years, where's the trust?. After being in business for 30+ yrs in the hydraulic business, its a 2-way street. I would have charged you for ONE hour's labor, to cover everything. Two hrs. was to much for a 15min. job. but I think one would have been more than fare for everybody. Remember he has to stand behind his repair (for liability reason's etc.), in case you come "whinning" back for something.
Scotty