A looming “silver tsunami” of retiring baby boomer business owners could dramatically reshape America’s small-business landscape.Nearly half of U.S. small-business owners are 55 or older, yet just 54% have a succession plan in place — setting the stage for a potential retirement shock that could leave many companies vulnerable over the next decade, according to Forbes.The stakes are high. Small businesses employ more than 62 million Americans and account for roughly 43% of U.S. GDP, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration. If a significant share of those businesses close instead of transitioning to new leadership, communities nationwide could feel the effects, American Operator founder William Fry told FOX Business.PAYCHECKS KEEP RISING FOR AMERICAN WORKERS, PROVIDING BOOST TO HOUSEHOLD BUDGETS”They’re huge creators of wealth, and in my opinion, they’re the most pure version of the American Dream — you come to this country, and you can build a better life for yourself,” Fry told FOX Business.Many owners have spent decades building their businesses on relationships and reputation, making succession decisions deeply personal.After 12 years growing a painting company in Jackson, Wyoming, husband-and-wife team Erik and Kassie Hansen began considering their next chapter at Greenway Painting — whether to sell the business