THUNDER BAY — An institution in the Lappe community and the summer camp area north of Thunder Bay is closing its doors.
Ed Lindsey, the owner of the Lappe variety store for the past 50 years, has announced that the last day of business will be Feb. 28.
"We thank you for a lifetime of support," a notice posted on the door states.
A store has operated at that location at the intersection of Highways 589 and 591 since well back into the last century, including many years when it was run as a People's Co-op location.
The Lappe store was also a beer and liquor outlet, but just recently stopped providing that service.
Although Lindsey was not available Wednesday for an interview, a family spokesperson said that, at the age of 85, he decided it was time to retire.
Numerous residents and campers in Gorham, Ware, Jacques and Fowler Townships have expressed dismay over the news on social media.
Lindsay Sipila, chair of the Lappe and Area Local Services Board, said Wednesday that she was shocked and disappointed to hear the store is closing.
"It's sad to see. It's such a big part of the community," Sipila said, adding that it would be nice to see someone else take over and keep it in operation.
