I write this letter to the editor after putting the key in the door one last time, handing that key over to the future and closing the Zellers store in Vernon for the final time.

First I would like to thank all of the customers whom have loyally shopped in our store over the years making it the successful location that it was.

The familiar faces and positive experiences we encountered was a sure reason we enjoyed working and serving each of you every day and it has been a true privilege to have been a contributing member of the community to which we served.

I would also like to thank the management, staff and tenants of the Village Green Shopping Center for your continued support over the many years that we have been involved.

Finally, and most importantly, I would like to thank all the associates past and present that I have had the opportunity and pleasure to work with during the time that my family has been in Vernon.

The associates in this particular Zellers store location exuded a sense of pride, integrity and respect for one another second to none, and I am proud to have been part of your team.

The relationships that you formed with myself, your fellow associates and the many customers you served will be dearly missed by all leaving a void only to be filled by the fond memories we have and the footprints that we made.

Thanks for being part of history.

Duane Barr

Zellers store manager