GENTRY -- Park's Lumber Company in Gentry announced late on Sept. 1 it was closing its doors for good. The family business has served the Gentry area for 70 years.
The announcement came in the form of the following Facebook post from Janie Parks: "It is with much heartache that I tell you that, after 70 years in business, we have locked the doors of Parks Lumber Company. We have the best customers in the world and consider everyone of you our friends. We will certainly miss it but new doors will open. We love you all...." The announcement was signed, "Mike and Janie."
According to information provided to the Eagle Observer by Janie Parks, John Parks purchased the business from the estate of J.P. Roush in 1945 and changed the name to Parks Lumber. The original building, which is still there, was built by Roush in 1895. The business was operated by John Parks until 1950 when Pat Parks, John's son, took over. Mike Parks took over the business from his dad, Pat, in 1974, and operated it until last week when the doors were closed.
The closing was the result of the recent economic downturn, according to Janie Parks, and new banking regulations made it impossible for Mike and Janie to weather the storm.
"We would like to tell our customers that we appreciate their business and friendship," Janie wrote.
Mike and Janie were forced to give up their business and their home but were able to find a house to rent in Gentry, in the zone Janie represents as a city councilwoman, so she will be able to continue in that capacity.
At this time, what the future has in store for the Parks is unknown, but they remained in good spirits, trusting that as one door was closed another will open for them.
General News on 09/09/2015