It is a cold day here in Salt Lake City, a fitting day for my mood following the election. It is hard to imagine all the snow after 70 degree weather and picking strawberries just three days ago! Our favorite friend and grocer, Bill Spencer, of 8th Avenue Meat and Grocery, also died on Saturday, ending a productive 87 years of friendliness and interest in others that just can't compare. My story:
In 1980, I started nursing school here in Salt Lake. I lived in the Colonial House, on the corner of 7th Avenue and B street. It is an old mansion, owned by LDS Hospital, and at the time, nursing students could live there one semester until they figured out where else to live. I had no car, and walked over to 8th Avenue Meat and Grocery to shop. I did my shopping, and went to check out, realizing only at that time, I had left my checkbook at home. "Can you keep this for me at the register?" I asked, "I'll be right back with the checkbook."
Bill was there at the checkout. "You can just charge it," he said, "and pay for it the next time you come in."I couldn't believe it. Here I was in the big city, and some man who doesn't even know me offers to let me charge something. It was just like my grandpa's store, in Letha, Idaho, (population 150), and I was trusted, even though he didn't know me. I went home and got the checkbook, and came back and paid. Bill got a customer at that moment. Those who know me well know I do all the shopping I can at Bill's. I have loved taking the kids into see the salmon, having Bill ask about my day, order me food, and even tell me how to cook it! I have loved the fresh meats and personal service at the meat counter. I have loved the great prices, and felt smug that those shopping at the big stores think they are getting a deal just because there is an advertisement. Bill has been a part of my family's life, and so many people's, and I am sure all of us will dearly miss him.
Yeah, it is a cold day here, and easy to be sad. So many good things are gone, and the best of them is Bill.
6 comments:
He was caring and kind, and a people person who loved and helped his customers. I have many good memories of him and his store growing up, and I will really miss him.
I saw him every time I went to the grocery store and I was amazed that he was still working so hard.
May he rest in peace
Wow mom, nice job being depressed. Right now you're being a half empty glass of water type of person. LET'S BE OPTIMISTIC!!! WE LOVE SNOW!!
He was the best person-who-owns-a-grocery-store ever!!!
I am going to miss him a lot too.
Thank you Annie 8-)
Good you're here ^^
Hi Shelly, I am so glad you posted something on Bill. All who have visited you have likely been to 8th Avenue Market. What a sweet man, and truly his life should be celbrated for his compassion and concern for all. I hope his family will keep the store open. Have you heard anything more?
Post a Comment