The store was built in 1956 by Mr. Sorge and was purchased in 1969 by Ron & Gladys Blakeborough. They operated a successful business and raised five children in the process. Toward the end of 2003 Gladys was having heart trouble and in June of 2004 she had major surgery and it was time for them to retire from the store. Gladys and Ron’s daughter Sharon stepped in at this point and managed the store for them after which she and her husband purchased the land, building and existing stock.
Keremeos Variety has continued to do well in spite of the economic downturns of the last four years but the time has come to retire and enjoy life a little. The store has been for sale for a period of time and Sharon had hoped someone would take the reins and continue to provide Keremeos with a place to purchase a gift or a party dress or some work clothes without leaving town. Time marches on however and Sharon has decided to sell the stock and have as much fun as possible doing it. Sharon would like to thank all the stores patrons past and present for their support, patience (when items were on order for example) and most of all for the wonderful friendships that are the hallmarks of towns like Keremeos and the surrounding communities.