After more than 50 years, Millie’s bids a sad adieu (5 photos)

Millie's Mini Mart is closing after more than 50 years in the Bayview community.

A public poster titled To The Many Valued Customers of Millie's Mini Mart reads: "As Pat now rests with her parents Earl and Millie, it is with great sadness that it is now time to say good-bye."

There's a last chance to shop and show support. The store is selling what merchandise it has left.

The sale continues Friday from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Customers have been posting their heartfelt thoughts and recollections on Facebook.

Some of the comments can be seen here:

*****

Will never forget my time and memories shared with Pat, and the countless money spent on candy, movie and video game rentals, and much much more as I continued to grow in the community! Thanks for everything!

*****

I've only been in the neighbourhood for 2 years, but this shop was an essential part of my and my children's experience here. I feel for everyone who is losing a big piece of their life with this closure.

*****

I had the privilege of being able to spend about 15-20 mins with Pat the day before she passed. We laughed about how I had cash and exact change for the first time ever. Eris and I very much enjoyed our chats, and the special treats Pat had hiding behind the cash for Eris is something her little 4 year old mind remembers clearly.

*****

I remember pat and and and an employee named Anna. Three of us talked a lot when l lived on Goulais Ave. Last time l'd seen and talked to Pat was 5 years ago when she seen me she had a big smile we talked about everything. It was just like old times when l would go there. Pat and l laughed when l seen her l was living in another town at that time when l moved back to town last time l saw Pat l said l have something to show you. I pulled out my Millies mini mart video card we both laughed. So many memories everyone has of that store and the people.

*****

This was the only place I could go to where I had memories with both my grandparents and parents. This is rare for me. Regardless of how far you travelled, when you returned to Bayview, this cozy little place genuinely made it feel like home. Pat/Anne would never forget a familiar face that had grown up over the years, even if it were 10 years. This was a positive place that wont be forgotten