The Morrison House Cafe has closed its doors after over six and one-half years under the stewardship of Chuck and Cindy Bourn.
The decision to close the cafe comes on the heels of the Morrison House’s 100th anniversary, which was celebrated earlier this summer during Lacombe Days.
Although difficult, Cindy is excited to be able to spend more time with her family, including her four young granddaughters, after spending over 16 years operating a cafe — 10 in Nordegg and 6.5 here in Lacombe. Cindy said her customers are disapointed but taking the news well.
“They are very sad. They are happy for me, but sad for them. They have been wondering if someone else can buy it or run it,” she said.
Although not officially for sale, Cindy and Chuck said they would be willing to listen to offers for the cafe in the home, although the Bourns do love living in one of Lacombe’s oldest residences.
“I loved sharing it over these years,” she said.
The closure of the cafe finishes off a lifetime career in baking for Cindy which was sparked when she started baking in her mother’s kitchen at the age five.
“Before I had a cafe, I loved to entertain and would always entertain. I would always have people over to entertain and for parties. When the Nordegg cafe came available, it was a beautiful fit and I loved it. I wanted to continue to do it after Chuck wanted to move back into a city,” Cindy said.
Cindy said the closure was a relief once she finally made the decision, but the difficult part was knowing she would have to say good-bye to staff and customers who have become family over the years.
“People have given me cards and retirement presents — that has been great. We have had a few couples who have had their first dates here. Then they dated. Then they got married. I love sharing this home,” she said.
The final day of operation for the home was on Aug. 30th — which was an earlier year-end closure than usual because the Bourns decided they didn’t want to have to hire a position only for the four months between September and December.
“Lacombe is such a great city. Not only do we love this house, we also love Lacombe a lot. It is wonderful we will be staying in Lacombe. This city has been so good to us,” she said.
She added, “Thank you, thank you, thank you to our great customers and staff. We live here, so come visit.”
todd.vaughan@lacombeexpress.com
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