The devastating fire yesterday, which destroyed a block of historic buildings on Queen Street West near Bathurst, leaves more than a big empty hole in the city. It’s difficult to wrap one’s mind around the feelings of loss for those who lived in the apartments over the stores - everything gone but the clothes they were wearing when they escaped and their memories.
Personally, I’ll miss Duke’s Cycle the most. Gary Duke, like his father and grandfather before him, ran the best bicycle store in Toronto. Some of the remarkable 94 year history of Duke’s has filled the pages of today’s newspapers. Darren Duke was one of those living in the upstairs apartments. In keeping with the times, Justine Duke, has created a Facebook group for Duke’s and posted some wonderful pictures of the family and store in happier times.
Along with thousands of others who have known the Duke’s store and family for many years, I wish them well and strength in rebuilding the business and their lives.
