ST. MARYS: In an unexpected Facebook post on Monday night, Bill Thompson, owner of Thompson's Meats & Deli in St. Marys announced that he's soon to retire much to the chagrin of hundreds of patrons who have come to love the Elk County staple. "After 30 years of business, I will be retiring. It’s been an incredible time from the early years in Johnsonburg and then St Marys. Many of you know I’m a musician and I'm wanting to do this full-time as well as traveling, etc. That being said, if you have interest in a turn-key business with extremely low start-up costs, message me. I will get a list of equipment, etc. soon. Will have a one or two-day sale on remaining inventory as well. Soon. I’ll post ahead. Thanks a million. Love you all!"

The meat market slash deli had a very lively and interactive social media presence for many years and in 2023 suffered a situation where access to the original page of over 6,000 followers was lost. At the time of this article, hundreds have reacted to the post and many have commented with well-wishes and expressions of sadness that the community will be without Bill and his tasty offerings. 

If you're traveling through St. Marys, make sure to make your way into the Erie Avenue establishment while you can. While an exact date wasn't given, soon means soon. Stop in soon and wish Bill well in retirement where he can focus on his music and take advantage of the sale(s) that are promised to be his parting gift. Additionally, for the potential entrepreneur following along, reach out to Bill if you have interest in what could be a great opportunity.