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Go-to guy earns his retirement

By Mark Squibb | June 17, 2021

After 28 years, Bobby Evans is hanging up his apron.

Whether collecting carts, bagging groceries, carrying out garbage, or helping other departments with their tasks, Evans’ face was a familiar, friendly one at the Conception Bay South Sobeys, as well known to customers as to staff as belonging to someone who was always ready to lend a hand. Evans always seemed to perform his tasks with the speed of light and his spare, fast moving form seemed as much a part of the store and the activity on the parking lot as the shopping carts and the green aprons.

“We’re going to be lost without him because we relied so much on him,” admitted assistant manager Margie Blackmore. “He is recognized by all our regular shoppers. The community as a whole, everybody, knows Bobby. No matter what you ask Bobby to do, he’s there.”

On June 10, Evans’ fellow staff members celebrated both his birthday and his retirement with decorations, well wishes, and cupcakes.

The Montreal Canadiens ball cap and Carey Price jersey offered as gifts from Sobeys staff was the icing on the cake.

“I’m very happy, but leaving is going to be very sad,” said Evans.

Staff who were off that day, and even some customers, came in just to say their farewells.

“Customers are going to miss me, sadly,” agreed Evans. “Some of them have even given me a little bit of money and some cards.”

So, while Evans watches his beloved Habs battle the Vegas Golden Knights, the staff at Sobeys will learn to carry on work without him.

“It’s a major loss to our store,” said Blackmore. “I’ve worked 31 years with Sobeys. I’ve seen lots of people come and go. But Bobby is pretty special.”

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