A post on the Sluys Poulsbo Bakery Facebook page says that its owner, Marion Sluys, died May 19.

Sluys, 88, was born March 6, 1933. He and wife Loretta bought the bakery in 1966. The bakery is now run by Daniel and Stephanie Sluys. The son of Marion and Loretta, Daniel, 62, has worked there since he was 8.

Dozens of comments have already been posted on the Facebook site.

“First actual job. First real boss. Taught me all about efficiency and work order. Much love to the family,” Rebecca Boyer says.

Danni Sue says: “One of the greatest men to ever live. Rest in paradise Marion, you will be greatly missed. Thank you for everything you did for our family.”

Cheryl Jensen-Anderson says: “I first started going to this amazing bakery in the late 1960’s. And I will never stop as long as your doors are open. RIP dear Mr. Sluys! Thank you for starting this true PNW treasure.”

“I only met Marion once, but I will never forget it. He was exceptionally humble and caring, and I instantly felt like I was talking with an old friend. What a huge loss,” says Jessica Wall.

“Our favorite bakery and a wonderful part of the community. Deepest condolences to the family,” Nikki Carr says.

Gloria Worland says: “Our entire family sends condolences to Dan and his children as they grieve this giant loss. He was a pillar in the community and generous. May his soul soar in eternal light and peace.”

Famous for handmade treats, and bakery uses original recipes including Soriah Brod, Sweet Black, Norwegian Black, Farmers and Jalapeno Cheese. Other recipes from Old World Norway include Julekake, Stollen, Cardamom bread, Kransekake and Fattigmand.

They created Poulsbo bread in 1974, and it was sold internationally for more than 20 years through Franz Bakery.

A fun tradition at the bakery was it produced its own wooden nickels in 1970 for advertising and souvenirs. It would hand them out to customers who bought their children’s shoes at Sluys Shoe Shop. Today that tradition is carried on with other local businesses.