Mission Mountains Mercantile Destroyed by Fire - The Community Remembers

SWAN VALLEY - The Mission Mountains Mercantile (Merc) and Swan Valley Real Estate office were destroyed by fire in the early morning hours of May 18. No one was injured and the cause of the fire is under investigation. The structure has been determined a total loss.

At approximately 12:22 a.m. a fire was reported at the Merc on Highway 83. The Swan Valley Fire Department was dispatched to the scene. Swan Valley Fire Chief Randy Williams said that about a third of his personnel did not get the 9-1-1 page and were reached via phone. They had personnel on scene in 16 minutes.

"That response was very impressive," said Williams. "For volunteers to wake up in the middle of the night and be coherent enough to do what they did was impressive."

When fire personnel arrived on-scene the blaze was at the back of the store but quickly moved to the front of the structure. Chief Williams had a Type I engine protecting the two large propane tanks on the north end of the structure. He also had an engine protecting the smaller propane tank for the generator on the south end of the Merc.

"We went into defensive mode pretty quick," said Williams. "[When the firefighters arrived] fire was in the ceiling and smoke was flowing out of the soffits."

Assistance was requested from the Seeley Lake Volunteer Fire Department. They sent one water tender and their two engines with six volunteer firefighters to assist. Greenough/Potomac Volunteer Fire Department staged at Clearwater Junction to cover the rest of the valley should another fire call have come in.

The Swan Valley volunteers poured water and compressed air foam on the flames. Three float-a-pumps were put in a pond behind the Merc and were used to fill engines and cool the area.

Williams said initially water was an issue. They were filling the tenders at the Condon Work Station until Missoula Electric Cooperative shut off the electricity since the fire compromised it. The tenders then had to pull water out of Cold and Glacier Creeks. Williams set up a portable pump in a nearby pond to help reduce the turn-around time for the tenders. He said this solved the water delay.

Williams said, "We couldn't have put enough water on it. I told one engine to try to stop the fire at a wall in the southwest corner [to save the real estate office]. As soon as the fire hit the wall it was gone."

Missoula County Sheriff's Office Sergeant Bob Parcell agreed, "They tried to get it stopped but there was just no way. Even if they had a hydrant in front of the place, they would have needed a lot more to get that thing stopped. Once it got into the rafters, it just kept spreading."

All of Swan Valley's volunteer firefighters, except one new recruit who was out of town, and some of their Quick Response Unit (QRU) volunteers worked the fire through the night until 3 p.m. Wednesday. When they left there was no heat or smoke left in the rubble that used to be the mercantile and real estate office.

"Everybody on that department didn't want to see that store gone," said Williams. "I'm sorry we lost the buildings."

Williams praised the volunteers. "Everyone did a fantastic job and worked long, hard hours," said Williams. "Bob [Vanden Heuvel, Seeley Lake Fire Chief] sent the best people he could have. We were fighting a battle we couldn't win from the get go." Williams recognized that they contained the fire to the Merc and real estate office saving all the trees, propane tanks, gas pumps and the other structures nearby.

"It's sad. It's taken the heart out of that community," said Parcell. "That is the only place to get gas and food. Now people have to come all the way down to Seeley Lake, 30 miles one way or go 45 miles north to Big Fork. It's going to be a real hardship. Also those on the payroll, they are out of a job now too. That is a big chunk of the payroll in the Swan."

Before building what was the Merc in 1986, Len Kobylenski and his late wife Cindy owned the Buckhorn Camp. It was less than 1,500 square feet heated only with wood heat that they purchased March 1, 1979.

They built the Merc in 1986 working around the old store while they built.

"We never had a day closed [during the transition]," said Kobylenski.

The Merc was open seven days per week all year long with the exception of Christmas Day and two Easters. They offered gas, groceries, and a little bit of everything else, mostly by request of their customers. Kobylenski added his broker's office to the store in the early 1980s.

In the winter of 2013, Kobylenski and his partner Grace Siloti added a seating area to the deli. They featured paintings done in oils, pastels and acrylics and photography by local artists were available for purchase. Samples of other local art such as jewelry, cards, soaps and handmade items were also displayed.

According to Kobylenski, the Merc employed 10-12 employees depending on the season. He enjoyed hiring local high school and college students to work in the summer.

"It's been a long time. I loved doing it because the people here trust in you and you trust in them," said Kobylenski. "You give the best service you can and hope they come. You do what you can in the scope of what you created."

Watching the volunteer firefighters work so hard to save his business, took Kobylenski back to when he lost his wife.

"You could see it on the firefighters' faces. They understood what was here and knew what was not going to be here," said Kobylenski. "I saw that look on their faces when Cindy passed and I saw it on their faces Wednesday night. They're volunteers. They live this."

Kobylenski and Siloti have been overwhelmed with support from the community and other customers who heard about the fire. While it is too soon to say whether he will rebuild, Kobylenski said they will explore all options.

"Without the people here, it is just a building," said Kobylenski.

An account is being set up at Citizens Alliance Bank to benefit the Merc employees who have lost their jobs. There will also be a benefit in Condon in the next few months to raise additional funds for the employees. For more information contact Condon Community Church, 754-2499.

The community remembers...

"The Merc was part of the life blood of this community. And only gradually do we realize the extent of our loss. We sorry for Len, Grace, the employees, and ourselves. May God grant that something good will come from this tragedy." ~ Sue and Bob Cushman, residents for 26 years.

"The Mission Mountains Mercantile has provided the most active home based business in the valley and combining Len's real estate skills, along with his partner Grace's big welcome smile, customers always felt welcome. It was the most viable place for people traveling through the valley to stop for fuel, a cold drink or a hearty sandwich in addition to many unique and special gift items. In the past, the valley has been struggling to keep our business community moving foreword and the loss of our most popular anchor store presents a challenge to us all. Shopping habits will be altered, fuel gauges will require a closer look, but I am very confident in the people of the Swan Valley and their ability to adjust and adapt to our loss.

The Merc played an important role in the business community of the valley by providing a great selection of various goods for travelers and local residents. The Merc was more than just a grocery store. It was a hardware store, an art gallery, a sandwich shop, a great organic vegetable department, and a source of unique spices and ethnic food for all tastes. If you need a quart of motor oil or chain saw oil, lubricating oil, they had it. Their art display was phenomenal and a wonderful place for local artists to display their works. A professional meat cutter was on staff to meet special cut orders of any size---they even had a great selection the most popular wines. Len and Grace were very generous in donating the hamburger meat for the 4th of July celebration or any other supplies were gladly provided. Some of the other services, including providing propane for gas grills or charcoal briquette's for family gatherings and other “last minute” necessities will be on our shopping lists also. Their business was open year around and on many holidays to accommodate their customers. Many people commented that “if they don't have it, you don't need it” and if they didn't have it, they were happy to research their suppliers for any substitute available. Our community is very quick to gather around people in their time of need and we are ready to do whatever possible to help Len and Grace in what ever they decide to do. We have been very fortunate to have the Mission Mountain Mercantile and the outpouring of concern and support for them will be special and community driven, like true Montana people always display." ~ Ken Donovan, resident of the Swan Valley for 27 years, business owner and current chairman of the Swan Valley Community Council, Chairman, Swan Valley Planning Committee, founding board member of the Swan Valley Community Foundation.

"The Merc has always been the center of our life in Condon -- where we got groceries, where we saw friends and the staff and caught up with local news. We visited it almost every day: we spend most of our time in and around our house way back in the woods, and going to the Merc was what got us out and about and made us less hermit-like. We remember the old Buckhorn Camp, and how Len and Cindy expanded and improved it beyond all recognition, so that we no longer had to go to Missoula every week or two for groceries. We were, and are, enormously grateful. We are in mourning for the store." ~ Sally & Rich Thomason: Bought land in Condon in 1969, spent every summer in Condon since 1976.

"The Merc has been central to our community for 37 plus years, a "meeting" place. A place to socialize or get a hug when you need it (or not). Having the Merc meant not having to drive to Seeley Lake, Missoula or Kalispell. We really could get everything we needed. Groceries along w/ a hug! Besides being our grocery supplier, the Kobylenski's were givers too. They supported every organization or event in one way or another: quietly making donations of whatever was needed. Len has done this for as long as I remember. I remember finding out, quite by accident, that Cindy, Basia and Lenny played "Santa" every year by anonymously delivering food boxes to all the needy families. After I found out I asked CINDY if I could help? She said NO, this was something just her family liked to do. She then swore me to keep her secret. I guess it is ok to tell now.....

Grace has added new items to the Merc........ The art of our local artists. So, if you need a gift, there is something there........it helps both the artist and the consumer. Since she has a greenhouse, there are always new plants for our gardens. She emails us pictures and a great write-up of what is new and on the shelf twice a week. She has also kept us updated after the fire, which we really appreciate. She is another member of this wonderful Condon family. And, she gives great heartfelt hugs too!

Carmen has been Len's employee for over 20 years and such a big part of the Merc. They are her second family. Many times I just dropped in to say hello. When my husband was diagnosed w/ Alzheimer's, I went in just to tell Carmen and we stood in the isle and cried together. The Merc is so much more than a grocery store.....they are our family!" ~ Jan Mielke - Seasonal and then full time resident since 1974

"I remember when we first arrived in the valley over 16 years ago and was so impressed with its beauty that we wanted to buy a piece of this paradise. As we drove further north we came upon the Merc offering groceries and gas and low and behold a real estate office to boot. I think that is when we decided that this was our next adventure, remote but with everyday conveniences. The rest is history. I have heard similar stories over and over again that the presence of the Merc and all it offers as being the final reason for settling here in the valley for many of us. It hasn't even been a week since the Merc fire but know that we are all feeling the "ripple" effect of not having it here." ~ Dodie Wood

"So sorry for your loss. It was a great loss to all of us in the Valley. You could depend on it for just about everything, from milk, horse feed deli to filling up your rigs. We wish you and all your help, the very best in the big choices you have ahead of you. We are so glad no one was heart. We will certainly miss all the services you offered. " ~ Jerry and Roger Watson

"We have lived in the Swan Valley since 1982, been employed here as schoolteachers and employees of the Swan Valley Youth Academy and the Swan Ecosystem Center. The Mission Mountains Merc was a resource for us—a convenient place to buy a hunting license, get a propane bottle refilled, top off our gas tanks, purchase food items and flowers and birthday cards, etc. In addition Len would offer his notary public service for free, would cash a larger check if you needed cash and he knew you.

The Merc was a meeting place where folks might share a visit and catch up face to face in a friendly comfortable environment. Len, his wife Cindy and his present partner Grace worked hard to provide a wide variety of high quality goods and services at a reasonable price. We remember that Len and the Merc generously sponsored the Celebrate the Swan footraces and contributed gift certificates, discounts on water ice and pop as well. This is just one of the many ways the Merc contributed to our community. Len and Cindy’s children Len, Jr and Basia went through school here with our daughter and Cindy served on the schoolboard, and coached the elementary school track team. Some of our favorite memories centered around those years and the track teams. Rain, sun or wind, the Kobylenskis were there to support the Seeley Swan teams. Most of all we want to thank Len and his loved ones for working so hard for the benefit of all of us here in the Swan. And not to be forgotten the staff at the Merc, who, no matter how busy the day, would make time for assistance and a hello. Sometimes there was even time for a conversation. We’ll miss the Merc, but we have great memories to hold onto." ~ Mike Childs and Diann Ericson, Residents since 1982

"The fire destroying the Merc is a tragic loss to the Valley-- it took away a long standing business establishment, the center hub of Condon and a real general store. The Merc was the place to get groceries and misc goods, a cup of coffee, a sandwich, a newspaper, local crafts and artwork, ice, gas, propane, a people meeting place to catch up on the latest news, a place where folks bought their piece of the Swan Valley. My favorite memory is sitting in Len's Real Estate office in 1993 and signing the paperwork on my property to become part of the valley community. Also while driving home at night, the lights of the Merc were always a welcome sight as I knew I only had 12 more miles to home. Many thanks to Len, who presence touched many lives here, Grace and all the employees who have been so dedicated and worked very hard to keep the Merc open and serve the needs of this community." ~ Pat Sinz

"We have visited Swan Valley much of our lives (50 years), for we both grew up in Billings and our families vacationed in the Swans. We bought our Condon home from Swan Valley Realtors, and our then new friends (Len and Cindy), sixteen years ago.

The Merc has always been a social "hub"; a place to get needed supplies, chat with other Condon folk, or greet visitors passing through the valley. The Merc was a place to gas up, make friends, greet friends, and help friends. Whenever we would travel north to visit relatives, Glacier, or Swan Lake, that late night return was always greeted by the lights of the Merc. We always felt that we were "home" safe when we'd come around that bend on 83 and see those lights. Under Grace's creative management, the store added artisan creations and a comfy small cafe. This new "homey" feel was so inviting. And, yes, I always also loved the beautiful flower baskets, the outdoor porch, and the newsy community bulletin board. Heartfelt sympathy for the loss of our Merc., and deep gratitude that no lives were lost. We hope the Merc can be rebuilt, and want Grace and Len to know that we wish to help in any way we can." ~ Sharon and Phil Surrena, visitors for 50 years, residents for 16 years.

"Len and Grace always greeted us by name, with a smile and had time to chat. The gals working the register were masters at being able to converse while checking us out. One day I was stressed and rushing through the store. Carmen asked me where I had to go in such a hurry. She told me, with a smile, to smile and slow down before I gave myself a heart attack. :) We found the valley nine years ago while working at Holland Lake as camp hosts and decided to stay for good. The Merc was one of the places where we met new people and discovered the treasure of a friendly, down to earth community. Over the years, I would tell my family I was making a quick trip to the Merc to get something. It became a family joke that there was no such thing as a "quick trip" for me because it never failed I would run into someone I hadn't seen for awhile and enjoyed catching up with them, including Len, Grace and all the employees. It was always a surprise blessing to discover who was working that day and who I may run into, especially during the winter months when people aren't out as much as the summer. The Merc has been a lifeline to this community in more ways than one. It's a great loss that will be missed dearly. " ~ The McCleerey Family, residents for 9 years

"My husband Mark and I bought property in Salmon Prairie with Len's help in 2008, and we are getting started on building a house this year. We intend to live there full time as soon as we can. We were shocked and saddened to hear about this terrible tragedy. Len helped us find the perfect place for us to build our home in the Swan seven years ago. Len, Grace and team have done an amazing job of stocking a little of everything in such a small space and maintaining high quality with a limited customer base. We have visited several times a year and always enjoy stopping to say hello to Len and picking up whatever we need. The Merc has been such a central part of the community, I can't imagine what life will be like in the Swan without it." ~ Mary and Mark Shaw

"We, Neil & Dixie, so appreciated the convenience of having the great place, The MERC. So sorry for the loss to Len and Grace. We hope you & the employee's recuperate soon & figure out the next step." ~ Neil and Dixie Meyer

"To be able to have a local store within 5 miles from where you live is a precious gift when you live 90 miles from Rosauers, Costco and Home Depot. It saves your bacon when you run out of milk, when unexpected guests stop by or when you just don't feel like cooking and can get a frozen pizza or best of all their delicious chicken on Friday, Sat or Sunday. Let alone when you need gas and diesel in the middle of winter to plow yourself out without having to travel to Seeley Lake 30 miles away through the lakes in a winter storm. Priceless! The Merc has been a gathering place where you run into people you have not seen for awhile and where you introduce yourself to a new resident who just moved into the valley. You met people with common interest at the Merc and shared stories about the 1965 pickup truck or the Harley Davidson bike. I have heard countless people (as recent as last week) state how fortunate they were to find a gas station at the Merc as they had misjudge the distances in Montana and were running out of gas (and with sporadic reception in the Swan Valley it can be a life and death situation in the winter). To have Len in this case dedicate 37 years to the Condon community by providing a business like the Mission Mountain Merc is very appreciated, let alone what Grace has contributed and worked on for the past few years to make the Merc not just a place where people come to shop, but come to spend time together over a cup of coffee and where you now also had the opportunity to appreciate artifacts by many of the local artists. The community Christmas tree Grace initiated at the Merc last year touched so many people and is another example of her dedication to this community.

They went the extra mile to listen to, and provide, what their customer base wanted. For us that was having Rip order frozen turkey necks for our Newfoundlands, an incredible service in the middle of nowhere. The willingness to serve has been phenomenal and it is heartbreaking to see Len's and Grace's and everyone else's effort and hard work so suddenly go up in smoke. Yes, we are so blessed that no one was hurt in the fire but it is a devastating loss for the families who's income was tied to the Merc's success and to the community who relied upon the Merc's product and services. But in all this despair it is incredible to see the outpouring of support and the strong community spirit that rise up to work through this setback and help each other out. Just go to the Community hall and look at the posters of people volunteering help for those that can not readily drive down to Missoula or up to Kalispell. This is the place I call home and I am very proud of the people and our community!" ~ Helene Michael - Yearly visitor to the Seeley Swan Valley since 1972, property owner in Condon since 1990, permanent resident since 2011.

"This is not only a great loss for Len and Grace but a greater loss for the people of the Swan. We have just begun to experience the changes that are coming - just in general. Our rural Fire Dept. and Medical unit will be hit hard to maintain their first rate capability. I hope that the county will allow a quick recovery for both Len and Grace and all the rest of us that counted on the Merc." ~ Larry Dunham

"I have come to this valley for 50 years, give or take. I have lived here full time for 16 or so years now. I can remember Buckhorn Camp before the Merc as we knew it. I so remember the day Cindy passed in the store. I probably was at the Merc daily if not more and certainly a couple of times a week since living here. The Merc was a place to get groceries and more …. was also, a gathering place for social or information place for what was going on in our part of the world. This is God’s Country. They had the info for our part of the valley and was one of the command centrals during fire season with what was going on. You could not only get groceries and produce but envelopes, paper, send fax and receive, copy things, cards, gifts, fine art, books, propane, gas & etc.……...All while getting a soft ice cream to eat on their deck or chicken tenders, deep fried chicken, fries, corn dog or a deli sandwich which were delicious and ordered to your liking and specifications! All along with a drink to boot! On Sunday and another day during the week, you could get fresh baked, warm cinnamon rolls or donuts. If they did not have it, mention it to someone there and usually it would appear as you were not the only one up here who wanted it. They were so great about that. Oh, I have such warm wonderful memories. Amazing how your life can so change in the matter of 24 hours or less. Len & Grace….anything, just say the word. Meanwhile, I hold you in the prayers through this so difficult time." ~ Char Erickson, visitor for 50 years, resident for 16 years.

"Any community is not only supported by, but defined by, its institutions. In the case of the Swan the Merc was "community". It was the "source for badly needed supplies, a quick sandwich, rock hard homemade ice cream sandwiches (when no one else was looking), and all the usual items that we take for granted, don't think about, but highly value. The Merc was the source for local information on the real estate market, new puppies or kittens needing a home, or anything else that you could plaster on the wall with a tack, local source for fuel or propane, a wonderful, handy convenience. It was a place to meet and chat informally, get and share the latest, a stopping place for hunters or those fishing, and cyclists on route through God's country on their epic journeys. It was a place where we rubbed elbows with those who we would never otherwise ever see or meet. It was a community sustaining institution essential to our vitality. Len, Grace and the entire team have dedicated themselves to sustaining and supporting the Merc and through it the health of this small community. Now as we reflect on its absence we are filled with appreciation for what we have lost. Our greatest hope and desire is for its return." ~ Russ and Larrine Abolt, residents for 16 years

"My husband John and I have lived in the Swan Valley for 6 years full time ,but since 1991 as part timers. The loss of the Merc leaves a huge gap in our lives. I was there probably three times a day. The employees became our friends, people that you could count on! Len and Grace offered amazing service to this community, most of which was done quietly and without fanfare. One of my favorite things that happened at the Merc, besides being a gathering place for the community, is that at Christmas they had a giving tree where you could secretly give a gift to someone in the community who you wanted to honor. It is a very personal loss for so many! In a society where we often feel as though no one cares, I hope they know that this community cares greatly!" ~ Marcia Tapp, resident for 6 years.

"I have lived here since 1973 when the store was very small and called Buckhorn camp. I was a young schoolteacher in the valley so it was handy to go the five miles to replenish groceries and get gas. There has only been three owners since then including Len. My family has come to rely on the MMM. I have fond memories of picking up helium balloons for parties and meeting friends I hadn’t seen for awhile. I will miss looking at the captivating art and photography on the walls and the creative crafts for sale around the store. Len and Grace put their heart and soul into the store which is more to the valley than just a store. It was a place to meet friends, a place to get news of the valley, the nerve center if you will. Now it feels like a big empty spot that needs filling." ~ Colleen Kesterson, resident since 1973

"The Mission Mountain Merc has long been the lifeblood of our family during our much-anticipated annual summer visits to the Swan Valley. In 2006 I had the pleasure of meeting Len when he assisted us in the dream purchase of a cabin in Condon, often referred to by us as “God’s country”. Our contract was finalized in Len’s office on the south side of the Merc. Being from Florida, we never had any interest in bringing our Southeastern way of life to the valley. We just simply wanted to blend in with the local culture and way of life which we feel cannot be matched anywhere. The fine folks at the Merc and all of the Condon community have always made us feel like long-term residents. Our son, who is now thirteen, grew up spending every summer in the Swan. Our families greatest memories, including trips to the Merc to purchase everything needed from a family BBQ to stocking the ice chest for a local day fishing trip or day hike, were always to be found at the Merc.

Words are not enough to express to Len, Grace and their entire family how sorry we were to hear about the devastation of our local “oasis” and can only hope that through the grace of God and a strong local community that this business will one day thrive again." ~ Fred, Maria and Joe Fanizzi Okeechobee, Florida

"We have a vacation home in Condon. The Mission Mountain Merc was not only the place to buy groceries, local art, deli items and gas, it was the place to see your neighbors, find out the local news and post items on the community board.

The Merc was well-stocked. I nearly always found the items I needed and more besides. The staff was friendly and helpful. It was the spot that we identified as “Condon”. We are very sorry for Len, Grace and their employees. It is a terrible loss.

We are sorry for members of the community who will now have to drive a long distance for groceries and gas. It will affect the economy of Condon. We are hoping that it will be rebuilt. It was a landmark that will be sorely missed." ~ Ross and Judy Wilcox, Lincoln, Neb.

"Memories of the Buckhorn Camp and the Mission Mountain Mercantile - In the summer of 1978 we lived in one of the small log cabins at the Buckhorn Camp. The store itself was small, had a wood stove and ‘liar’s bench’, and included the post office in one corner. Tom and Dot Himes owned it at that time but the following year sold it to Len. Since then Len remodeled and enlarged the store. He also brought more reasonable prices for goods and services to the area.

We have been fortunate to have a store and gas station in our area. Our friends and family who visited us for the first time thought we lived in the middle of nowhere, and were doubly amazed to discover such a well-stocked store nearby.

Len has consistently supported the Upper Swan Valley Historical Society (USVHS) through the years. When the USVHS started selling huckleberry ice-cream after the 4th of July parade in the mid-1980s, Len donated the cones and often the ingredients for the ice cream. We estimated that amounts to approximately 7,750 cones during over 30 years of support!

He not only sold USVHS history books at the Merc, but with Grace’s foresight, also promoted local artisans by selling art, jewelry and other crafts. Thanks to Len and Grace’s entrepreneurship, our community is a better place!" ~ Steve and Sharon Lamar, Swan Valley Residents since 1976

"The "Merc" has been a part of our lives and I would say almost everyone in the Condon/Swan Valley area. We have always came here for a different array of things. Len and Cindy were always very accommodating and would attempt to stock or get whatever you requested. After Cindy's passing; Len continued with that same desire and approach. Grace had taken the Merc to another notch with the improvements that she made. Len was also always there when you needed something notarized or needed propane or whatever. He supported the community like most communities could only imagine. As a member of SVES, I can attest that they were always there for us when we needed new supplies of water or food or anything that we need to make our jobs a bit easier. Many thanks to them and we all are here for you now in your time of need." ~ Tony & Laura Quadros, residents for 22 years.

"The Merc has often been a source of fuel and food for us as well as a place to catch up with neighbors and friends. The employees were friendly & helpful. It was always a great, warm community experience there. The Merc has been a staple to the Swan Valley for years! The Merc was well stocked & carried a full line of groceries as well as a Deli and gift items. Very professional business and community oriented. Len helped many folks over the years in our community by employing them. And, Grace instituted many nice features to the store.

Obviously, this loss is great for Len, Grace, & the employees; but, it is a great loss for our community & Valley travelers as well. We are so very thankful that no one was hurt in this incident; and we are, also, so very thankful for our Valley & Seeley Lake volunteer firefighters & our Valley QRU team for their diligence, hard work, & long hours spent last Wednesday! God’s blessings to all!" ~ Carolyn and Bruce Rippy, residents for 15 years.

"When we moved to the Swan Valley in 2006, we were surprised to find what a great little grocery store we had and as the years went by it got better and better. We also found out what a great gathering place it was to see our friends and neighbors. The staff was a kick to visit with. Len has quietly supported our community in many ways and Grace has supported Len and added her own flair to the Merc too. This is a huge loss to all of us but we are hoping that it is not a forever loss and that Len, Grace and all the wonderful employees will be able to recover soon." ~ Tom and Mary Fitzsimon

"THAT PLACE CALLED 'THE MERC' When I first encountered the Merc when we moved here about 10 years ago, I must admit I had preconceived ideas about its value to the valley. Surely a small place like this could not carry sufficient items for the kitchen. I WAS WRONG!! I quickly discovered that not only did they have a huge food and hardware selection; it was the center of information for Condon. Every trip to the Merc was an adventure that could only happen in a small town like this. I enjoyed my quick conversations with Len and of course the big hug that Grace always gave me. It was and hopefully will return to be the friendliest place in the valley. The old Merc will never be outdone, even with a new building, but I’m sure the friendly atmosphere will always be present." ~ Buzz and Patricia Busby

"The Mission Mercantile:part of the life-blood of greater Condon. My daughters and I have shopped at the Mercantile since the girls were very young-during camping and hunting trips to this valley since the mid 80s. The Mercantile was a high-light of their trip because, as young children, they got to pick out some candy, or coloring crayons, cards or numerous other items which were *magically* there, in a store out in the middle of no-where! Each of the three girls distinctly remember "The man in the red hat drinking coffee," who was almost always there when we would stop in (Butch Harmon), and they still ask about him today. One particular bragging point regarding this wonderful store: I told an English lady one time who was visiting Polson that: "you can even buy English chutney at the store!" She didn't believe it, but after much insistence eventually did. I now live in the valley and the store has taken on an even greater significance. Len, Gracie and all have done a wonderful job, and I wish them the very best." ~ Lianne Petersen Gregory

" We first Met Len when they purchased what was known at the time as the Buckhorn or Buckhorn Camp. Through the years the business experienced several changes and transitions and became what we now know as the Mission Mountain Mercantile. Through the years the institution as some call it, provided good and services to Swan Valley residents and visitors while providing much needed full and part time employment . Employment which helped and enabled numerous families to remain and grow in the Swan Valley. The Merc owners Len and Grace, Family and Employees have been ready and willing supporters of the community and residents." ~ Dwayne and Pam Forder

"I am truly sorry for the loss our whole valley has experienced. It feels like the death of a dear friend. I have been a friend (always), employee (for 2 years), and patron (always) of the Merc since 1986 when I first moved to the valley. Len, his family and crew have been a bonus to this valley and we love you all dearly. Life has brought many changes to the store and all those associated with it, but through all the changes there have been perseverance and hope. As there is now. With God’s grace, Len and Grace with the whole valley supporting them will keep on keeping on and persevere through this tragedy. Len and Grace you are much loved." ~ Linda Schuff

"John and I got to the Swan Valley in 1990, and our lives were pretty well all encompassed by our school. I tell people that for about 15 years I didn't really know anyone except for Carmen at "The Merc," (and boy oh boy, that Carmen sure was a character) because when I left Guest Ranch Rd, that's where I usually went. After we had our daughters, even as babies, whenever we left GR Rd and turned left, they knew that were going to "The Merc, " and if it was Sunday, well, they knew it was "Donut Day at The Merc." Thrilling! Even as recently as a few weeks ago it was still a big deal, and now they are both teenagers (almost!) Anyway, The Merc has been a part of the fabric of our lives for as long as myself and my family have been in the Swan Valley. As many have said, it was more than just a store, it was the "hub," the "meet and greet" in a place where many of us don't get to see each other, our friends and neighbors, on a regular basis. And the Kobylenksi Klan made it a warm, wonderful, fun and beautiful place for all of us. Whatever comes next, may it bring Len and his family happiness, and if we are lucky, something great and awesome for the community as well!" ~ Colleen Harrington & John Mercer

" It was a hub - the heartbeat of the community. Through good or bad moments, you could count on seeing a happy face when you went to the Merc. We moved here in 2006. Cindy showed us the house and we hit it off right away. I even got a "fill it in" job there so I could meet some of the people in the valley. It was rewarding. It still feels odd when I go to get the mail, and I can't just pop in to see who is there. Deep sadness and loss. Thanks Grace and Len for all you have done in recent years. I do hope you are able to rebuild." ~ Eileen McDermott Ehernberger

"Though being a newbie to the Swan, only 8 years, I am a Montana local. Moving here brought huge amounts of love, friendship and a sense of community. Mostly due to the "Merc." I came to look forward to my jaunts there not just for food or supplies but for conversation and connection. Lives are changed not by large historic moments but by the day by day interactions that make the fabric of life. I have the Merc to thank for that." ~ Carol Sydney

"As we wrack our brains and remember so much comes flooding thru the mind! My husband, Cindys Father, loved going to the Merc and stocking the coolers. He and I were so very proud of what Cindy and Len did to expand the store after they came back to Montana from NY when they got married! It was amazing the amount of "things" they carried in that store! I could go on and on but that's a memory that stands out!" ~ Helen Ruskowski

"We have lived in the Swan Valley for 13 years, during which time we have enjoyed the many products and services the Mission Mountains Mercantile had to offer. We have had the convenience of buying fresh produce, dairy, meats, high quality deli items, fuel and propane only five miles away. The community bulletin board has been a wonderful source of information about activities and services in the valley. It is said, “you do not recognize the value of what you have until you lose it", and that is how we feel. Plus, Len has generously provided notary public service to customers at no charge, and Grace has focused on the quality of the fresh produce and expanded the arts and crafts section of the store. We thank you for all this, and know that we will greatly miss you, and hope you will bring the Mercantile back! " ~ Walter and Georgina Staggs