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Woozles co-founder and co-owner Brian Crocker dies at 72

Brian Crocker (photo: Woozles)

Brian Crocker (photo: Woozles)

Woozles bookstore in Halifax is mourning the loss of Brian Crocker, who co-founded the store with Ann Connor Brimer and his wife, Liz Crocker, in 1978. Crocker, who passed away this weekend at the age of 72, is survived by his wife and daughters.

Considered to be Canada’s oldest children’s bookseller, Woozles will continue to operate under the ownership of Crocker with help from the Crockers’ daughters, Suzy MacLean, who works as manager, and Catherine Crocker, who worked as bookkeeper.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that people read to their children. Donations can be made in Crocker’s name to the Chester Playhouse.

Woozles has published an announcement about Cocker on its website. It reads in part:

In 1978, Brian was instrumental in the inception and opening of what is now Canada’s Oldest Children’s Bookstore. He was so fond of books. He loved them his entire life. He knew how important it was to read to children, to read to them often, and to share the goodness of a cozy book.

It is because of Brian that Woozles has ‘the big comfy chair.’ It is because of Brian that Woozles’ staff feel like they are part of a family. It is because of Brian that the business has stood the test of time.

A celebration of Crocker’s life will be held at the Chester Playhouse on May 24 at 2:00 p.m. A reception will follow at the Chester Golf Course.