Bob Clark's to close

Havelock's oldest known business, a gift shop and former pharmacy, is closing its doors next month.

Bob Clark's is selling the remainder of its gifts and specialty items before closing at the end of April, said owner Gail Clark. She is the widow of Robert Steven Clark, who managed the store until his death from cancer in February.

"If Steve was alive, we'd still be in business, but I can't run the store and my store in New Bern," she said. "Maybe one day we can come back in here. My daughter and I really enjoy retail."

Gail Clark owns Middle Street Antiques in downtown New Bern, which she and her late husband founded in 2002.

Founder Bob Clark opened his pharmacy, soda fountain and gift shop in Havelock's Commercial Shopping Center in 1957. He relocated the store to its current home in the Trader Shopping Center off Main Street in 1963.

Steve Clark began working with his father at the store in 1975.

"Steve really did enjoy seeing people and talking to people," said Gail Clark. "He loved helping people whenever he could."

A sign in the front windows advertises items for sale at 50 percent off. Gail Clark said the sale has increased business, and the store has donated some items to the Salvation Army and Havelock Senior Center.