John Durston, of John and Marie’s Emporium, has died at the age of 79.

Durston and his wife Marie Boyce have been active members of the Creemore community since making it their home in 1996.

The Emporium is at the south end of Mill Street, with their home and extensive gardens back toward the river. The gardens supply the plants that are used in their Herb’s n’ Things products.

John also repaired small engines, in fact he was known for being able to fix just about anything.

Since moving to the community, John and Marie have been very active in the community and frequented many activities.

They were among the first vendors at the Creemore Farmers’ Market and continued to have a booth for 18 years until retiring last year.

Durston was born in Zenda, Ontario on Dec. 19, 1937.

He is survived by wife Marie, son Tom Durston and grandsons Owen and Nolan. The funeral service to be held in Norwich, Ontario on Dec. 19.