The city of Poulsbo mourns the loss of a pioneer in the downtown businesses, Marion Sluy, 88 passed away on May 19.
A post on the Sluys Poulsbo Bakery Facebook announced his passing.
Sluys was born March 6, 1933. He and wife Loretta bought the bakery in 1966. The bakery is now celebrating 55 years in business and is run by Daniel and Stephanie Sluys. Daniel, 62 is the son of Marion and Loretta and has been working in the bakery since he was 8 years old.
The bakery has become a must-see, and taste attraction for visitors and Poulsbo locals and is famous for its handmade treats which use original recipes from Old World Norway such as Julekake, Stollen, Cardamom bread, Kransekake, and Fattigmand.
In 1974, it created Poulsbo bread, which has been sold internationally by the Franz Bakery Company for more than 20 years.
Another 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.
“Marion Sluys was a hardworking, dedicated man who cared deeply for his family, his faith, and his community,” Poulsbo Mayor Becky Erickson said. “He will be missed by many.”
“Marion Sluys was a key part of Poulsbo for many years. His passing will leave a void for years to come. His work to create the Historic Downtown Poulsbo Association (originally the BIA), an association of downtown business owners, was integral in making Poulsbo the town it is today. We hope to honor his legacy by continuing the work he started many years ago to unify the downtown businesses,” Marianna Smyth president of Historic Downtown Poulsbo Association and co-owner of Western Red Brewing said.
The dozens of comments under the Facebook post show just how beloved Sluys was in the community.
“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.”
