A story telling mural on the Leung Grocery Building honoring the legacy of the Leung’s family history in the town of Courteney.

On our trip, Marian had the pleasure of visiting her old relative Norman Leung
who was a dear friend of the family going back many years when she grew up
in Comox. Marian’s father ran a restaurant and night club in Courteney which is just
a short drive across the bridge from Comox.

Norm’s father, Leung Gang, was a market gardener who opened a store in
the small town of Cumberland in1929 to sell his produce. He expanded and opened Leung’s Grocery store in Courteney in 1950.

Upon his retirement, his eldest son Norm continued to operate the store until 2008. The store was known for his
old time feel where everyone who shopped there seemed to know each other.
He also ran a coffee and lunch counter in the store while keeping the authentic 1950’s décor.

Norm was awarded Citizen of the Year in 1986 and in 2004. He received a
special award from the BC Lieutenant Governor commemorating his lifetime
of altruistic service for the Kiwanis Club of Courteney. Norm is now 90 years
old and seems to be as sharp as ever.

Part of the gallery: Vancouver Island

Best viewed in original size