Wenzel’s Bakery of Tamaqua, which made its debut in Lansford about 40 years ago when it opened a branch store on Ridge Street, announced it will close its door in there today.

This week, customers and passersby were surprised to read a sign on the store window that announced the closing.

Co-owner George Wenzel of Tamaqua said the decision to close comes about a year after the sudden and unexpected death of his brother William who was a baker in the business, noting it has been extremely difficult in finding help to run the business.

He and his sister, Elizabeth Krepak, will continue to operate the Tamaqua store.