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Govnr's Park Closes After 42 Years Of Making Memories

By Dillon Thomas

DENVER (CBS4)- After more than 42 years of business, Govnr's Park Tavern officially closed on Sunday. Ownership cited an increase in competition and rising costs as the main factors leading to the closure.

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Owner of 21 years, Mike Plancarte, told CBS Denver he gave notice to his landlord months ago. He also made sure to announce in advance, so employees could find work elsewhere, while loyal customers knew to come while they could.

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"It has been very difficult over the past few weeks," Plancarte said. "It is definitely sad for all the memories, and all the great people that have been here."

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In attendance for the final night of business on Sunday night were many longtime customers. One couple met at the tavern, before eventually getting married.

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Other longtime visitors included Matt and Brian Tracey. The twin brothers spent the better part of a decade at the tavern for many memorable moments.

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"When we turned 21 years old, this is the place we both came to have our first beers," Brian Tracey said.

"We kind of grew up coming to this bar," Matt Tracey said.

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The Tracey's said they enjoyed going to the tavern for historical sporting events in Colorado.

"We were watching the Rockies in the World Series here. We were watching the Broncos play in the Super Bowl," Matt Tracey said. "I wrote (the memories to the owners,) and they were like, 'Hey that brought tears to my eyes.' Because, there are a lot of memories here."

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"We thank the Denver public, and the community, for all the support over the years. We will miss it," Plancarte said.

Dillon Thomas is a reporter at CBS4 and a Colorado native. He believes everyone has a story, and would love to share yours! You can find more of his stories by following him on Twitter, @DillonMThomas.

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