Buddy was a U.S. Air Force veteran. He had a love for military history especially an affinity for World War II, which led to his desire to open his own military surplus store, Old Grouch’s Military Surplus, in Clyde. Buddy was dedicated to helping veterans and was a member of the American Legion Post #47. Buddy had a deep love for his family and will be missed by all his friends of whom he had many. He especially loved the Western North Carolina Mountains and was proud to call them home.
Glance’s family said last week that the amazing store – as much a military museum as a store – would remain open. Again from The Mountaineer:
“That’s the way Buddy would have wanted it,” said Mary Glance, his wife of 39 years. “He would have been upset that we closed the store yesterday.”
As Mary recalled how The Old Grouch’s store began, loyal customers strolled in to offer their condolences and to purchase items. This time, floral arrangements from Buddy’s funeral provided an odd contrast to the mounds of camouflage clothing, dummy hand grenades and other military and hunting supplies.
If you’ve never been, it is worth the drive. More about Old Grouch’s:
We strive to deal as much as possible in real, genuine military issue gear and quality equipment for outdoor activities, emergency preparedness, and any other use. Where we cannot get the real items surplus, we always strive to get you the best product available. The Old Grouch’s is a real military surplus store in the tradition of the old 1950’s style with real military surplus, not an “Army-Navy” store full of jeans and imported junk and airsoft toys.
Condolences to the family. Happy to hear the store will continue.
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Thanks for your kind words and the great write up Jason. He will be greatly missed in the store and in the community at large. We will carry on his legacy here at the store and continue to run it like he always wanted it done- honestly, full or real military surplus, and always a fun place to visit.