One of the oldest businesses in Chemainus is marking a special occasion today with a barbecue, music and other fun activities.
McBride’s Service, now owned by Terry Dockrill, traces its roots back to 1925 when it was the Imperial Garage built by Francesco and Maria Crucil, according to the Chemainus Museum.
Bob McBride gave the business its current name a decade later and over the years the business has thrived under a series of owners. Pat Allester managed the business for Dorothy McBride, after her husband, Bob, died in 1949. Allester and Norm Allen took over McBride’s in 1958. 
When Allen retired in 1974, Roy Bell and Jim Myers became partners in the business. Dan Myers, who had apprenticed at McBride’s took over as sole owner in 1996.
He sold McBride’s to Terry Dockrill in 2019. Since then, Puppycats Pet Emporium, operated by Terry’s wife, Linda and daughter Sam, has taken over the space next to the garage that had once been a convenience store.
Puppcats is joining in today’s celebration having recently completed a renovation.
McBride’s is located at 9616 Chemainus Road.
