John Burkey shakes hands with Dan Madden, President of Stark Memorial, as part of the announcement that he’s joining the staff of Stark Memorial as the in-house floral arranger and also a funeral attendant. Burkey owns Quaker Corner Flower and Gifts and plans to close the business Oct. 31 after 37 years. His first day at Stark Memorial is Nov. 1. (Submitted photo)

SALEM — A long-standing Salem institution, Quaker Corner Flower and Gifts on East State Street, is closing its doors next month after more than 37 years, but owner John Burkey will take his talents in flower arranging to Stark Memorial.

“It is with much sadness that I close the doors. It has been a pleasure working with everyone in the Salem community celebrating their happy moments and grieving with them, but I’m excited to try another adventure,” Burkey said.

The change was announced Friday in a press release issued by the two businesses. Burkey founded Quaker Corner in 1982.

The florist shop will remain open until Oct. 31 and is currently having a 50 percent off sale on all decorative items in the store. Quaker Corner still will be taking orders until Oct. 31.

Starting Friday, Nov. 1, Burkey will join Stark Memorial where he’ll be arranging all floral arrangements for funerals in-house. Each obituary online at StarkMemorial.com has a link to order flowers, or call the funeral home at 330-332-5139 and ask for John. He also will be working as a funeral attendant.

“John has been a staple in the Salem community, and we are excited to have him still tend to the needs of our community by creating beautiful flower arrangements during a time of mourning and sadness. He will also be a familiar face to those visiting us,” Dan Madden, President of Stark Memorial, said.