Blacker’s keeps it all in the family

Blacker’s Complete Home Furnishings has been a fixture in Eastern Idaho for almost 37 years, and it’s now undergoing a big change.

Although Stan Cook will maintain ownership, he has made his son, Collin, the president of the family business.

“Blacker’s actually started the year before I was born,” said Collin.

He began sweeping the parking lot when he was 15 years old, working his way to the top of the company.

“I’m the only kid out of seven kids that ever wanted to work here,” said Collin. “My dad questioned that, he said, ‘You sure you want to work in retail?’ but sure enough here I landed, and this is kind of what I always wanted to do.”

Stan started the business in Blackfoot, but created another store in Idaho Falls 18 years ago.

“It’s really just the American story,” said Collin. “My dad moved to Blackfoot 37 years ago and started a furniture store. Never worked in furniture before.”

Stan and his wife Mary just began a 3-year mission for the LDS church in Uruguay. So, this could be the test before Collin becomes the owner of the business he grew up with.

“He won’t be home for a few years, so when he comes home he’ll see how we’ve done,” said Collin.

Kathy Christensen has worked alongside Collin and his parents for 20 years.

“I watched him grow up,” said Christensen.

She said it’s only inevitable that Collin makes the company his own.

“I definitely think he’ll own it some day, and I’ll probably be right beside him,” said Christensen. “He will do a fantastic job.”

Collin will run the Idaho Falls Blacker’s, while longtime employee Connie Wood will run the Blackfoot store.