Honoring a Great Man

What does it mean to live and do business with integrity? What is it like to impact charities in a real and lasting way? What does it mean to build community and make a difference in thousands of people’s lives? We understand these things in a tangible way because of knowing an amazing man, and we are so honored to have had his example.

On August 7th, 2012 Thrift Town suffered the loss of a great leader and friend, Brandt “Bud” Norquist, after a courageous battle with lymphoma. Bud co-founded Thrift Town, along with his wife La Vey Norquist, and brother-in-law Steve Moore, in 1972.

In over 40 years of overseeing Thrift Town, Bud proved that character and hard work really do change lives for the better. From the estimated 9,000 employees during the course of his reign, to the tens of thousands of individuals whom Bud inadvertently helped by raising over $250,000,000 for Thrift Town’s charity partners, Bud embodied and taught what unifying a charity, a community, and a crew to enrich the world could accomplish. Not believing in short cuts, he earned respect, honored loyalty, strived for growth, and exhibited integrity, while encouraging people to maintain a healthy balance of family and adventure. All of these qualities have become the cornerstones and compass of Thrift Town’s company, and culture.

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There has been an outpouring of memories, appreciation and love at the news of Bud’s passing.
We thought we’d share a few thoughts from customers.

Analuisa R: Thanks to people like Mr. Norquist we have jobs and able to survive through our money issues. I know he is with the angels.

Susan M: Thanks, Bud, for co-creating one of the best thrift shops in the SF Bay Area. Godspeed and RIP.

Mary N: He was a great person and I loved talking to him when he would come into our store #10. He remembered your name and made sure he said hi to everyone. He is loved and will be missed very much. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Heidi A: Thrift Town has always been a place where you didn’t just feel as if you were going shopping, but that you were participating in something and part of a community doing it. Thank you, Bud.

Terri P: Thrift Town was my whole life for 23 years and I am so thankful I knew Bud. I send my sympathy to all of Bud’s family.

Joanie G: Heartfelt condolences, sympathy, and prayers go out to his family. He did so much for so many. Not only have I saved a ton of money over the years by being a loyal Thrift Town shopper for the last 30+ years, but by so doing, I have also contributed to a very worthy cause that benefits people with developmental disabilities. And, back in the 90s, I also worked for the parent organization, the ARC of Texas in the administrative office, and actually had the honor of meeting him personally. Godspeed to Bud Norquist.

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Bud and his co-founders were whole heartedly committed to making an honest living, as well as helping to raise funds for charity. Bud’s passion of making a difference every day will continue to be the heartbeat and driving force of Thrift Town. Bud’s legacy lives on in Thrift Town employee and charity partner’s hearts, and together will continue to make a difference every day in his honor.

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