Attesting to the fact that the business enjoyed a good location and a good reputation, the list of owners is relatively short. Marge Obenza bought the Central from Lyle and Dolly Muir, then eventually sold out to Ken Van Bebber. He operated it until 1980 when he sold to Val and Fred Mund who stayed in business for only a couple of years. Marilyn Bolles took over the ownership from the Munds and ran a successful operation for the next 18 years while developing other interests in Eastern Washington, so the ownership was ultimately sold to her long time employee and now current owner, Diane Krushilnsky.
Keeping an established business in operation for this lenth of time means one has to change with the times. During the days of the Muir's, the Central Tavern enjoyed that "neighborhood" feeling. It was in the neighborhood place where you felt comfortable bringing your friends from town. It was the friendly tavern where one would bring their children for their first beer on their 21st birthday.
Probably one of the biggest claims to fame the Muir family started was the full-length shuffleboard, one of the very few on the Eastside. Tournaments were held regularly between 5 other local taverns. Unfortunately the shuffleboard lots it's public appeal and was upgraded to a set of pool tables.
The Actual bar and stools used today are the original fixtures that date back to the early beginning. You will notice them and people in pictures collages displayed in random wall locations around the currnet Centarl establishment, ranging from the 40's and 50's to today's crowd regulars. Next time you're there, you may want to take a look, especially If you grew up in the Kirkland area giving you a chance in possibly recognize a familiar face.
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