AuSABLE FORKS — A bridge that connects the towns of Black Brook and Jay is being renamed in honor of a pharmacist who served the community for nearly half a century.

The state Assembly and Senate each passed bills designating the AuSable Forks Bridge in honor of Steve Godlewski, a former town supervisor and owner of Feeks Pharmacy, which closed in 2017. The bill awaited Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s signature Tuesday evening.

“The folks of AuSable Forks loved Feeks Pharmacy not just for its convenience, but for the good conversation, advice and cheer that Steve Godlewski brought to it,” Assemblyman Billy Jones, D-Chateaugay, said in a press release. “He knew every customer by name and selflessly served his community, opening the store at any hour of the day or night if someone needed medication.

“This bridge will remind us of the joy he brought to the North Country and ensure that his compassionate spirit is never forgotten.”

At the request of the Black Brook town board, Jones introduced the bill to designate the bridge in Godlewski’s honor. Assemblyman Dan Stec, R-Queensbury, co-sponsored. Sen. Betty Little, R-Queensbury, introduced companion legislation in the Senate.

“Steve was a community fixture, respected and beloved by many,” Little said in a statement. “He owned and operated Feeks Pharmacy for more than four decades and contributed to his community in so many ways. He was very active in his parish and a volunteer for the Rotary Club, Jaycee’s and Knights of Columbus.”

Godlewski was also a former elected official. He served first as a town councilor, then as supervisor of the town of Black Brook for five years. The town board passed a symbolic resolution in March in honor of his service to the community and the town.

After selling the Feeks Pharmacy two years ago, he was hired at Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital’s outpatient pharmacy in Plattsburgh.

He died last March at the age of 75 as a result of an accident, according to Little. He is survived by his wife Audrey, sons Chris, Mike, Matt and Nick, daughter Tonya and their families.

According to the Press-Republican newspaper, the town plans to have a dedication ceremony later in the year. A date has not yet been set.