Updated at: 11/20/2009 1:20 PM | KSAX.com
By: Anthony Kiekow
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Local Convenience Store Owner Picks up Pieces After Fire Destroys Community Staple

 "You're just crushed. It's like losing a family member or your home," said Aeikens.

The heat of the fire scorched beef jerky, charred Cheetos and melted pop cans.

Aeikens believes the fire may have been the result of an electrical problem.

"An electrical socket behind the cooler may have caused it to overheat," said Aeikens.

Kelly and his family have owned the store for 8 years. "My kids, parents, my wife and I work here. We've spent a lot of time here over the years so it's just devastating," said Aeikens.

 But through it all Aeikens is keeping his sense of humor. "We sell Flaming Hot Cheetos, so I joked that the Flaming Hot Cheetos just got too hot," said Aeikens.

Aeikens estimates there was around $100,000 worth of damage from the fire.

Once the insurance adjusters settle with Aeikens he hopes to rebuild the store.

"I'm not sure if structural damage will keep me from rebuilding here, but I definitely plan on rebuilding," said Aeikens.

Written for the Web by Anthony Kiekow.

akiekow@ksax.com