WAKARUSA, Ind. -- The owners of Cook's Restaurant in Wakarusa have put the business up for sale and say they will be forced to close the doors starting in 2025 if no one purchases the restaurant.

"We have considered it a huge privilege to run Cook's restaurant this past year. We have thoroughly enjoyed our wonderful staff and the relationships we've built in the community and for that we are very thankful," owners Jeff and Krista Burden announced online over the weekend. 

"We are sad to announce it is not something we will be able to continue to do. So, unless someone comes forward to purchase it and resume operation, we will be closing in early January and auctioning off the building."

The Burdens say that while they have enjoyed the adventure of running the business, that adventure is coming to an end.

"We have taken it as far as we can and would love to see it continue for our town," the Burdens said. "Facebook is the best way to get the word out prior to auction but it is not the forum we will use to speak specifically about any transition. Feel free to contact us directly if you or someone you know has legitimate interest and we will be happy to speak with you."

Cook's first opened in August of 1971 and has been a staple of Wakarusa for the last half century. 

We will update this story as the closure timeframe of early January approaches.