Early demolition work has started on the C.L. Gougler and Machine Co. buildings on Lake Street.

The buildings are owned by Furukawa Rock Drill USA, which no longer uses the old factory or headquarters buildings. The factory itself numbers about 65,000 square feet. Both buildings have been vacant for years.

Interior demolition work is under way at the old factory to prepare it for the wrecking machines. The city recently issued demolition buildings for both buildings.

• Gougler Acquisitions Corp., demolish front and rear buildings, 805 Lake St.
• Gougler Acquisitions Corp., demolish old armory, 717 Lake St.

Some pieces of the old headquarters building were donated to Ron Burbick for the restoration of the old Kent hotel.

Jeff Crane, president of Furukawa Rock Drill USA, said he plans to invite former workers at the Gougler plant to watch on the day the factory's massive smoke stack is torn down.

"The retirees want to watch this," he said.