The Little Bow Continuing Care Centre in Carmangay has officially closed.

People in the community southeast of Calgary have been fighting the closure since Alberta Health Services made the announcement in July.

The centre has operated in Carmangay as a medical facility for 54 years and most recently was a long-term care centre for people with dementia.

The last two patients were moved to another facility on Wednesday.

"These people are like your family," said Mayor Kym Nichols.

"It's more than just moving them to another facility."

Village's future

People in the community are also concerned about the economic impact of the closure because it was the biggest employer in the village, providing jobs for about 40 people.

Sue Dahl, manager of the local hotel and bar, said her business will suffer.

"That hospital employed half of my customers.… If it's not open and there's no work there, no work in this town, this bar is not going to survive," said Dahl.

"I think as far as government goes, they're signing Carmangay's death warrant."

Alberta Health Services has said the facility requires upgrades that are too costly.