After 44 years, a Kalamazoo dining destination will be closing their doors. The Great Lakes Shipping Co. will serve its last customers and permanently close June 30. The restaurant made the announcement on social media Saturday.

The owner sites dwindling business and a changing climate for dining out. Peter Cotter began as waiter while a student in 1974. Cotter moved around the state a few times before returning to the restaurant in 1981 and purchasing The Great Lakes Shipping Co. in 1988. The property is being sold and the new owners are not planning a restaurant for the property.

Many longtime residents and customers have taken to social media to share their memories of first dates, engagements, birthdays, great food and more.

 

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