MIDDLEVILLE, Mich.– There are many reasons to be thankful this holiday season. One local businessman is thankful for the chance to live the American dream. And, he’s introducing his German heritage into one small West Michigan town, one pastry at a time.
Herbert Welz had a vision for this tourist area around Gun Lake and opened Stickmann Baeckerei, located at 11332 W. M179 Highway in Middleville.
“It’s just something we don’t have besides in bigger cities and I thought Gun Lake would be the perfect area,” said Welz.
Welz moved to Germany as a young teen where he spent several years working in a bakery. He wanted to bring that authenticity to West Michigan.
The local support is crucial for small businesses. Stickmann Baeckerei does what it can to give back to its neighbors.
“Everything we have done throughout here was locally,” said Samantha Gilliland, general manager. “From our camera system, our computers, to our cabinets. It was all pretty much done on this street.”
The bakery hopes others realize that importance of shopping and dining local.
“Reality is, if you have a dream, always follow the dream,” said Welz.
“I’m not a college graduate but a lot of common sense and hard work does the job also. I think everybody has that opportunity here in America. You still are in the land of all opportunities.”
