Big Apple Bagels Fans Share One Last Visit

The black arm bands said it all.

George Anderson, Larry Urevig and Dennis Mahle, all members of   in Farmington Hills are mourning the loss of Big Apple Bagels in downtown Farmington. Owners Paul and Kevin Bersche , leaving the group without their regular gathering spot.

The three friends met 50 years ago, while attending St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Detroit. No one was sure exactly how long they'd been meeting at Big Apple Bagels, but it's been many years.

"We've gone through two owners," Mahle said. "It's a Monday morning ritual."

On this Monday morning, the group brought in their own chairs and a small table, along with coffee and bagels from , and sat outside in front of the shop. Next Monday, they're not sure what they're going to do.

"That's a conundrum," Mahle said.

"That's the agenda this morning," Urevig said. "Try to figure out what we're going to do for a replacement."

They also ended up delivering bad news to about 40 people who walked up to the door of Big Apple Bagels, expecting it to be open. Some asked directions to the nearest bagel place.

The group has some options, although they liked the location – and the bagels – at Big Apple. 

"We could do the DIY kick in ," Mahle said, referring to a small park located just across from the bagel shop.

"Through October, maybe," Urevig added.