W
est Bend, WI - A look back at the history of the Pinewood Neighborhood Shopping Center on the northwest corner of Main Street and Park Avenue reveals a rich past. The 7,332-square-foot parcel was once home to Park-Way Frozen Custard.
The property has changed hands several times since its purchase by RE Investment Properties in 1996. Ron Gundrum owned the lot until it was sold to Michael and Kelsey Bardenwerper of Kewaskum on October 25, 2021 for $840,000. The entire commercial lot spans 57,499 square feet and sits on 1.320 acres.
In 1946, Roland Jaeger returned from World War II and opened a custard stand and restaurant called Park-Way Frozen Custard Drive In. It was initially located on the north edge of town, near West Bend City Park. The business was known for its milk, deli, and indoor service. Customers could also enjoy drive-in services.
The Park-Way was a staple in the community, with many residents having fond memories of visiting the location. Kevin O'Meara recalled buying milk at the store on Sundays, while Doug Gonring remembered running errands to buy milk for his grandmothers. An advertisement from 1957 showed Don and Jerry Vander Heyden had purchased the business from the Jaeger Brothers.
The Park-Way underwent several changes over the years, including a remodeling project in June 1961 and the addition of a canopy for drive-in customers. Business at the Park-Way included a delicatessen, catering, inside restaurant, and drive-in services. Customers could enjoy car hops, indoor seating, and carryout fried chicken.
The north end of the lot was once home to a mini-golf course, which was later used by Ted Lauck Chevrolet for storing new cars. In 1972, the Park-Way became the Village Inn Nightclub, featuring live music, dinners, and cocktails. The corner lot was later a bar called Thomae's.
In 1988, Jerry Vander Heyden opened Jerry's Restaurant & Park-Way Catering at 817 S. Main St. Ron Gundrum purchased the building in 1996 and added another addition before selling it to the Bardenwerpers in 2021.
