The closure of Lakeside Mall in Sterling Heights after 47 years as a destination spot for shopping, eating and socialization has stirred up fond memories for many Macomb County residents. From going to see first-run movies to shopping for new seasonal wardrobes to roaming with friends through the 1.5 million square feet of retail space spanning two floors, the shopping center seemed to have something for everyone.
We asked Macomb Daily readers to share some of their memories of the facility on Hall Road (M-59) and received dozens of thoughtful responses, along with a few flip ones. What follows is a sample of the responses, which have been edited for space and clarity. I grew up about a mile away from Lakeside Mall.
New school clothes, dresses for weddings, funerals, big birthdays, high school graduation, formal events and professional ones. I can still hear my mom whisper to my elementary-aged self “would you like to get a Mrs. Fields Cookie?” My eyes and excitement stretching to the size of one of those giant indulgences.
Speaking of indulgences, the amount of money my mom must have spent on me at Lakeside could fill a mint I’m sure. She had a way of falling in love with clothes and that was it before the salesgirl wrapped it up. Now I’m a mom myself, I understand it was not so much her love for the clothes, but her love for me.
My dad, (the late state) Sen. Douglas Carl, loved serving the people of Macomb County in the legislature. He wanted to be accessible to con.