GRAND RAPIDS – The founder of a well-known chain of bakeries in the Grand Rapids area has died. Arne Fahlen was 84.
With partners, Fahlen created Arnie's Bakery and Restaurants. The first location was in Rockford in 1972. There now are four in and around Grand Rapids, and Arnie's baked goods are also sold in stores.
Fahlen's family says he died Thursday from illnesses related to cancer treatment. He was born in Sweden and lived in Chicago before moving to Michigan.
Three sons now run the business, although they say their dad always stayed involved. Erik Fahlen tells The Grand Rapids Press (http://bit.ly/1xOA24X ) that his father was respected because he always "expected the best" from his staff.
