Iconic ice cream stop, Dairy Freez, back in business in Essex County

Dairy Freez, an iconic ice creamstop in Essex County, is back in business after shutting down over COVID-19 concerns and the tragic loss of its owner.

"It's good to see them open again. We're just kind here to support them," John Friesensaid as he enjoyed an ice cream cone in his truck.

"It means a lot. I mean, this place has been around for a lot of years here and the community really looks forward in the summer to come here."

Dairy Freez, which first opened in 1954 and is located on County Road 34 inbetweenCottamand Essex, Ont.,is known for its frosty treats and hamburgers. It closed in March due to concerns around COVID-19.

In May, shortly after announcing a plan to reopen, it announced it would be closed indefinitely following the sudden death of owner Mike Reaume.

• Mike Reaume, owner of Dairy Freez in Essex County, dead at 62

It reopened two Fridays agoand, according to staff, it's been busy ever since.

"Ever since we opened, the lot's been full," car hop Jessica Hislop said.

"We're a family so we all come together and we're making it through and the customers make it very easy. They're just very enjoyable to serve and all the welcoming thoughts and everybody's so happy to be back at the Dairy Freez."

A large homemade sign in one of the windows made by the shop reads "Thanks for your support and business" a sentiment echoed by fellow car hop Katrin Leboeuf.

"The community's given us lots of support throughout tough times and it's given us the support we need to get through this, so it's really great and all their happy thoughts and concerns have been awesome," Laboeufsaid.

"It's just made our days better and made things a little easier."

For some, it marks the return of an institution.

Iconic ice cream stop, Dairy Freez, back in business in Essex County

4 years ago

Duration 0:55

Dairy Freez, an iconic ice cream stop in Essex County, is back in business after shutting down over COVID-19 concerns and the tragic loss of its owner. But as of mid-July, it's back open again. CBC News stopped by to speak with staff and customers, including a longtime group of friends who have been going to Dairy Freez since their childhood.

"It's local and it's a long-time establishment," said Bruce Hahn,seated at a picnic table witha group of friends.

"The ice cream is good. The help is outstanding ...you can't beat it," Hahn's friend, Colin James, added.