(L-R) Attorney Baiers Heeren handled the closing for new owners Thom and Jelena McAleer and former owners Maureen and Michael O’Phelan. Photo courtesy of Thom McAleer 

Cascade Lodge, one of Cook County’s iconic lodging and eating establishments sold recently. As one chapter ends, another begins. Michael and Maureen O’Phelan sold Cascade Lodge on June 12 to Thom and Jelena McAleer, who are from Alaska.

Conducting the closing was North Shore Title under the direction of Baiers Heeren.

While living in Alaska Thom was a manager and consultant for the Alaska Group of Lodges and was actively engaged with the state’s tourism bureau.

Jelena McAleer operated a restaurant consulting business and has received several awards in the category of best diners. This promises to be very exciting for locals who dine at the Cascade.

Michael and Maureen O’Phelan purchased Cascade from Gene and Laurene Glader on May 10, 2004. Opened in 1927, Cascade Lodge and Restaurant has been one of the premier family resorts on Lake Superior. The O’Phelans made many changes through the years, but one of the biggest was to the restaurant, updating the interior and the menu.

The O’Phelans proved to be leaders in promoting the region and being a part of the community, as well as prominent advocates of a plethora of high school sports, plays, and other activities that their children took part in.

Following the close of the sale, Maureen O’Phelan said, “Michael and I have lots of kind words for the new owners! They are experienced in our industry, and we firmly believe they will be a great addition to Cook County.

“Michael and I are going to take some time off to contemplate our next adventure! We are relocating to Stillwater, Minnesota. We will dearly miss our beloved Cascade and our guests, many of whom became friends.”

Minnesota Resort Sales, Daniel G. Houle was both the listing and selling agent for this sale.