If you’ve been living in Columbia Heights for at least a year, you’d have to know the renowned but recently shuttered Heights Bakery on Central Avenue.  A beloved family-owned business, its founders were Ray DeShaw and his wife, Olive. They had then passed it down to their son Gerald R. DeShaw, followed by Gerald’s children, Dave Deshaw and Debbie Dotty, who became the storefront’s final owners. Having been passed down through four generations, the bakery was truly special and homey.

From 1953 until not too long ago, Heights Bakery was a staple in the community, but in the summer of 2025, they went on a short break with hopes of returning shortly. On August 1, however, the owners decided to retire and officially close the business. 

”I feel very upset because they served high-quality food sold for an affordable price, and [there were so] many flavors in one location,” Columbia Heights resident Saada Ahmed said. 

The bakery was especially popular for its glazed donuts and cronuts. Cronuts became a national trend in 2013, and Heights Bakery was quick to join in, just one of the many pastry spin-offs available fresh in their varied display case. Customers loved the simple but delicious flavor of their raised and cake donuts too, which were some of the most popular items, but there were also fried rolls, muffins, cookies and several freshly baked breads. 

“My favorite memory about Heights Bakery was coming to meetings at [Columbia Heights High] School (CHHS) with a box of donuts waiting for [the staff],” Spanish teacher Ms. Rachel Pape said.

Heights Bakery was incredibly special to so many people. My personal favorite memory is when I won a contest at my middle school, and one of the prizes to choose from was donuts from Heights Bakery, which was absolutely my favorite of all the possible prizes.

Even though the community of Columbia Heights is understandably sad about the bakery closing, we are also super grateful for the memories it provided. The smell of the fresh donuts and the smiles on the nice workers will both always be a core memory for me and countless others. Heights Bakery made the community feel special, and even if something new takes its place, as the storefront is currently vacant with the signage for the dearly departed business remaining, it will never replace the memories of delicious food made by wonderful people.