“Custom Cleaners and Shoe Repair has been a staple in Mount Greenwood for generations. The cleaning service at 10457 S. Kedzie Ave. will celebrate its 60th anniversary under Vince Picciola’s ownership on Friday.
“When Picciola, 87, started working at the shop in the 1950s, he had recently immigrated to the United States from Italy. Looking for something to do, he visited his cousin Tony’s shoe repair business.
“When I came from the old country, I did not speak English at all,’ he said. ‘My aunt, just trying to get me out of the house, said ‘Why don’t you go by Tony and spend some time with him?’’
“Picciola listened, and although his cousin didn’t speak much Italian, the two found a way to make it work. He started out by sweeping the floors and doing small tasks, like taking old heels off shoes. Over time, he took on more responsibilities and grew accustomed to the shop.
“Picciola married his wife, Diane, in 1965. When his cousin was looking to sell the shop a year later, he jumped at the opportunity taking ownership of the shoe shop in May 1966.
“As a business owner, Picciola said he has a simple philosophy. ‘My main thing has always been to give the customers their money’s worth and be honest. No use lying, you might get away with a lie once or twice, but never a third time,’ Picciola said.
“For Picciola, his years at the business have been extra special, sharing them with his family. His eldest son, David Picciola, grew up at the shop and has been helping run the business since graduating high school in 1987.
“Vince Picciola said his son has mastered the shoe-repair trade, even handling the ever-evolving materials and equipment modern shoes require.
“Despite changes in clothing habits, the business has managed to adapt and survive, and both father and son said loyal customers have been supporting them for years.
“‘We have quite a few that have been with us for a long, long time. One customer yesterday said she has been coming to us for about 40 years,’ David Picciola said.
“‘We are just happy to be here for 60 years. I don’t know if we can stay another 60 more, but we are going to stay as long as we can,’ David Picciola said. (Lynch, Block Club Chicago, 4/30/26)