Cruz Ferreras writes:
The end of an era. Are you hearing that often lately? I am. A bit too many ends of eras.
Yesterday was a rainy day. My husband realized that his rubber rain boots have a puncture that lets water in the foot-bed. He said he thought he needed new boots. I said he should take them to Mr. Mondello first, because he would most likely find a way to plug the leak with melted rubber and extend the life of the boots for at least one more Autumn. And for just a few bucks.
Today a friend texted me news that due to Covid-19 Mr. Mondello took an early retirement at 93! A proud veteran, Mr. M. was always eager to share his background with customers at his cobbler shop. He has an unassuming sense of humor and the solid presence that 90 plus years of a productive life gives a person regardless of physical strength or frailty. Mr. M. looked like a solid man behind the counter. After a little chat he would ask for a very brief description of what was wrong with your shoes:
I need to stretch them.
I need the soles re-glued.
I need more holes on the straps.
Check!
Check!
Check!
I need rain boots plugged…no Mr. Mondello’s shop. No check. No apprentice to take over the shop, I bet. That’s too bad. One more win for the vortex of throw away culture we get swept into.
I wish Mr. Mondello the best and healthiest of retirement. He has earned it. A town needs a cobbler. We had as good as they come.
Cruz Ferreras thanks and best wishes in retirement for Mr. Mondello September 2020
Message and all photographs this post by Cruz Ferreras. The photographs were taken in July 2018.
Awww , hoping Mr Mondello , gets well soon .
I so loved going in with my shoe or purse repairs and listening to his stories or reading his articles about his time serving our country!
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A fixture downtown for many. Thanks for adding and I edited the title. He’s retiring.
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A bright spot in this community, truly a local treasure.
Enjoy your family who take such good care of you.
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Two years ago I thought my 40-year-old classic leather golf bag had reached the end of its useful life… but someone suggested that I see Mr. Mondello and that he could probably fix it. He did…. whistling while he worked, Mr. Mondello riveted the leather strap stronger and more durable than ever!
It was also interesting to chat with him about his Navy experiences and the numerous photos/articles on his wall. Thank you for your service to our great country, Mr. Mondello!!
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So sorry to read about the closing… that shop was indeed a go to place that will be missed by everyone who went there multiple times or even just once. Enjoy the rest of your life, Mr. Mondello!
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