Get to Know… John Loizzo of Tony’s Shoe Repair
What sets your business apart?
We are not a fly by night business; we use better materials and old-world craftsmanship. Each restoration project is unique in it’s own way and that is the beauty of what we do. When someone comes in I will give a straight answer – if it’s not worth fixing, I will tell you. Honesty drives our business.
Why Glenview?
This business is in my blood. My grandfather was a shoemaker in Italy and then moved to Chicago and opened a shop in Lincoln Park. I spent a lot of time in his shop when I was growing up. When I met my wife, I couldn’t believe that her father – Tony – was also a shoemaker with a shop in Rogers Park. I studied engineering at UIC and then worked for Chase for 30 years as an analyst. My father-in-law saw the building where we are now being built and thought it was a perfect location for his new shop. I joined Tony about 20 years ago in Glenview and the rest as they say is history.
You might be surprised to know …
People wouldn’t think this would go together, but in addition to being a shoemaker, I’m a gourmet cook. My wife thinks it’s great!
What’s your favorite quote?
“If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again.” Sometimes I look at something and think – how can I make this better – but then I tell myself it’s worth a try and sometimes I even surprise myself.