Szar’s Mens Shop, Toledo tailor, permanently closing

TOLEDO, Ohio — Szar’s Mens Shop, a family tailor of men’s clothing, will close its doors in Point Place for good later this month after its beloved owner, Bill Szaroleta, died this summer, his family announced on Monday.

Its last day will be Dec. 21 and it will be open on weekdays from noon to 6 p.m. until then to sell off its remaining stock. Customers who still have items left at the store  at the corner of Summit and 109th streets are asked to pick them up before Dec. 15 or they will be donated to charity.

Closing the store and its long history of family, tradition and dressing men in fine suits in Toledo was a “difficult decision” made in light of Bill Szaroleta’s death in August, the family said.

“Szar’s has been a part of the Point Place community for nearly half a century, and has roots on LaGrange Street stretching even further back, and we owe it all to our loyal customers,” the family said in a social media post. “You have enriched our lives beyond any dollar amount. Your loyalty has meant so much to us over the years, and we owe our great reputation to your faith in our work. It has been our honor to be there for you in moments of celebration and grief.”

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Szaroleta inherited the store from his father to not just continue to the family tailoring business, but maintain its reputation of reliable artisanship.

Customers also spoke highly of Szaroleta’s qualities beyond his craft, noting the warm atmosphere of the store.

The Szaroleta family said they are grateful for the business’ customers’ over the decades.

“We cannot thank you all nearly enough for your business and friendship. We have received a truly unbelievable amount of support during this difficult time. Bill and John “Jas” would be so appreciative. We could not have done this without you. Thank you so much.”