By Ricky Rieckert
Hello everyone.
I’m back to recount Aurora’s history, continuing from Fox Street, E. Downer, from Lincoln Avenue and heading towards downtown Aurora.
On the southeast corner of Fox Street and Lasalle Street was the original Y.M.C.A.. It ended up being a drive-up for Merchants Bank.
The “Y” moved to Garfield Avenue and View Street on the West Side.
On the northeast side of same intersection, in the basement, was the original Tony’s Taco’s.
A friend of mine from work, Zack, turned me on to this place.
It was reasonably priced and the food was awesomely delicious.
Now, under the viaduct to Broadway, downtown, to the west.
On the south side, between Broadway and Water Street, was Hayden’s Sport Center.
On the north side, across the street was Main Surplus. John Galles worked at Main Surplus, until the owner decided to retire.
John bought the store and operated out of it, until he moved across the street, into the Old Hayden’s Building, after they moved to Aucutt Road in Montgomery in the 1980s.
John Galles was by far an icon in Aurora. He supported all youth sports in Aurora, especially baseball.
They named the Solfisberg field to John Galles Sports Complex in his name, at the Solfisburg Memorial Park, off Ohio Street, across from Dearborn Avenue.
John was a true friend and loved by many. He would not hesitate to talk, or, help anyone. You always felt welcome at his stores.
Two of his grandsons helped him on Saturdays. It was fun to talk to all three of them.
Johns wife, Emilie, passed, but he kept the store going for a bit longer.
However, John had to closed the store for good, and passed away a bit later at the age of 94.
One of the last things, I said to John, before he closed the store, for good, was: “We’ll have to get the band back together sometime.”
John smiled, as he shook my hand. He knew what I meant.
May God bless his soul.
For next week, Water Street will be the first in line.
Everyone have a nice week, and stay warm.