Rob Prisco fondly recalls working at Prisco’s Family Market in Aurora with his grandfather, Tony Prisco, who founded the store in 1926. The Priscos, Italian immigrants, lived above the Lake Street store, gathering in one room for Sunday dinners.
The store was a significant part of life for the fourth generation of Priscos. Andy Guzauskas, Rob’s nephew and current manager, recalls playing in the store’s basement as a child while his grandmother made grocery signs. Marisa Boedewig, Guzauskas’ cousin, remembers skipping school to play games with her grandmother at the store.
In 1996, the store moved to West Prairie Street, where Marisa Boedewig met her husband through a playful plan involving a potato. Now, as the store reaches its 100th anniversary, Boedewig’s children call their aunt the “cookie lady,” and Guzauskas is the fourth Prisco generation to manage the business since 2016. The store continues to use its traditional Italian sausage recipe.
None of this would be possible without you, our wonderful customers. It brings a lump to my throat,expressed Rob Prisco during the centennial celebration.
Approximately 100 guests, including family, employees, customers, and officials, gathered despite the rain to celebrate. Rob Prisco highlighted the challenges faced by independent grocery stores, such as the federal cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Rising costs, like a $4,000 monthly increase in electric bills, add to the difficulties for Prisco’s Family Market, especially after damage from storms last year.
Guzauskas, who navigated the collapse of the Central Grocers Cooperative in 2016, shared his approach to maintaining affordable prices: It’s coming in every day, working with vendors, going to conferences, and learning new things,
he explained.
The market explores financial assistance through state grants for renovations. Guzauskas emphasizes the importance of community service as a key mission. He cherishes the chance to connect personally with customers and help them make informed food choices.
Customers, including Kevin Boedewig, mention the store as a social hub. Going to Prisco’s becomes a social hour,
he said. The community culture extends to employees, many of whom have been with the store for decades. They focus on service, from walking groceries to cars to knowing customers by name.
Longtime customers Charles and Karen Lorence value the store’s personal touch, such as ordering special items for holidays. State Rep. Barbara Hernandez appreciates the community rapport at the store, while Aurora Mayor John Laesch attributes its success to the owners’ commitment to community integration.
Kevin Boedewig praised the store’s training and employee culture focused on customer satisfaction, fostering a supportive atmosphere. Guzauskas continues this legacy by emphasizing community care and connection.