After 67 years in business, Dante’s Modern Auto Top in Stockton, CA is preparing to close its doors for the last time. Owner and operator Ronnie Giovacchini, a second-generation auto trimmer who inherited the shop from his father, says business is good, but it’s time retire.
He explained to local newspaper The Record:
“I have plenty of work, but I just don’t want to work no more,” he said Friday at the shop at 204 N. Grant St. in downtown Stockton.
“I just want to thank everyone who ever walked through these doors. There are so many people who supported us.”
“I know my dad would like to thank everyone, too.”
Steve Spatola, a Stockton resident who collects and restores classic cars, is one of those customers. Dante’s provided upholstery work on several of his hot rods, including prize-winning 1967 and 1968 Cougar XR7s.
“It’s kind of a landmark for guys who are in the collector car business,” he said Friday.
So what kept Dante’s customers coming back?
“Talent, quality, knowledge – all that stuff – just doesn’t grow on trees,” Spatola said. “You know you’ll get the quality of work you expect.” [more]
Ronnie, now 65, learned how to sew at age 15 and has been putting that skill to good use ever since. In fact, he still uses the same sewing machine that he learned on and even plans on taking it home with him after he retires.
Please join us in wishing Ronnie a happy, healthy and fulfilling retirement. Best of luck in all of your future endeavors Ronnie!
[photo via The Record]
best of luck with your retirement Ronnie, I hope i get to one day
Enjoy your retirement Ronnie, you earned it.
Still 32 years to go.
I can`t think of selling my machine to.
It just so nice to make new things.
Gr Jeffrey
Looking thru a packet of recipts from the street rod I bought and there is a 1980 reciect from Dante’s for my seats. They are still great….that is nearly 40 years.