Michael “Ace” Allegretti, renowned for his Italian sweets at Allegretti’s Bakery in Norridge, passed away last week at the age of 74. Known for his generosity, Ace dedicated his life to his craft, working at the bakery at 7717 W. Lawrence Avenue until his final day. For 64 years, Norridge residents have visited the bakery for delectable treats like chocolate donuts, pound cakes, and zeppole.
The Allegretti family plans to carry on Ace’s legacy by continuing the bakery operations, honoring its founder, who first opened its doors in Chicago after serving as a U.S. Army cook during World War II. Allegretti’s Bakery became a staple for Italian pastries, thanks to Ace and his family, who adhered to fresh, quality ingredients and excellent customer service.
“Mike was the most generous person in the world,” said Linda Ahern, Ace’s sister. “He was very dedicated to the bakery and his life was there, but he enjoyed the people.” More than 3,000 people expressed their condolences on social media, and the Norridge Police Department will provide support at his funeral services.
Ace was famed for his “crack” chocolate donuts, featured on Chicago Fire and WGN-TV’s Chicago’s Very Own. He and Ahern often experimented with their father’s recipes, discovering missing ingredients intentionally left out by him in case of theft. This endeavor kept the bakery’s offerings vibrant—from cupcakes and cookies to cheesecakes and breads.
Linda Ahern proclaimed, “The bakery will go on. We are all dedicated to our father’s legacy until we’re gone and hope that the next generation will take over.”
Angela Vitale, a longtime customer of over 50 years, fondly remembers Ace as a dear friend who catered to her family’s needs and employed her relatives. She admired his artistry in creating pastries reminiscent of those in Palermo, Italy. She recalled his compassion when her husband, Sal, passed, highlighting his generosity and neighborly spirit.
“He’s like an artist to me,” Vitale said, recalling the elaborate cake he crafted for her daughter’s wedding. Her granddaughter, who worked at the bakery, regarded Ace as a grandfather figure. “He embraced my family as his, we all loved him for the person he was.”
Ace’s generosity extended beyond baking. He participated in festive occasions, dressing as Santa for family gatherings and as Zeppole, a clown, for birthday parties. Linda Ahern shared an endearing story of him surprising her daughter with a swingset after a neighbor’s refusal.
Vitale fondly recalled purchasing dozens of cannolis while Ace greeted her warmly from the kitchen, saying, “To us, he had a big heart. I’m going to miss Ace, but he went to join his buddy, Sal, probably having an espresso and a cannoli now.”
Michael “Ace” Allegretti’s wake is scheduled for Tuesday, August 11, from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Cumberland Chapels, 8300 W. Lawrence Avenue, Norridge. A funeral mass will follow on Wednesday, August 12, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Eugene Catholic Church, 7958 W. Foster Ave., Chicago.