Long-time confectioner Tom Lagomarcino passed away last Saturday at the age of 95. He, together with his family, ran Lagomarcino’s, which dates back to 1908. The company currently operates two retail confectionery and ice cream shops in Moline, Ill. and Davenport, Iowa.

 

The Lagomarcino confectionery shops developed a reputation for handmade chocolates, hot fudge sundaes and traditional ice cream parlor treats. The company has received numerous accolades for its products and venue, including the National Geographic Traveler magazine dubbing Lagomarcino’s in Moline as the world’s best old-fashioned ice cream store as well as the James Beard Foundation presenting the company a Classics Award in 2006 for a family-owned business having an impact on the community.

 

A recent Quad City Times article noted that Tom, who worked in the business since he was a youngster, "welcomed customers into Lagomarcino’s with a smile, calling them 'my friend,' treating them with sweets and entertaining them with Big Band music along with his witty and wise sayings."

 

Tom is survived by his wife, Betsy, and six children. In 1981, Tom's daughter, Beth Lagomarcino, joined her parents in running the business. She was later joined by brother Tom Jr. and her sister, Lisa, all three of which continue to operate the Moline as well as Davenport stores.

 

Three years ago, the company celebrated its 100th anniversary with a block party. Tom greeted more than 2,000 people who attended the event, dishing out ice cream in his traditional cheery manner.

 

Lagomarcino’s was featured in Candy Industry’s June 2009 issue.

 

Services were held today at St. Mary’s Church in Moline and he was buried today at St. Mary’s Cemetery in East Moline, Iowa.

 

For more information, visit www.lagomarcinos.com.