Longtime retailer named Grand Marshal of Mendota parade

The Grand Marshal of this year’s Mendota Sweet Corn Festival Parade was a clothing store operator for many years.

Mitch Kaleel opened Kaleel’s Mens Wear on Illinois Avenue in Mendota in 1962. He got interested in retail from his father. Kaleel’s at one point had 95% of its stock made in America. Mitch closed his store and retired in 1995. The building is now Pro Care Home Health Services.

The 87-year-old Kaleel will preside over the Sweet Corn Festival Parade on Sunday, August 14th.