| For over 75 years Rupena’s has been a destination for people all over the city who loved the finest quality sausage, breads, and other groceries. With skills learned working in a meat market, John S. Rupena had gained the confidence and courage to open his own store at 16 years of age.
From 1925 until 1951, the store was on its original site at 2717 N. Holton Street. In 1951, Rupena’s Fine Foods was built and opened at 413 E. Center Street. The store, at 5,000 square feet, was advertised as the “finest, newest supermarket” there was.
For those who had never been to the store, they could always sample some of Rupena’s famous barbeque at the Wisconsin State Fair. Rupena’s had been a presence there for 30 years.
In 1984 Rupena’s moved to West Allis at 76th and Beloit Rd., where the family still operates the store as well as a catering business.
From the time John Rupena came to Milwaukee from Croatia at the age of 9 he was dedicated to hard work and the finest quality of foods. Those members of the community who have enjoyed his fine meats and sausages have always benefited from his presence in our city. Mr. Rupena is interred at Holy Cross Cemetey.
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