San Gavino: Farewell to Kikki Pilloni, the shoemaker-jester

He left us suddenly, leaving a great void and great sadness in the entire Sangavino community .

Thus Francesco Pilloni, known as Kikki, known to all as a shoemaker and as the ever-smiling and ironic mask of the Sangavino carnival, died yesterday from an illness that left him no escape .

Mayor Stefano Altea remembers him: «As a municipal administration we express our deepest condolences for the passing of dear Francesco Pilloni, known as Kikki, a person esteemed and loved by our entire community. Kikki Pilloni was a point of reference for our town, with his commitment, his dedication and his constant presence in the social and cultural life of San Gavino Monreale. His passing leaves an unfillable void in the hearts of those who had the honor of knowing and appreciating him. In this moment of great pain, we embrace his family and loved ones with affection, sharing their mourning with deep emotion».

Every year Kikki Pilloni prepared a carnival mask involving people and starting from scenes of daily life . For him the mask was synonymous with joy and a healthy irony.

He had his shoemaker's shop in Via Umberto for a lifetime and repaired the shoes of entire generations of Sangavino residents .

Many remember him with affection and incredulity, like Antonio Garau, president of the cultural association 'Sa moba sarda': «Ciao Kikki, dear friend of always. I want to remember you like this, in Dona Maxima, explaining to visitors, especially children, the use of your tools, the secrets of your ancient profession of shoemaker. You left us suddenly, perhaps so as not to grieve us too much, because you were the enemy of sadness and the king of joy. With you, a good man leaves, an important part of the Sangavino community. We will miss you Kikki. Rest in peace».