After 40 years, a Havertown icon, Testa’s Bakery, closed its doors Dec. 31, writes Peg DeGrassa for the Daily Times.

“Testa’s has been a part of our family celebrations for as long as I can remember,” Adele Ilisco of Springfield said, dabbing tears from her eyes as she embraced Janis Testa in a farewell hug.

Customers near and far poured into Testa’s Bakery during its final week to get a final taste of Testa’s cannoli, zeppoli, Italian Rum Cake, and other legendary baked goods.

The Brookline Blvd. bakery was opened in 1983 by Lou and Janis Testa of Media. 

Lou has worked in neighborhood bakeries since he was 16.

He cooked the cream for baked goods at the Haverford Pastry Shop at 63^rd and Haverford Avenue and decided the time was right to open Testa’s after the pastry shop closed.

Lou baked 4:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. while Janis handled the front counter, taking orders and helping customers.

The 47-year couple was surprised by the outpouring of support.

 “Since we announced our closing, people have told us that we’re a Delco institution and that there is no place else like our bakery.

Read more about the closing of Testa’s Bakery in Havertown at the Daily Times.