ROCK HILL, S.C. — A Rock Hill tradition is coming to an end this weekend, as a 98-year-old war veteran known for making the best barbecue in town will hang his apron up for good.
Eyewitness News reporter Greg Suskin stopped by Pete's Barbecue Friday, where crowds were already in line for a final taste.
"We've been coming here for a long time, 40 to 45 years," a longtime customer said at Pete Wheele’s house.
The place on India Hook Road was packed with vehicles, and the wait for a carry-out order could last one to two hours.
"I got introduced to it and I've been hooked ever since,” customer Francine Leopard said. “They're just as friendly as they could be."
"Since I was a little girl, I remember coming here,” customer Maria McKee said. “It's the best barbecue I've ever had, and that's what makes it worthwhile."
Wheele has been serving barbecue since 1963.
"It's nice to know that you have something that you can share with other people," Wheele said.
Customers are more like family, and that's why it's sad for Wheele.
"We're grateful to each and everyone, who's ever been here, and we always will be," Wheele said.
The formula for his barbecue sauce may stay a secret, but the formula for his success is universal.
"You treat other people like you like to be treated yourself and you'll never go wrong," Wheele said.
Pete's will be selling barbecue on Saturday and Monday.
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