ELLIS — In October 2014, Gilbert Kinderknecht, owner of Arthur’s Pizza and Mexican Foods was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and then, nine days later, he was told he had cancer. For three years, Gilbert and his wife, Cheryl, have been working six days a week and battling these diseases.

After much consideration, due to health reasons, Gilbert and Cheryl have concluded it is necessary to reduce the days of operation at Arthur’s Pizza and Mexican Foods in Ellis. Beginning Aug. 1, Arthur’s will be closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays. They will be open Sunday, Monday and Thursday 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. and Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

“This is only the second major change in hours in our 20 years of ownership,” Cheryl said. “The necessity to reduce work hours for Gilbert is our No. 1 priority. This battle is taking a toll on us mentally and especially physically. Currently, Gilbert’s cancer is in remission and the Parkinson’s is being controlled with medication.”

“We enjoy being an active part of the Ellis community. We like working with the schools, the library, the rec, DARE program and other organizations,” Gilbert said. “That is why we decided to simply reduce our days of operation.”

Arthur’s hired several people in an attempt to reduce Gilbert’s hours in the morning but the product quality suffered greatly.

“By reducing our work days to five, the quality of our made from scratch dough will remain high since Gilbert will be able to continue making it each morning,” said Cheryl said. “And the extra day of rest will help Gilbert’s health tremendously.”

Arthur’s support and participation in Ellis events will remain strong. Contact Arthur’s if you wish to do a fundraising event, want to schedule a demonstration day or a tour. If you simply need a location for a gathering on Tuesdays or Wednesdays that can be arranged through Arthur’s Event Catering at 785-656-0541.

— Submitted