Local barber reflects on friendship with legendary Lou Holtz

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- After coming over from Italy at 22 years old, 87-year-old Armando Femia built an impressive career and clientele cutting hair in South Bend. 

Among his clientele, one of his favorites was legendary coach Lou Holtz. 

Armando was recommended to Holtz when he first moved to South Bend in 1985. 

Armando says the coach was always in a hurry throughout his 11-year run with the Irish and he quickly learned not to ask Holtz the wrong questions after he once stormed out mid haircut. 

After about two or three silent haircuts, the two were able to make amends and go on to build a friendship that would last years. 

Armando says, "He said Armando you’re the best barber I ever had. He said I went all over the place. You know I travel you’re the best barber ever had. I said coach why didn’t you tell me when you were in South Bend that I’m the best because I didn’t wanna make your head too big. That’s Lou!”

The two friends kept in touch till the end, with Holtz coming in for one last cut ahead of the Texas A and M game last September.