Louis Galassi, 93, a lifelong resident of Red Bank, passed away peacefully Aug. 14, 2023.
Born and raised in Red Bank, Louis attended and graduated from the Red Bank school system. He joined the United States Army in 1951 and served during the Korean War, earning a Bronze Service Star.
Louis worked for the Borough of Red Bank for many years and was a 63-year member and volunteer with the Red Bank Fire Department Union Hose Co. Louis was also a longtime member of Tower Hill Presbyterian Church in Red Bank.
A quintessential Italian-American gentleman who loved the melodies of Frank Sinatra, Louis was the devoted patriarch of his family. He enjoyed his time in the kitchen, cooking amazing meals that were relished by family and friends; he was especially known for his delicious meatballs.
Rena was the love of his life and it was love at first sight when they met. They carried that love throughout their 68 years of marriage, delighting in a spin across the dance floor whenever they could. Selfless, generous, kind, humble and caring, Louis had the biggest smile to warm your heart. He enjoyed tennis, skiing, boxing, movies, heading out to the stores and was fun to be around.
Louis was predeceased by his infant son William Galassi (1960), his parents, Pietro and Angelina Galassi, and his brothers, Sammy Galassi and Peter Galassi.
He was the beloved husband of 68 years to Catherine “Rena” née Webb; best dad of Lou-Ann Howell and husband David and Rose-Ann D’Andrea and husband Paul; beloved Pop Pop of three grandchildren, Heather Obrochta and husband Joseph, Ryan Howell and Kimberly D’Andrea; devoted Gaga of three great-grandchildren, Sage, Brody and Owen Obrochta; caring uncle of Debbie, Peter, Gina, Lynn and Bill; and brother-in-law of Ginger Galassi and Mary Galassi. He also leaves behind his cherished grand-dogs, Zac and Gus.
Visitation was Aug. 17 at the John E. Day Funeral Home, Red Bank. The funeral service was held Aug. 18 at Tower Hill Presbyterian Church in Red Bank, followed by burial at Fair View Cemetery in Middletown.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Louis’ memory to the Red Bank Fire Department, P.O. Box 8622, Red Bank, NJ 07701.
This article originally appeared in the September 7 – 13, 2023 print edition of The Two River Times.
