In Memoriam: Lifetime Red Bank Resident, 63-Year Fire Department Member, Louis Galassi, 93

Lifetime Red Bank resident Louis Galassi passed away on Monday, Aug. 14. He was 93.

Born and raised in Red Bank, Louis graduated from the Red Bank school system. He joined the U.S. 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 long-time 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, and was especially known for his delicious meatballs. Rena was the love of his life and it was love at first sight when they met, and 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, in 1960; his parents, Pietro and Angelina Galassi; and his brothers, Sammy and Peter Galassi.

He is survived by: his wife, Catherine “Rena” (nee: Webb); his children, Lou-Ann Howell and husband David, and Rose-Ann D’Andrea and husband Paul; three grandchildren, Heather Obrochta and husband Joseph, Ryan Howell and Kimberly D’Andrea; his 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.

Visiting hours were held on Thursday, Aug. 17, from 3 to 7 p.m. at the John E. Day Funeral Home, Red Bank. The funeral service will be held on Friday, Aug. 18, at 11 a.m. at Tower Hill Presbyterian Church, 255 Harding Road 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, PO Box 8622, Red Bank, NJ 07701.

— Edited obituary prepared by family via John E. Day Funeral Home