Ettore “Andy” Galeazzi, 88, passed away peacefully on June 19, 2025, surrounded by his loving family in his home in Ponte Vedra, Florida.
Andy was born on August 15, 1936 in Imperia, Italy to Benvenuto and Anna Galeazzi. He bravely immigrated to Long Island, New York on his own at the young age of 19 with no English proficiency to pursue the “American Dream,” which he proudly achieved and much more.
Through his strong work ethic and perseverance, Andy managed to go from washing dishes to opening his own small pizzeria in Commack, New York, then progressed to opening a larger Italian restaurant and pizzeria on the main street of Islip called Andy’s Italian Kitchen. He had an innate ability to connect with people of all ages and make them feel comfortable and at ease. He was committed to providing quality and memorable experiences for all his customers, many of whom became dear friends. After over 30 years of service in the restaurant business, he sold Andy’s Italian Kitchen and retired in 2000.
Andy was a vibrant, endearing, and deeply caring individual with a comical personality who will be greatly missed. He made such a profound impact throughout his lifetime that random people he encountered still recognized him from Andy’s Italian Kitchen over 20 years after his retirement. He found great joy in spending time with his family, especially his step-grandchildren, and he was passionate about gardening, creating a beautiful environment, helping others, and fostering the best ability in people, as he strongly believed that if he could make it then anybody could.
Andy is survived by his spouse, Zenaida, of over 26 years; his stepchildren, Lindsey (wife, Arah), Jhunnie Lynn (husband, Mike) and Junella (husband, Ely), his step-grandchildren, Arkhen, Andrei, Skarlett, Seth, Samuel, Nathaniel, Elijah, and Isaiah; and their family dog, Astor.
Andy’s legacy of love and service will continue to resonate through his stepchildren, step-grandchildren, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him.
A Visitation will be held at Ponte Vedra Valley on Monday, June 23, 2025 from 4-6 pm. A Funeral Mass will be held at Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at 2:00 pm, followed by a Graveside Service at Ponte Vedra Valley.