Louis Alessi Obituary
This obituary was originally published in the Buffalo News.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Leonard Sparks
February 16, 2024
A warm person with a great heart. Pursued his dream of making the best holsters available. I remember him saying to me when he examined a leading holster, “I can make a better one” and he did. Gosh how I miss him.
Raffy Kouyoumdjian
February 26, 2018
Rest in peace Mr. Alessi.
For 22 years now I have been using one of your holsters. The guns come and go but your holster has been the mainstay.
Dan Gambino
October 15, 2017
Cousin Lou( my favorite cousin) here I am in 2017 missing you as much as ever. Thoughts and prayers that. We meet again.
April 16, 2017
Lou Made me a beautiful leather holster of exceptional quality for my WWII Walther PPK around 1980 and it was (and still is)of exceptional quality. I recently gave the holster and my Walther PPK to one of my family members in the Buffalo area and am proud to have had that holster with the gun all these years. The fit and quality were, and still are, excellent.
I am happy to see that family members are carrying on the tradition of exceptional quality holsters, and I will be ordering one for my 9mm CZ-75B.
Mike Velky
North Carolina
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January 24, 2017
Its indeed rare today when consumer products exceed customer expectations. Alessi products design and construction are in my humble opinion the very finest available to the practical enthusiast. Thank you all for carrying forward his vision. Regards. Richard Sukup, PE (Professional licensed Engineer).
Frederick Thoman
October 7, 2015
As I sit here conditioning and polishing my Alessi Kimber rig I was reminded of the phone conversation with Lou approx. 2008 when I placed my order having admired the same rig worn by my Instructor: John Benner of TDI in West Union Ohio.
In my ignorance I assumed (incorrectly) that I was simply ordering a "mass-produced" holster and failed to realize until I received it how amazing is the quality and handmade craftsmanship; that will last my own lifetime.
Lou was polite but "informative" as he schooled me in just what it took to create such a high quality product.
I mourn his loss not because i knew him but because I can see from comments how much he has meant to his family, friends.......and even clients.
I mourn his loss because his words and tone reminded me of those men i knew growing up who shaped and guided me to learn respect for others, respect for ones elders, respect for a life spent maintaining ones quality standards in a world that is trying to teach us to accept far less.
I know he is watching over you all!
He watches over me as well; in the confidence I feel each time I "carry".
Blessing and joy to your family....always!
Sincerely, Freddie
February 18, 2015
To all my family, friends, colleagues of Louie, customers, and especially to ALL of you who contributed to the Guest Book:
It will be six years since I lost my beloved husband, Lou. I'm not sure if anyone will be seeing my post, but I am writing it mostly for myself and our beautiful daughter, Alexandra.
I just reread all of these messages which I have read many, many times, and each and every time I do, there is a wailing deep inside of me. I am always screaming inside. No one can hear the screaming, just me.
They say the loss and the hurt "gets better with time". No it does not. It only changes with time.
I will always love, cherish and miss you my darling husband. Wait for me, and in the meantime keep daddy and mommy laughing as you always did. I have great comfort knowing you are with them. God has His arms wrapped around all of you.
Your loving wife...Idamarie
Carl Sumner
August 8, 2014
Best Holster I ever had. Still use it...
Jon Harbison
July 27, 2014
He is sorely missed.
John Zirpola
January 30, 2013
Hey Alex, He's always in our Prayers....He's there, all you need do is "Listen"
Alexandra Alessi
August 26, 2012
Missing you dad.. love you, Always and forever.
Patrick Fuhr
July 11, 2012
Lou will and is missed by all of us who have done business with him and his family. I have not talked with Lou in years and when I found out about his passing, I was shocked. My prayers and blessings to his family, co-workers and employees
Leonard F Dutra Jr
March 9, 2012
I, We, my family are so sorry for your loss.I had the privilase of talking to Lou many times on the phone (very much a pleasure)and have also talked to a person at the shop he called his son.Great people, and the best product on the market in my and many peoples opinion. Luck and Love to your family. I will make order at a later date.
Douglas Boyce
February 21, 2012
Dear Alessi Family, Lou will be missed by everyone he touched over the years, but his legacy will endure as he was a craftsman of great renown. I think of him every time I strap on one of his holsters.
Becky Bates
July 22, 2011
Lou - I've been using your holsters since the mid-70's; I still use the shoulder-rig you made for my 1911 .45 in 1978. It was a privilege and a pleasure to meet and know you. Best wishes for your family. It is wonderful to know your artistry will be carried on.
Bill Andrews
June 5, 2011
Lou,
I purchased one of your holsters 13 yrs ago when you convinced me that YOUR holsters were the finest around. You were right. I still use your holster and it fits my Glock as tight as the day I bought it. When I'm carrying off-duty, I KNOW it will hold up. Glad I met you. You are missed.
Hugh Williamson
May 27, 2011
Dear Alessi Family,
I am truly saddened to learn of your loss. I have used Lou's ankle holster on and off duty for over 11 years. Lou's design is unsurpassed! The velcro wore out and Lou kindly replaced it at no charge. He was a great man and his service to our country is deeply appreciated. This Memorial Day I will pray for Lou and his fellow Veterans.
St Louis, pray for us!
David Bolgiano
April 16, 2011
Dear Alessi Family:
Lou made and shipped some of his phenominal Bodyguard shoulder holsters to me and a lucky number of my colleagues while we were serving in Iraq. His attention to detail and concern or us was a rarity in this day of mass marketing and machine made junk. The holsters he sent were amazing and fit our weapons like proverbial gloves. I was saddened to just read of his death (while trying to order a new holster). May God Bless you all and know that Lou made a difference to a few special operations troops!
MSgt Alexander
February 9, 2011
Lou,
I never had the honor of meeting you, but I've used many of your holsters. Thanks for making an awesome product all the time! Thank you for your service!
Paul Ososki
October 13, 2010
It was great to spend time with Lou and share stories. I think of Lou often and feel lucky to have known him. He was one in a million.My deepest condolences to Ida and Alex. We will miss you Lou
Tom Saluzzo
May 7, 2010
When I bought my first pistol many years ago it came with an Alessi holster. From that day forward I have bought one for every pistol I own. I never had anything but the best dealings with Mr. Alessi. I am sorry for your loss and wish nothing but good fortunes for his family and company.
Michael A CROGNALE
April 20, 2010
I was deeply saddened to hear of Lou's passing. I have been a long time customer and he always dealt with me professionally and courteously. I was just getting ready to call with another order when I read of his passing as posted on the web site. I will still call in the order or place it on the website. In the meantime I will pray for his soul and for God to grant all the fine folks at Alessi Holsters the strength and courage to carry on. I know that we will all meet him someday in Heaven.
God Bless all of you.
Mike
Ira Cohen
March 14, 2010
I am Very Sorry to hear about Lou's passing. My sincere condolences to his family. About 8 Yrs. ago Lou helped me with the Best possible match for my Glock-27 IWB Holster with Extra mag.pouch (I was a newbie then & didn't know what to buy) I am Really impressed with the quality & the way they have lasted (& still in Great condition) I was SO impressed, I told my friends if they ever needed a new holster to Definitely get one from Lou Alessi. They couldn't go wrong!! Again, my sincere Sympathy to his Family & Friends.
Sincerely, Ira S. Cohen (a disabled Vietnam Veteran)
Arthur Michels
February 4, 2010
I had the greatest pleasure in not only knowing Louie, but also being taught how to make Holsters, patterns, and sewing on a Randall from him. Louie was like a father to me, coming into my life right after the passing of my own Father. I mourned his loss since finding out, and there is still a great hole there with his passing. I still make holsters the way Louie taught me too, and I now have a much greater need to make sure that whatever I produce, whether knife or Holster, is something that he would "allow to leave his shop" LOL! I miss him, the Sinatra that played while we stitched, and the great lunches... it's the little things that make a person great, and Louie was a great man, and a fantastic teacher. Arthur Michels, "Arwythur"
Dave P.
February 1, 2010
I didn't know Lou personally but had the privalage of talking to him a number of years ago when I purchased several fine Alessi holsters and a belt for my P7. These are first class products all the way and Lou was a first class guy. We're all going to miss him. I'm sure that Alexandra can carry on that great tradition. My deepest condolences to the family. I trust that he is resting with the Lord and that you'll be re-united with him someday.
B. Taylor
January 31, 2010
I was reading about Lou's marvelous craftsmanship and decided that I had to look into his work. It was then that I learned of his early passing and even though I didn't know him, I feel a great loss, for his family, his friends and all wishing to speak with the Master Leatherman. I know that his legacy will be carried on by his loving family and friends.
God bless you Lou and may he bring strength to your family. Rest in peace Brother!
Paul Alessi
January 25, 2010
Was online looking for holsters and landed on your site. I did not know the man but by judging the quality of work I can say that he had alot of character, and was unique. I hope to visit the shop one day. My deepest condolences to the family......Rest In Peace Lou
sincerly Paul
Tracy Sanders
December 23, 2009
Dear Idamarie and Alexandra,
I had the great fortune, some 15 years ago or so, to buy an unusual IWB holster made by Lou for the Browning Hi Power. Never one to discount the benefits of direct communication, I called Lou and discussed the holster's unique history. Over the years, I maintained, as many did, a friendship that I treasured and the great pride of owning such quality workmanship/artistry.
During our emails or phone calls, it was the usual banter - bragging about our wife and our children, the rigors of work, keeping a keen eye out for the bad guys and the hopes for a better America. I always hoped that Lou would find that special Ruger Flattop that he wanted but I guess such was not the case.
Please accept my condolences and my well wishes for you, one and all.
Sincerely,
Tracy A. Sanders
P.S. And, thank you America for embracing such a Patriot.
DOUG MAURER
December 4, 2009
I KNOW THIS COMES LATE,I WAS VERY SADDENED TO HEAR ABOUT LOU.THIS IS A MAN WHO DID THINGS THE RIGHT WAY.I GIVE MY REGARDS TO THE FAMILY AND GLAD TO HEAR YOU WILL KEEP HIS LEGENDARY HOLSTERS HONORING HIS TRUE CRAFTSMANSHIP. I HAVE USED HIS BELTSLIDES SINCE 1985 AND WILL USE NO OTHER.TO IDA AND ALAXANDRA,PLEASE KNOW THAT WE CARRY A PIECE OF YOUR FAMILY WITH US DAILY,AND KNOW LOU WONT EVER BE FORGOTTEN. DOUG MAURER
charlie deon
November 27, 2009
Rest in peace sir knowing that you have helped many sheepdogs watch the over the flock.
God Bless you and may your family find comfort in knowing youre in Vallhalla.
Steve David
November 20, 2009
I met you through a friend, he said I would be coming to see you for a holster at the Rochester Gun Show, you knew who I was right away when we met, you gave me a fantastic deal on my holster and showed me the very first Glock 36, that was fantastic. You were a wonderful man and I am very honored to have met you.
God Bless and rest in peace my friend.
Ross Mercier
November 20, 2009
To the family and friends of Mr. Alessi, I just want to say that I'm very sorry for your loss.
Dane Jones
November 3, 2009
To Lou and your Family,
I did not know you but I am so very sorry to hear of your passing. May God have you safe in his hands. I hope your family is doing good.
I must tell you, after reading Massad Ayoobs review of your ankle holster in 1996, I bought one finally in 1997. I have worn it practically everyday since (and I am wearing it now, even in my pajamas). What a great piece of work it is. Comfortable and built to last! I know it has many more years, but I want another.
Thank you for your service to our country (from an Army veteran).
God Bless.
Ken Sham
October 28, 2009
Thanks Lou, for not only your outstanding leathercraft, but for being a great friend to everyone who knew you. You are truly missed, and I will always cherish all the talks we had. Even greater than the holsters you made for me, the greatest thing I got from you is the life example you set by how you always treated others and how you always strived to do what is right.
Godspeed my friend!
Rich Drew
October 22, 2009
Thanks Lou. I purchased an ankle holster from you in 1988 & used it everyday for 15 years, it still fits perfect!!
Kevin Mah
October 20, 2009
My condolences to the Alessi family. With respect and thanks to Mr Lou Alessi, I am proud to use his product everyday at work as a police officer.
Cliff Selby
October 9, 2009
I offer my condolances to Lou's Family and Thank him for his services to his Country as a Veteran of Viet Nam.
Yours Truly
Cliff Selby
Frank Berry
October 3, 2009
It was a huge shock to hear about the passing of a great man. I only knew him over the phone and on email conversations. He will be greatly missed by me. for the short time I have known Lou, I feel as though I have lost a really good friend.
Adam Axelband
October 2, 2009
Lou was the best holster maker I ever came across. He even bought molds for H&K Euro P7 holsters to fulfill my special orders, even made me a custom P7 Shoulder Holster for free, so I could show possible customers.
Long before the days of on-line shopping, I could never get him to print a catalog though, he just wouldn't do it, no matter how much I begged.
Lou, your hard work, helped make my job easier. Well Done.
Tom Stuart
September 28, 2009
Thank you, Mr. Alessi, for your service to our country in Vietnam. My condolences to your family. In all the years I've been hearing about you and your products, I have never heard anything other than utmost respect and high regard. Rest in Peace, sir.
Kim Fowler
September 24, 2009
To Lou's family,
If only you knew how many lives Lou has touched. He touched mine, and I am so much the better for it.
My first Alessi holster was a Bodyguard shoulder holster for a Colt Officer's Model .45 ACP, purchased in 1986. For reasons I won't go into here, that holster literally saved my life. From that point on, I don't think I ever purchased a handgun without also ordering an Alessi holster in which to carry it, usually a Talon Nyclip IWB or a Belt Slide (or both). If I sold the gun, the holster went with it because I was always very picky about who I sold my firearms to (usually fellow LEOs) and I wanted them to know what a really fine holster should be.
I talked to both Lou and Mary Lou many times over the years, and I will always regret that I was never able to meet Lou. He was always ready to bend over backward to help me out; he really understood the meaning of quality, integrity and customer service. When I learned of Lou's passing, I feared that would be the end of Alessi Holsters. I can't tell you how ecstatic I am to know that the family will be carrying on the tradition of excellence established by this fine man.
God bless you, Lou, and may God bless your family and keep them safe until you all meet again. May your family prosper and bask in the memory of a life well-lived.
Ernie Hill
September 13, 2009
My personal condolences to Mr. Alessi and the Alessi family.
Ernie Hill
September 13, 2009
My personal condolences to Mr. Alessi and family.
Ari Ariel
September 7, 2009
So long old man. See you some other time. Save me a seat.
Antonio Rodriguez
September 3, 2009
Lou, I will miss you so very much. You were THE kindest man I've ever met and a true "quiet warrior". I am honored that I not only spoke to you several times over the phone but got to meet you and the rest of the Alessi Family through the years.
You will always hold a special place in not only my heart but my wife's as well.
God rest my friend. Many men are better for having known you.
Richard Oldfield
July 23, 2009
I am sorry to respond so late. I tried to call Lou after he became ill but I never got through or found a home phone. You have my condolences. Lastly, I will miss Uncle Lou as you do.
l. rich
July 13, 2009
to the alessi family,i only chatted with lou only twice cocerning the order of a holster. he seemed like a first class gentelman. i did received the holster from mary lou after his passing. it is a real work of art. i wear it once in a while. i only wish i could have had it when i was a policeman.
my sinceerest condolences.
lar
la,jacksonville alabama
F B
July 10, 2009
I did not know Lou, but admired his work for over 30 years. After reading the many entries in the guest book, one can only hope to make such a difference in so many lives. I let my 11 year old son peruse through the book here online, and afterward suggested he could live such a life, with hard work and a good heart, touching those you know and even those you don't. He said that he did not know if he could be THAT good, and stated, "that man sounds like he came from heaven".
I assured him he was right, and that maybe one day we will be lucky enough to meet him.
God rest his soul, seems we lost a good one. Prayers for the family.
FB
Tom Campolo
July 8, 2009
To the Alessi family: I only knew Lou from the forum, and was amazed that he shared his knowledge of holster making so freely, in fact he inspired me into leather making, i have one of his holsters that i will cherish forever..I am so glad you are keeping the legacy going..My sincerest condolences....
Guy Smith
June 30, 2009
I never had the pleasure of meeting Lou, I had only spoken with him on the phone and internet. From our conversations I knew he was a Great man and it was an honor to converse with him. I will always remember him.
Bob Statkus
June 28, 2009
To the Alessi family,
Never had the pleasure to meet Lou but know his fine work well.
I own two examples of his work, the first from 32 years ago. You were an artist Lou, and you will be missed.
God keep you.
With my warmest regards,
Bob Statkus
Gary Taylor
June 21, 2009
I met Lou in person many times when he came to the Ohio Gun Collector Show. He made me several holster. Some to fit special pistols. He never charged me extra and was always friendly. I'm sorry for your loss and his loss to us all.
Jim Linch
June 17, 2009
A genuine Prince was Lou, he will be greatly missed.
Darren Aadland
June 16, 2009
I'm so sorry for your loss,
the Bible guarantees a resurrection, I look forward to meeting him in the future, he seems like a good man.
Sincerely,
Darren
John Penaflor
June 8, 2009
Rest in peace. You will not be forgotten.
Brian Kirkey
May 10, 2009
Dear Idamarie and Alexandra,
Please accept my deepest heartfelt condolences and sympathy for your loss of a loving husband and father. Lou was so proud of you and often spoke of Alex's accomplishments.
I will always remember the glow on Lou’s face each time you stopped by the shop while I was visiting. His love to both of you was so evident in his face every time you walked in. I know he could see the Angle in each of you. He loved you so very much.
Lou was like a brother to me and the time we spent together will be cherished memories for the rest of my life. Lou was the best friend anyone could have, my life is richer for being graced by knowing him. I will miss my dear friend forever.
May Lou rest in peace and continue to watch over you as I know he will.
My prayers are with you and Lou.
Sincerely,
Brian Kirkey
Markham, Ontario, Canada
Dr.Lawrence Pace
April 9, 2009
Dear Alessi Family,
I just learned of Lou's passing via the internet. When I stopped by the shop on my visit home last Thanksgiving it was closed.I have been an admirer and user of Lou's fantastic leather holsters since at least the the early 80's. I always enjoyed stopping by and discussing my next " project" with Lou. He always took care of me and I never had to wait more than a week for one of his works of art. He was a true craftsman and gentleman. I am reminded of him daily as one of his holsters is always by my side. I've been in AZ 5 years now and I am sorry I have been unable to see him personally in that time period. His passing reminds us how precious and fleeting our lives are. My deepest condolences.
April 3, 2009
Alessi family,
Our deepest sympthy to you and your entire family on the loss of the most wonderful person anyone could meet LOUIS.
I went to grade school with Louie and have many fond memories of those days. I would always catch up with him at the shop. He will be greatly missed.
May God give you the strength to carry on.
Joe and Joann Fanara
Len Sparks
March 27, 2009
Dear Idamarie and Alex:
I had the pleasure of meeting you and Lou and of course Alex many years ago. Lou took me through his shop, explained the equipment and his beginnings. He was truly wonderful. I will miss him. I offer my condolences and sympathy for your painful loss.
I'm sorry I couldn't respond sooner. We are in Florida and I just heard the news.
David Moxhay
March 24, 2009
Dear Idamarie:
Although I never met Lou in person, I spoke with him several times on the phone, and I always found him to be friendly, gracious, and polite.
Since 1991, I have ordered and received Alessi holsters for all my pistols, and I have always been impressed with their quality and function. I have owned other holsters, but my daily carry holsters are all made by the master, Lou Alessi.
My thoughts and prayers go out to you and Alexandra in this time of your loss. Lou was a fine artisan and an ever better man. May he rest in peace.
David Moxhay
Ray Caton
March 19, 2009
I believe it was 1972 when Lou walked into my gunshop, at that time Stalag-13 in Oakfield NY with a bag full of holsters. He said my name is Lou Alessi and I am making these holsters you may be interested in. Two of them were shoulder holsters, one the figure 8 design and the other the fieldmaster with the holster that swiveled forward, for easy drawing of large revolvers. Those holsters were later copied by other manufacturers, but we all knew that lou was the originator. I bought several holsters that day, and for years to come. Lou was a great guy and a good friend. He will be missed.
Ray Caton
Jeff Larsen
March 18, 2009
I am so sorry to hear about Lou's passing. I met Lou for the first time in the late 90's and quick became a friend. Lou stood over my shoulder while I made my own IWB holster for my .45. Mike, his assistant, also helped me and I was amazed at the craftsmanship that went into each and every holster that bore his name.
Afterwards we went to the "Buffalo Wings" bar and tip back a few glasses and ate tons of wings.
Throughout the years, I corresponded with Lou about design and how his holsters (ankle, IWB, etc.) benefitted me in my job environment and have no doubt that these kept me alive during difficult encounters.
Lou, rest in peace my friend.
Jeff
Brian Cid
March 8, 2009
My deepest sympathy to Idamarie, Alexandra and Mary Lou, I met Lou in 1981 and have always considered him a good friend. He loved you all very much and spoke of you all the time. I will miss him.
Respectfully,
Brian Cid
Gregory Stone
March 7, 2009
To the Alessi Family:
Please accept my deepest condolences. Lou was a great man whose product has saved the lives of countless law enforcement personnel. He will be missed by us.
My prayers go to you all.
Nicholas Nardome
February 27, 2009
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Vinny Brocato
February 26, 2009
To the Alessi Family,
Please accept my condolences. Louie and I were old friends and used to have loads of fun at Crystal Beach! He was always respectful and considerate of others around him...a truly great guy!
Sam and Linda Salemi
February 25, 2009
To the family of Lou,
Lou and I became friends in the 5th grade at P.S. 76. We had so many good times growing up. There is not enough space to list them. He will surely be missed by all who knew him.
Det. Tom Gillespie
February 25, 2009
Idamarie & Alexandra - As I get older, I can literally count on one hand the really nice guys I have met in my life . . . Lou was one of those guys. I have always been impressed with really fine craftsmen, and again, Lou was one of those guys. Lou was a real gentleman and it was always a pleasure to chat with him. I know he is at peace with God and no longer suffering. We will all miss him greatly. Let Kim or I know if there is anything we can do for you during this stressful time.
Cameron
February 25, 2009
My Sincere condolances on the passing of Lou. Godspeed.
Thomas Burba
February 24, 2009
I am very fortunate to have initially meet due to an order. We communicated a few months before and after he became seriously ill. Lou was kind to complete my holsters before entering the hospital. We joked about two old guys with the same life dreams. I will cherish and carry his artistic gifts. May God give him a special welcome. My best to the Alessi family.
Jon Dusse
February 24, 2009
My deepest sympathy to the Alessi family
John Pedone
February 24, 2009
Thoughts and prayers to the Alessi family..May "Uncle Lou" rest in peace.....
John Hilliard
February 24, 2009
Ida Marie and Alex,
Lou was truly one of the "good guys". I was blessed to have been able to know him and learn from him. My deepest sympathies to you and the family.
Sonny&Cena Pinnataro
February 24, 2009
Deeply saddened by your passing.Though we were away from Buffalofor many years, the family closeness during those early years are remembered fondly. God keep you and your family . Love, Sonny and Cena Pinnataro
Ian Martin
February 24, 2009
My sincerest condolences to his family.
Godspeed Lou R.I.P.
Ian Martin
International Handgun Leather
Sandy Berzer
February 24, 2009
IdaMarie and Alex, We are truly sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you always. Anything we can do to help you out just call. Sandy at the St. Pius X Religious Education Office 688-5417
JD Smith
February 24, 2009
Both a gentleman and a gifted artisan; God Speed, Lou.
Augie Sodaro
February 24, 2009
To The Alessi Family: Our prayers are for your comfort with your loss. Lewis was a gifted cousin. I enjoyed many conversations with him over the last year. I will cherish the beautiful holster he gave me. He was a talented and gifted man. May the Lord bless you all.
Andrew Freundlich
February 24, 2009
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
michael beals
February 23, 2009
Gone from this world but never forgotton . Your legend will live on
Mel Fox
February 23, 2009
Much time has past since we met upon this rode, but we remember you well, and will always respect your memory.
Donna Marx
February 23, 2009
Dear cousin Louis,
You are now surrounded by all the loving Sodaro family in heaven. They have you now and we suffer your loss.
Sharon Hondzinski
February 23, 2009
Dear IdaMarie and Alex, So sorry to hear about Louis ..I will always remember our younger days at Gramma Sodaro's house when Louie lived upstairs with Aunt Rosie,,how he would wait for Sandy and Me to come upstairs and jump us from behind the door..we always had so much fun with him..he will be missed by alot of people..he touched so many lives..and how he could play the piano back then..sorry I can't be there at the wake and funeral ..Iam still in Florida ..
John Zirpola
February 23, 2009
Ida, I can remember when I was visiting from Boston, You came home a said...Oh my I met a wonderful man, I wondered, then a short bit later I met him.... oh my you were right... I was so happy for you after all the years of searching you found him, and he found you. . . over the years I saw you both grow together and have a beautiful daughter. Look at all of the wonderful things that you've together. . .what a wonderful world the lord gave you. . . he is with him walking, and talking together. . .oh my . . . we will all be there togehther one day.... in the meantime, keep those memories so we all can smile, and know...we spent this time on earth...shared, cared and loved...
John Tirone
February 23, 2009
Mrs. Alessi and Family,
We are so sorry for your loss. Our deepest sympathy to you. Please do not hesitate to call if you need anything. John Tirone, All Seasons Outdoor Care
Ryan Anthony Neighborhood Plumbing
February 23, 2009
Thank you Lou for the time that we had. Thanks for listening and thanks for caring. You didn't judge and you suppported who I was. There's no question that regardless of the short time that I knew you, I will no doubt miss you. I speak for all of us Plumbers from the Neighborhood when I say that you where truly a great man and we where fortunate to have known you. We will miss the afternoon conversations as well as the anticipation to have our new weapons shielded in your leather. Thank you Lou for being you.
Sandy Hanley
February 23, 2009
My dear wonderful Louis,
I will miss our phone calls, my visits to see you at your shop, and most I will miss your voice saying "Hi Honey" You gave me encouragement these last few weeks regarding your health, you knew how I worried. You have such a great family that loved you so much, Ida Marie and Alex are just wonderful. All your other cousins have had you in their thoughts and prayers and will miss you as well. Love you forever.
Francine and David Lee
February 23, 2009
My Dearest Cousin Louis, How lucky we were to have had a special cousin to share so many memories. We spent so many special times together growing up, had great summers at the cottage in Crystal Beach and lots of Christmas celebrations that went long into the night at our house. I am so grateful for your loving friendship, caring ways and gentle understanding. Dave and I will miss you, but know that you will be watching over all of us and although we are saddened, we know that your were welcomed into Heaven by your loving Mom, Rose and your Father, Louie.
We wish we could have returned to Buffalo for a final farewell, but time and distance has made it impossible. So for now dear cousin, rest in peace and until we meet again remember you are loved by many.
Dave Erickson
February 23, 2009
Dear Idamarie and Alex,
I only knew Lou through phone conversations over the years. I deeply regret that I didn't have a chance to meet him face to face. Lou's passing is a great loss to the shooting community, but he leaves a legacy that is unparalleled.
May you find peace during this difficult time. My prayers are with you.
Sverker Ulving
February 23, 2009
All loved ones of Lou,
Please accept the deepest condolences from the Swedish Colonel. I'll miss our conversations and I'll miss the sweet, long wait for a new holster. And as always, I will savour the comfort of his impeccable art.
Colonel Sverker Ulving
New York City and Stockholm, Sweden
Doreen daniels
February 23, 2009
my dear cousin ! you are now in your loving mothers arms. you will be missed by so many people.thank you for your loving caring ways.you are now a angel. we love you,doreen and bill daniels and family.
Ida Grisanti
February 23, 2009
My dear sweet friend Idamarie. I was so shocked to learn of Louie's passing. Being so far away makes it hard not to be there for someone who has been a big part of your life but please know that time or distance does not diminish the love and friendship I feel for you and please know that I am so very sorry for this loss that has come to you and your family. I have only fond memories of Louie and will never forget his truly funny side. What a great loss for all of us who knew him but also what a great blessing to have had him in our lives.
Always,
Ida
Steve Barresi
February 23, 2009
My prayers go out to Lou and his family. He was well known in the leather industry all over the United States - He was a fine gentleman and a truly legendary man. RIP Uncle Lou!
Lyle Sidener
February 23, 2009
I only knew him by his reputation. I was amazed when I got a timely personal email from him when I had a question about his leatherwork. What a loss to the industry. Personally my thoughts are with the family.
Maria & Jon Brawdy (Vacanti)
February 23, 2009
Idamarie and Alex
We are sorry to hear about the loss of your loved one. He was a great man who had a lot of knowledge. He was loved by everyone for his wonderful smile, jokes, conversations and his passion to his business. My father (Skip) loved him, and loved working for him. He was his buddy. Now that they are both gone, they are back together again. We love and miss you Louis!
Ray R&F
February 23, 2009
Sorry to have him go , Always a good Guy .
marguerite vacanti
February 23, 2009
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Lt. Scott Duerr NTPD
February 23, 2009
I will miss going to the shop for my casual visits with Lou. We have spent many, many hours over the years talking about just about every facet of life. Lou was a true gentleman in every aspect of the word. My life was enriched because Lou was my friend. Lou was a shining light of humanity. Now the world is a little darker. He will be greatly missed. Thank you, Lou, for all you have done.
Eric Murray
February 23, 2009
Every once n awhile we all have a chance to meet a person that we know as a true Gentleman. Lou was that kind of person, he was a true Gentleman. Though I never met Lou in person, I've spoken with him quite a few times, he always made time for me and made me feel as if we had known each other all of our lives. I remember getting an email from Lou when my son was in Iraq, Lou said I know he will be alright and I also know how proud you are of him. I also remember getting one of the 1st APX holsters and a little note that said "Happy Birthday". Thanks for allowing me to share your Husband and Father, the art that he produced is his legacy. Godspeed Lou..
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