Andrew G. Bucaro

On October 29, 2003, at approximately 1:30 PM, retired Judge Andrew G. Bucaro died at his home in New Orleans. He was 80 years old. Judge Bucaro was born in New Orleans on January 21, 1923, where he resided continuously throughout his life. Appointed to the Municipal Court bench in 1955 by Gov. Robert F. Kennon, he was elected and re-elected to that bench continuously until his retirement in 1977. He was unopposed in every one of his reelections. While a judge, along with the present Orleans Parish Coroner, Dr. Frank E. Minyard, and former Municipal Judge (present Councilman-at-Large) Eddie L. Sapir, he strongly advocated the decriminalization of minor drug violations and medical intervention for defendants as an alternative to incarceration. Such proposals, common these days, were considered then as radical and controversial. Judge Bucaro was a member of and received numerous honors and awards from professional and civic organizations during his years of judicial service. He spearheaded many Hungarian and Italian refugees being placed in homes and jobs in and around the New Orleans area. Mr. Bucaro also helped with the orphans at Mother Cabrini's Convent in the French Quarter. He was instrumental in acquiring The Bridge House from the State of Louisiana for the purpose it still serves today. Judge Bucaro also served pro temp and ad hoc at Orleans Parish Criminal District Court as well as in numerous districts in Louisiana from the late 70's to the late 90's. A graduate of Tulane University and Tulane Law School, he was a Lieutenant (j.g.) in the U.S. Navy in World War II, serving in on amphibious surface ship in the Italy, Southern France and North Africa. He was a long time member and supporter of the New Orleans Athletic Club, where he received numerous awards representing the NOAC and the City of New Orleans in table card tournaments. Judge Bucaro was the son of Giacomo and Frances Cascio Bucaro, brother of Archangela Bucaro, all of whom predeceased him. He was married to Inez Martino, who also pre-deceased him. He is survived by four children, Ann Bucaro, Andrea Bucaro Montelepre, Inez Bucaro, and Andrew Bucaro and seven grandchildren. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Funeral Mass at LAKE LAWN METAIRIE FUNERAL HOME, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd. (in Metairie Cemetery) on Friday, October 31, 2003 at 1:00 PM. Interment will follow in Metairie Cemetery. Visitation Friday morning 11:00 AM until Funeral Time.