Giancarlo Mei

Giancarlo Mei, 88, of East Longmeadow, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully surrounded by family. Born on November 19, 1936, in Montemaggiore, Le Marche, Italy, he was the beloved son of the late Giovanni and Luigia (Gaudenzi) Mei. In 1956, Giancarlo immigrated to the United States, bringing with him a deep love for his Italian heritage and a passionate spirit that would define his life. He settled in the East Longmeadow area, where he built a life centered around family, hard work, and community. Giancarlo was the proud owner and operator of Mei's Central Barbershop in Springfield for many years, where he became a fixture in the neighborhood. Known for his warm smile and kind heart, he treated every customer like family. A man who carried music in his soul, Giancarlo was often heard singing joyfully around his home. In his younger years, he loved playing soccer, and later in life, he found joy in friendly games of bocce with close friends. His zest for life and his pride in his roots were evident to all who knew him. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Rita (Sticca) Mei, and his parents. He leaves behind a loving family who will miss him dearly: his daughter, Deborah L. Lareau and her husband Stephen of Wells, Maine; his son, Robert J. Mei of Kirtland, Ohio; his cherished sister, Rosanna DeNicolo of East Hampton, Connecticut; six adored grandchildren-Melissa, Justin, Jacob, Giorgi, Christian, and Phoebe; and three treasured great-grandchildren-Lukas, Jonathan, and Jackson. Family and friends are invited to gather for a calling hour on Saturday, September 6, 2025, from 9:00 to 10:00 AM at the Byron Keenan Funeral Home and Cremation Tribute Center, 1858 Allen Street, Springfield, MA. A funeral home service will follow at 10:00 AM. Burial will take place at Gate of Heaven Cemetery.