Louis J. Pantusa, beloved husband, son, brother and favorite uncle to all, passed away Friday, February, 19th, at the age of 96 years.   Affectionately known as "Uncle Louie" to everyone who knew him, he was an absolute original, a one of a kind larger than life institution to his family and the community he embraced and loved.

He served in the Pacific in World War II, retired from Civil Service at Kelly Air Force Base, and was a lifelong member of San Francesco di Paola Catholic Church.   He was a member of the San Francescani Society and was the go-to person for repairs and assistance at the church and the hall next door for decades. He received the Caritas Legacy of San Francesco di Paola Award, the first ever given at the church. He served as President and Board Chairman of the Christopher Columbus Society, and in 2014, on the occasion of the 125th Anniversary of the Society, was presented with their Lifetime Achievement Award. An expert cook, he could repair a car or an air conditioner, build a home, play a good game of poker, and gave countless hours and over 70 years to the community Spaghetti Dinners and events. He was proud of his Italian heritage, the music, the food, the traditions, and he embraced it until his passing. He loved his church, his "hall", and above all, family. He was truly a "Man for all Seasons"; his accomplishments were many, but the full measure of the man was shown in the devotion and loving care of his wife, Vee, who was bedridden for 13 years. It was an inspiration that will live on within all of us.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Victoria Pantusa, who emigrated from Spezzano de la Sila, Italy; his wife, Vincenza "Vee" Pantusa, sisters Florence Rizzo, Caroline Monaco, Rose Scalise, brothers Mike and Frankie Pantusa. He is survived by his brother, Pete Pantusa and wife Dolores, brother in law, Ernest A. Barberio, numerous nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, great great nieces and nephews, and the many who loved him and "adopted" him as their own.   Uncle Louie, thank you for the memories. You were the best.

PALLBEARERS: Jordan Barberio, Michael Hyche, Will Gonzaba, Carl Monaco, John Rizzo, Jr. and Tommy Rizzo.

HONORARY PALLBEARERS: Ernest A. Barberio, Ernest John Barberio, Don Novian, Carlo Salvatore, Mike Scalise, John Rizzo, Sr., Louis Rizzo, and Robert Rizzo.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, February 24th, at 6:00 PM at the Angelus Funeral Home with a Rosary following at 7:00 PM. The Mass of the Resurrection will be held at San Francesco di Paola Catholic Church on Thursday, February 25th, at 10:00 AM, with burial at San Fernando Cemetery #2 to follow.