Louis S. Gozzi

Surrounded by his loving family, Louis Samuel Gozzi, 92, passed away at home on November 17, 2023.

Born in Springfield, Massachusetts on March 3, 1931, Louie was the son of the late Carmine and Mary (Rodino) Gozzi of Reggio Calabria, Italy.

Louie grew up in Springfield and graduated from Springfield Technical High School. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Navy during the Korean War and served on the USS Des Moines. After honorably serving his country for 4 years, Louie came home and married his sweetheart, Sally Quirk in 1952.  

For 25 years, Louie worked as a barber at Gateway Barber Shop, where he would entertain his customers with his stories and forge friendships that would last a lifetime.

In 1980, Louie's lifelong friend, Jack Albano, asked him to become his Dean of Admissions at The Salter School, where Louie worked for another 15 years until his retirement.

After retirement, Louie and Sally would head to Florida and spend the winter months in Ft. Myers Beach with family and friends, enjoying golf, the beach, and the beautiful weather.

Louie and Sally were married for over 71 years. Their marriage was an amazing and lasting testament of love and devotion to each other, their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Louie is survived by his wife, Sally Gozzi, their daughters, Gina Chapman & husband Bobby of San Clemente, CA, Marianne Bonavita & husband Louie of Agawam, and Nancy Gozzi of West Hartford, CT, son, Joseph Gozzi & wife Sydney of Sarasota, FL, foster son, Jeff Downing & wife Sorell of Stoddard, NH, niece & goddaughter, Lynda Kunasek of Agawam, along with Paul Malkoon of Southwick.  

Louie and Sally were blessed with 12 adoring grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. All of the grandkids adored their “Nonno”, and they would each light up with a big smile when he walked in the room. They could always count on their Nonno to make them laugh, provide a big strong hug, pass along a silly sentiment, and let them know that “I love you” when he would say goodbye. Family meant the most to Louie, he will always remain a lasting memory in our hearts, our minds, and souls which will be carried on by his loved ones forever.

The family would like to thank Mary Nicoli and the Spectrum Hospice team who provided Louie with loving care during his final days.

Friends are welcome to join his family for a Liturgy of Christian Burial at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, November 28th at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Springfield; followed by his burial with military honors at the Massachusetts Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery in Agawam at 11 a.m.  

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Please visit www.Tazzinifuneralhome.com for condolences.