Louis Padula

COLONIE - Louis "Luigi"/"Gigino" Padula, 82, of Colonie, passed peacefully into eternal life on September 24, 2012 surrounded by his loving wife and five children. Born in Montemurro, Italy, he was the son of the late Giuseppina Baiona and Francesco Padula.

In the early 1950s, after serving in the Italian army, he immigrated to the United States, where he also served in the American army, stationed in Germany. He maintained many friendships that began during his early years in Italy, including his friendship with Vittorio Santalucia.

He had a long and notable career with Niagara Mohawk Power Company, during which he designed many transmission power lines that still stand today across New York State. With his brothers, he operated the Pizza Nook, a family restaurant that garnered acclaim and notoriety for three decades.

Beloved husband of Marie (Porcaro) for 55 years, devoted father and grandfather, hero, mentor and friend, Louis will forever be cherished. He was and still is the backbone and strength of his family. Louis was happiest when spending time with his grandchildren, who were the brightest lights in his life. Always protective and caring, he was our answer to everything. Generous in heart, he would help out anyone. We will never meet another man like him.

He is the brother of Vincent (late Lena), the late Antonio (Eleonora), and the late Josie, and step-brother to the late Tony (late Isabella); father of Frank, Lisa (Dino) Petrocelli, Louis Anthony (Karen), Marco (Gina), and Rocco; grandfather of Sara, Sophia, Dino Jr., Danielle, Samantha, Dominic, Allegra, and Gianina, and uncle to countless nieces and nephews. A very special mention is made of his nephews Vinnie and "Baby Frank," and niece, Chrissy Porcaro, who was with him when he was most in need.

The loyalty of his friends Victor Ciancetta, Mike Mansion, Sal Piazza, and Mike Chaszczewski was unparalleled and will be fondly remembered.

The family also wishes to extend their thanks and appreciation to the Community Hospice of Albany for their compassion and care.

Funeral services will be held 10:00 am on Saturday at Christ Our Light Catholic Church, 1 Maria Drive, Albany, NY 12211. Relatives and friends are invited to call on Friday from 4:00 pm to7:00 pm at New Comer-Cannon Funeral Home, 343 New Karner Road, Albany, NY 12205. Interment will be at Our Lady of Angels Cemetery,Colonie. Those wishing to remember Louis Padula in a special way may send a contribution to the American Lung Association or to the American Cancer Society.