Louis Joseph Gallo

Louis Joseph Gallo was born in Hoboken, New Jersey on July 23, 1942 at the height of World War Two. His parents, Michael and Carmelina Gallo, had gotten an early start on the baby boom, starting their family which would eventually include two more younger brothers, Dominic (Dick) and Robert (Bob) and finally, his little baby sister, Beatrice (Bea).

In 1957, his family moved to Miami, Florida and bought a motel near the Miami International Airport, which became a family affair, Everyone helped out with yard work, cooking and welcoming guests. The hotel was also a bit of a party center as the kids grew up, bringing the community together.

Louis served in the Coast Guard during the Vietnam War. When he returned home, he turned his attention to work and artistic pursuits. He performed in many local productions in Miami and Miami Beach, including a star turn as Mercutio in "Romeo and Juliet" along with his younger brother, Dick. The brothers, along with Bob, shared a passion for the theatre.

This passion infused other parts of his life and poured out to others, especially to his nieces and nephews. Uncle Lou was a force in their lives. He encouraged drama in everything, teaching them Shakespearean verses and showing them how to approach everything, even reading birthday cards aloud, "with feeling!" He was known for his "wow"s which was basically just throwing the kids pell-mell into the air, often in somewhat perilous locations, like under a ceiling fan or over a high balcony. He offered them the world through National Geographic subscriptions and educational (and sometimes unusual) gifts.

He worked tirelessly as a real estate broker for many years, initially in residential property and then transitioning to commercial real estate. He was always focused on the next big deal.

He was very into fitness and health. He was an avid runner, participating in many marathons in Miami over the years. He also ran several 10ks with his brother-in-law, Don.

He will always be loved by his sister, Bea, brother-in-law, Don, Florida nieces: Nicole, Tess and Kate, California nieces and nephew: Gina, Michael, Melissa, and a host of great-nieces and great-nephews. Their Uncle Lou always wanted them to strive higher, push harder, live every moment of life at full throttle. He never wanted them to let others tell them what they could or could not do. He will be greatly missed.