Theodore "Ted" Carl Galassi, Sr.

Ted was born in Springfield to Silvio “Seets” and Carolyn Galassi. He lost his father at a young age and remained devoted to his mother throughout her long life, visiting her regularly and helping care for her until her passing in 2020, at the age of 103.

A proud member of Bricklayers Union Local 8, Ted dedicated well over four decades to the masonry trade with Evans-Mason Inc. in Springfield, and was a major cornerstone of the company. Ted was a true master craftsman whose work can be seen across the Springfield area, Central Illinois, and as far as the U.S. Great Lakes Naval Station in Waukegan, Navy Pier, and the Merchandise Mart in Chicago. Among his most notable contributions were the Abraham Lincoln Hotel, the Illinois State Library, and the Old State Capitol Restoration of 1966–1969, where he was entrusted as lead stone mason at just 24 years old - cataloging, removing, and re-installing over 3,300 stones piece by piece to allow the building to be raised eleven feet on a new foundation. His crowning achievement was his leadership role in the 2005–2007 restoration of the Union Train Station at 500 E. Madison, returning its ornate brick and terracotta clock tower to its original glory and securing its place on the National Register of Historic Places. This was one of his most challenging, yet gratifying jobs. He retired alongside the founder’s son and fellow partners when the company closed its doors. His mastery of the trade left a mark that extended far beyond his family; it is written into the buildings and skyline of the city he called home.

Ted was a lifelong collector of Americana and a dedicated coin enthusiast. A social man with a love for life and friends, he was a familiar face at Springfield’s local establishments, pizzerias, and eateries - and he never turned down ice cream. For many years he was a regular at the Stockyard VFW. Though not a veteran himself, exempt from the draft as an only son, he honored those who served. After the passing of John Ceverlone, who had served as chapter president, Ted donated his labor and craftsmanship to build a monument and set a bronze statue in John’s memory. His mother Carolyn continued visiting the VFW throughout her life.

He was a good man who showed up for his family whenever it counted.

Ted was preceded in death by his parents, Seets Galassi and Carolyn Galassi Ceverllone; and the mother of his children Silvio, Seth, and Alinda, Jacqueline Galassi.

He is survived by his children, Ted Galassi Jr. (Tracy) of Chatham; Silvio Galassi (Michelle Klintworth) of Springfield, Seth Galassi of Springfield; and Alinda Moore (Randy) of Park Ridge; grandchildren, Dominic Galassi (Wife, Kaytlyn) Jacob Galassi (Wife, Gabby), Zane and Ella Galassi, Clayton Sponsler, Ava Moore, Abbey Moore, and Olivia Moore; great-grandchildren, Oliver and Carsen; a sister, Silvia Zdeb (Husband, Michael) of Naples, FL; Brie “Bartlett” Caruso, mother of his son Ted Jr; a niece; aunts; and many cousins.

A life built with skill, strength, and dedication - he laid a foundation that will last for generations.

His journey is complete; he is at peace, now at rest, forever in our hearts. What Ted built with his hands and his heart will endure. May he rest in peace, present with the Lord.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Animal Protective League or The Dementia Society of America.

Visitation and Funeral Ceremony: Family will receive friends at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at Butler Funeral Home - Springfield, 900 S. Sixth St., Springfield, until the time of the Funeral Ceremony at 11:00 a.m. with Celebrant Judy Woerner officiating.

Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery.