Alfonso DeGrazia

Alfonso was born April 23, 1928 in Lago Italy, to his parents Vincenzo DeGrazia and Rosina Merenda, and was surrounded by loving and caring family and friends throughout his life. He moved to New York City as a young man with his brothers Anthony and Gino and his sisters Onorina and Amalia to start a new life. (His parents and oldest sister, Ugolina, remained in Italy). There he met his wife of 51 years, Maria Acciarito. He is also survived by two sons, Anthony and Robert, to whom he was steadfastly devoted. He is also survived by his granddaughter Daniella, and his grandson Dante, as well as cousins, nieces and nephews in New York, California, Canada and Italy.

He quickly made his reputation as a world-class hair stylist at the Bergdorf Goodman Salon in Manhattan. He moved to Texas in 1985 to open his own business, first in Salado, and ultimately in Austin. He nurtured not just clients, but friends. Alfonso was a true gentleman with a great sense of humor, a generous heart and a thoughtful demeanor, which has become all too rare.

There will be a memorial service for Alfonso on Friday August 30, 2013 at 6:00 pm at St. Theresa's Catholic Church, 4311 Small Dr., Austin, TX. 78731, followed by a gathering at his home.