Obituary of Vittorio Barbagallo

Vittorio Barbagallo, a beloved husband, father, grandfather and master tailor, passed away peacefully on September 25, 2024, at the age of 89. Born on September 15, 1935, in Catania, Sicily, he was the son of Rosaria and Antonino Barbagallo, a renowned Italian bootmaker whose exceptional skills included crafting footwear for notable figures such as Benito Mussolini.

At a young age, Vittorio embraced his own path as a master tailor. In 1961, he married his devoted wife, Iole Corsaro, and together they had two children, Antonino and Donna. In 1967, seeking new opportunities and a better life, Vittorio, Iole, and their firstborn son Antonino immigrated to the United States, where they began their journey with humble jobs sewing on an assembly line at Bonds Clothing Factory.

In 1971, Vittorio’s entrepreneurial spirit led him and Iole to establish their own business, Vittorio Designs, on Culver Road in Rochester, NY. By 1974, the shop evolved into Vittorio Tuxedo Shop, quickly becoming a favorite destination for tuxedo rentals and outfitting thousands of men for special occasions. Vittorio’s dedication and craftsmanship ensured that his legacy continued, with the shop still serving the community but under new ownership.

A man of unwavering devotion, Vittorio was fiercely protective of his family and deeply committed to their well-being. He prioritized his children’s education by ensuring they attended private schools and pursued higher education. His tenacity and relentless drive were evident in all aspects of his life, and he would often express his gratitude for the opportunities America provided him, saying, “I am an American; I love America because it gave me opportunity, I kiss the ground I walk on.”

“Con la forza della volontà”,  (the strength of the will) Vittorio would climb many ladders in life and always make it to the top. He will be remembered for his relentless pursuit of excellence and his indomitable spirit. His tenacity only ceased with his last breath, he never surrendered. His legacy lives on, a testament to a life well-lived and a spirit that will forever endure in those who loved him.

Vittorio is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Iole; his son Antonino (Christa); his daughter Donna; and his cherished granddaughter Isabella. He leaves behind dear friends Bert and Brigitta Lux, as well as extended family in Catania, Italy

Friends and family are invited to honor Vittorio’s life during visitation on Thursday, October 3rd, from 12 PM to 1 PM, followed by a Funeral Mass at 1 PM at St. Thomas More Church, 2617 East Ave, Rochester. He will be entombed at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Vittorio’s memory be made to Our Lady of Mercy School Performing Arts, attn. Karen Higman, 1437 Blossom Rd., Rochester, NY 14610.