Louis J. Pirastru, 92, passed away after a long illness on Jan 5, 2021, surrounded by his loving family, and finally reuniting with the love of his life, Marilyn (Brown) Pirastru, who had preceded him in death after 44 years of marriage.

Louis spent his last three years after Marilyn's passing in the loving care of his daughter Donna Ross in Albany, NY, where he was able to enjoy spending time with his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and special canine friend, Buddy.

Lou was born in Niagara Falls, NY on April 24, 1928, son of the late Luigi and Giovanna (Gaeta) Pirastru.

Lou was raised in Niagara Falls and graduated from Niagara Falls High School. He was a long-standing member of the Local 9 Iron Workers Union. Of all the large projects he worked on, both in New York and California, he was most proud of the work he did on the Grand Island Bridges and the Robert Moses Niagara Power Plant.

Lou enjoyed spending time in the nearby gorges, seeking treasures of the past. He was an avid collector of all things antique, especially furniture, china, jewelry, arrowheads, coins, books, and stamps. He loved to share his collection with his family and would often share stories about the history of his special pieces with his children and grandchildren.

Lou was a devoted parishioner of St. Bernard's Catholic Church in Youngstown, NY, where he had many friends. He was especially fond of his neighbors and longtime home in Collingwood Estates, where he and Marilyn spent the majority of their lives. They would enjoy many evenings together with martinis, cheese, and crackers on the back patio, which he liked to call his "little piece of paradise."

Louis is survived by his children: Donna Ross, David (Patricia) O'Hara, Dianne O'Hara and Daureen (Michael) Mallamaci. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Christina (Eric) Rosen, Patricia (Brian) Kidder, Courtney (Andy Daniel) O'Hara, Samantha O'Hara, Amanda O'Hara, Nathan Schultz, Samuel Mallamaci, Anna Mallamaci and Evan Schultz; five great grandchildren, his sister-in-law, Marie Pirastru and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents and loving wife, Marilyn, he was predeceased by his sister, Joan (late Henry) Monti, brother Mario Pirastru, and son-in-law John (Donna Ross) Zaloga.

The family wishes to express their gratitude for the love, prayers and support provided by family and friends throughout Lou's illness. The family would also like to express their appreciation for the compassion and care provided by Community Hospice, especially the love and care from his hospice nurse, Lauren Unguran.

Due to the current circumstances, private funeral services and a Mass of Christian Burial will be held for Mr. Pirastru's family. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Community Hospice Foundation at 445 New Karner Road, Albany, NY 12205.