Obituary of Adrian Zangirolami

Adrian Zangirolami, age 74, passed away on April 10, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on May 27, 1949, in Buenos Aires, Argentina to Venetian father Mezio and Polish mother Sofia. Alongside his brother Claudio, Adrian spent his early years in Buenos Aires, where he enjoyed fishing with his brother and grandfather “Dida”, playing piano recitals, riding his bicycle and even horseback riding. He attended the Italian School Cristoforo Colombo and lived in Beunos Aires until 1962 when his family relocated to Venice, Italy.

In Venice, he continued his education attending University Ca Foscari and then worked for the Comune di Venezia before marrying his beloved wife of 50 years, Germana, in 1973. Two years later, in 1975, Adrian immigrated to Houston, Texas with his family and Germana where they welcomed two sons, Mezio and Glen.

Adrian’s passion for food launched his life in America managing restaurants and clubs such as Ninfa’s, The Plaza Hotel, and Jimmie Walkers in Kemah to name a few. He even played the role of restaurant owner with Italian eatery Baffoni’s. Changing industries, Adrian transitioned into the insurance business and most recently as a respected financial coach for the past two decades.

A social butterfly, Adrian effortlessly made many friends during his life. His love of jazz music led him to cross paths with legends such as Tony Bennet, Frank Sinatra, Maynard Ferguson, and many more. Fluent in three languages, Adrian was a man of diverse talents who appreciated life’s finer aspects. He was an avid reader of science fiction, history and art books and found joy as he started his day with a chuckle from the Houston Chronicle comics.

As a master gardener, Adrian specialized in cultivating roses, orchids, cacti, and all types of vegetables, earning him the honor of Best Garden in Pearland twice! He cherished nature, relishing moments spent fishing and exploring Texas Parks and Wildlife. He indulged in winemaking, culinary adventures and the pleasure of savoring cigars.

A generous soul, Adrian extended his helping hand without hesitation, touching the lives of family and friends alike. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness and warmth, deeply missed by all who knew him!

Adrian is preceded in death by his parents, Mezio and Sofia Zangirolami; loving wife, Germana Zangirolami; sons, Mezio Zangirolami and wife Maria Jose Ferrer Garay, and Glen Zangirolami and wife Regina; brother, Claudio Zangirolami and wife Michelle; grandchildren, Josep, Isabella, Emmett, and Sabrina; nephews, Steven, Andy and Alvise; nieces, Julia and Elisa; cousins, Alejandra, Patricia, Enzo, Milena, Loredana, and Alvise; and a host of other family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Adrian's memory to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation.