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April 8, 2021

Community mourns, remembers Pepe’s owner

PHOTO | Courtesy Gary Bimonte
By Michelle Tuccitto Sullo

The unexpected passing of Gary Bimonte, an owner of the famous Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana, sparked tributes for the well-known restaurateur this week.

The business announced Thursday on its website that Bimonte had passed away.

“It is with deep and profound sadness that we announce the passing of our brother, Gary Bimonte,” his family said.  “Gary was a wonderful brother, son, uncle, and friend to so many, and he was loved by all of us.”

Pepe’s New Haven location was closed for business on Thursday because of Bimonte’s passing, but reopened Friday.

“Gary was the pride and joy of the Pepe’s family, and there are no words to express the immense void that his passing has left in our hearts,” the statement said. “He truly loved and cherished our family’s history, and he was so proud of the legacy that has carried through all these years.”

According to the family, Bimonte embodied the heritage and tradition the restaurants are known for today.

“Gary was incredibly grateful for all of the happiness that our family brought to so many people through our love of pizza,” the statement added. “He will be terribly missed by so many people.”

New Haven Mayor Justin Elicker expressed his condolences to Bimonte’s family and the greater Pepe’s family.

“They are an iconic institution not just in New Haven, but to the country,” Elicker said. “Their cultural contributions have a lasting impact on our nation’s culinary history. We will always remember Gary for the love he had for this city, his employees, and his family. Please keep his family in your thoughts.”

His grandfather, Frank Pepe, originally founded Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana in New Haven back in 1925. From a single location nearly a century ago, it has expanded to include more locations in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and New York, with additional expansion to Maryland in the works.

U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal was also among those extending condolences this week.

“Sad to learn of Gary Bimonte’s passing,” Blumenthal posted on Twitter. “When you think of pizza, you think of Pepe’s. My thoughts are with his family during this difficult time. Thank you, Gary, for many great slices & memories.”

Contact Michelle Tuccitto Sullo at msullo@newhavenbiz.com.

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