La Brezza owner Marco Abdi dead at 59

[Erick Estrada]

I apologize if a thread was already made but I found this pretty sad news. Anyone that's ever dined at La Brezza would know what people mean when they talk about his smile and friendliness. Just a really nice man. Not sure how many know but in the 80's La Brezza was the go-to place for the Flames mid decade star studded roster after game meals.

http://calgaryherald.com/business/lo...-abdi-has-died

[shermanator]

Love this quote in the article.

“For me, every day is Merry Christmas. My father told me that you are born with nothing and you die with nothing and every day between is Christmas. When you die you’re not going to take anything with you. My gift to you is happiness.”

[TheyCallMeBruce]

I got confused because I thought it was the other italian restaurant who has an owner's name also ending with "co".

[Slava]

He was such a kind and happy man. My office has been in Bridgeland for most of the past decade and I see him fairly often. Just a nice guy who always said hello and had a smile for everyone. Only the good die you I guess. RIP Marco.

[I-Hate-Hulse]

Was a frequent customer of LaBrezza in the 2000's and Marco's welcome was always such a big part of the experience. Was my go to place for dates, and this whole thread reminds me it's been far too long since I was there.

Love the Scoglio Seafood Pasta.

RIP Marco

[1stLand]

Came from pretty humble beginnings. Proves that Hard Work Pays off.

I remember watching commercials in early 90's of dougie Gilmour and other flames players eating there.

[Huntingwhale]

Noooooooo!!!

I was just thinking about him yesterday and how I was due back for another visit. I'm very saddened by this news. Marco was quite the character and him visiting the tables was often the highlight of the meal. A lot of my coworkers are going to be very sad, as La Brezza is our Christmas lunch location. RIP Marco. You we're one of a kind.

[manwiches]

Sad, as the world lost another good guy far too soon.

I had the pleasure of meeting him when I served him and his family at my dad's restaurant years ago. Everything they say about him, is true to an absolute T. He leaves you feeling like you just made a good friend.

[CofR]

Only met him once, my ex-girlfriend's Father was a frequent customer of his for business lunches. He was so kind and friendly, and the food at his restaurant was awesome. The one meal k had there included sightings of a Sutter and 3 Flames.

[SeeGeeWhy]

Just crushing. So sad, Marco was the best.

His memorial is going to be held this Friday 5:30 - 6:30 pm at the Centre St Church.

[SeeGeeWhy]

We should rename 1st Ave NE, Abdi Ave

[T@T]

Wow, Marco was probably the friendliest person I ever met, not sure how he did it but he could remember your name and favorite cocktail after your first visit...big drag, will be missed.

[Thor]

Horrible news, like everyone else he was such a warm and kind person who always made your experience there memorable.

[T@T]

Originally Posted by SeeGeeWhy

We should rename 1st Ave NE, Abdi Ave

Or Bridgeland to "Marcoland"

[SeeGeeWhy]

We need to make this happen!