Charles W. Gallanti, a photographer and computer enthusiast who was described as a loving and devoted family man, died on Dec. 22 at the Kanas Center for Hospice Care in Quiogue. He was 77 and had Lewy body dementia.
Mr. Gallanti, an HVAC mechanic by trade, was a man of many talents. He had worked as a wedding photographer in his 20s and continued to take pictures throughout his life. “Charles had a keen eye for capturing beautiful moments through the lens of his camera,” his family said. His “breathtaking images . . . allowed others to see the world through his unique perspective.”
When he wasn’t behind the camera, Mr. Gallanti could be found “immersing himself in the world of computers, particularly enjoying flight simulations. He was always eager to embrace new technology and use it to explore new possibilities.” He also embraced older technology and was a dedicated ham radio operator.
His weekends often revolved around watching football, baseball, Nascar racing, or a favorite movie. He supported the New York Mets, the New York Giants, and was a fan of the late race car driver Dale Earnhardt. “His enthusiasm for these sports brought him great joy, whether watching the games alone or with loved ones,” his family said.
Mr. Gallanti spent many weekends hunting for treasures at yard sales alongside his close friend Doug Distler. “These adventures provided him with not only unique finds but also cherished memories of their time spent together,” according to his family.
Although a fan of classic R&B and jazz, he considered the Eagles his favorite band and “the soundtrack to his life.”
Mr. Gallanti was born in Southampton on Oct. 18, 1946, to Thomas Gallanti and the former Janine Algarra. He grew up in Sag Harbor and graduated from Pierson High School.
He and his first wife, Aurelia McNeil, raised four children, a daughter and three sons. The couple were together for 20 years and remained friends, their daughter said.
Mr. Gallanti eventually started his own HVAC company, Bridgehampton Climate Control, with his friend Pat McErlean. He also worked evenings at the Sag Harbor Youth Center for many years, where “he touched the lives of countless young men and women,” his children said.
He most recently lived in East Moriches, but had lived in Sag Harbor and East Hampton before that.
Mr. Gallanti “leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and creativity,” his children said. “His infectious laughter and warm heart will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.”
He is survived by his daughter, Kimberly Verity of East Moriches, and his sons, Charles Gallanti of East Hampton, Daniel Gallanti of East Moriches, and Phillip Gallanti of Riverhead, and by five grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, a brother, Ricky Gallanti of Fairfax, Va., and a sister, Marie Thorton of Jacksonville, N.C.
A memorial service was held on Dec. 28 at the McLaughlin Heppner Funeral Home in Riverhead.
