Gabriel August Razzano

Gabriel August Razzano, 91, passed away peacefully at his home in Riva on November 14 after a long illness. Born May 10, 1918 in Roslyn, NY, Gabriel, known as Bill, grew up playing baseball, tending bar at the family restaurant, working on the docks, running a deli, and driving trucks. He also met and married the love of his life after "she chased him around" for awhile. During WWII, he served as a Corporal in the US Army. After returning from the war, he teamed up with the builder Levitt and Sons, installing plumbing into new homes from New York through Pennsylvania and ending in Bowie where he planted his roots. For 20 years, Bill was a fixture in Bowie social circles, and was featured in the Bowie Blade's society column. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus, The Elks, and The Lions. He was also a formidable force on the golf course, at the card table, and on bocce ball court. In retirement, Bill moved to Riva and spent his days on his dock or boat fishing, crabbing, or just enjoying the view. He was also an inventor and believed any problem could be solved with items around the house, creativity, and a little elbow grease. He enjoyed his Thursday lunches at the Knights, singing in the kitchen with his wife, listening to Italian music on his deck, and spending time with friends and family. He left his children and grandchildren with a legacy of living life to its fullest and the belief that it's all an adventure. His work ethic and generous spirit created a sense of civic responsibility through three generations. He also left us all knowing that laughter is the best medicine and life is always a little less dreary with a song in your heart. Bill is survived by his wife of 65 years, Audrey Razzano; his daughter, Audrey Fohner of Gambrills; his son, Ronald Razzano of Edgewater; 10 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren. Friends are invited to join his family from 2-4pm and 6-8 pm Tuesday, November 17th at Beall Funeral Home, 6512 NW Crain Highway, Bowie. A Funeral Mass will be held at Holy Family Church in Davidsonville at 10:30am on Wednesday with interment following at Lakemont Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to Hospice of the Chesapeake, 445 Defense Highway, Annapolis, MD 21401 or The American Cancer Society.