Luigi Lezzi, recently of Bainbridge Island, died on Aug. 27. He was 60.

He was born on Oct. 1, 1947, in Matino, a small town in Puglia in southern Italy, He grew up leading a simple life without indoor plumbing or heating, helping his father work their small plot of land and orchards.

He attended the University of Siena, graduating with a degree in political science. Luigi married in Siena, adopted the contrada “Montone,” and began an insurance agency. His love of cycling moved him to sponsor a bike racing team that he nurtured and funded for many years. Following his original love, he soon created his first hotel in Colle Val d’Elsa by restoring an old villa and turning to what would become the trend of “agriturismo” in Italy – vacationing in the countryside. In Siena he went on to also own ristorante, Medio Evo. Transferring to the coast, he refurbished and developed Villa Roma Imperiale.

In 1994, he moved to California to be with his children. Undaunted by not speaking English, he rose from the position of waiter to restaurant manager to owner of a beautiful restaurant within five years. His charm and gracious hospitality created a large, supportive following.

After being diagnosed in November 2007 with stomach cancer for the second time (the first 30 years prior), he moved to Bainbridge Island to be near his children.

He was active at St. Cecilia Catholic Church and once again extended his hospitality to those he loved. Just four days before his death, he prepared and hosted a luncheon for his closest friends, as a gift of thanks for their support.

He is survived by his daughter, Ottavia Lezzi and his son, Luca Lezzi; and in Italy, his daughter, Rossella Lezzi, mother, Adele DeFilippo, and brother, Antonio Lezzi.

In true form, Luigi organized and attended his own funeral mass a few weeks prior to his death. It was important to him to share the time and the sacraments with his family and friends. Along with his new friends on the island, there were many who came from California to celebrate his life and friendship.

A memorial mass will be held at 9 a.m. Oct. 1 at St. Cecilia Catholic Church.