Pietro Garbaini entered into eternal rest on January 7, 2025, at Northern Dutchess Hospital in Rhinebeck, NY. Born on February 17, 1948, in Condino, Italy, Pietro left his homeland in 1976 to join the love of his life, Mary. He proudly became an American citizen in 1981.

Pietro was the devoted husband of Mary Garbaini for 48 years. Together, they were blessed with two sons, David and James. Later, Pietro welcomed a daughter-in-law, Jennifer, into the family, and his heart grew even fuller with the births of his cherished grandchildren: Domenico, Lucy, and Elizabeth. His passion for life and deep love for his family were evident to all who knew him.

After attending culinary school in Europe, Pietro's passion for cooking and baking blossomed. He began his career as a pastry chef on Costa Line Cruises in Italy, enchanting travelers with his delicious creations during his early 20s. His culinary journey led him to the United States, where he established Buon Appetito Restaurant in Hyde Park, NY, in 1976. For 18 years, Pietro's skill and dedication as a chef and owner made the restaurant a beloved cornerstone of the community. He later continued sharing his culinary talents as the head chef at Northern Dutchess Hospital until his retirement in 2013. Pietro's dishes brought both comfort and healing to many, and if you were lucky enough to taste one of his famous swan cream puffs, you knew he poured his heart and soul into every creation.

Pietro was a man of many interests. Beyond his passion for cooking, he loved hunting and could often be found outdoors, busy working on new projects. He also enjoyed photography and videography, capturing the beauty of his travels, particularly his trips back home to Italy.

As we bid farewell to Pietro, we also celebrate his remarkable life and enduring legacy. He was predeceased by his parents, Beppina and Cipriano Garbaini; his sister, Francesca; and his father-in-law, John Maestri. He is survived by his beloved siblings in Italy, Albina (Luigino) and Renzo (Francesca); his 99-year-old mother-in-law, Lucy Maestri; his brother-in-law, Felix (Rosemary); his sister-in-law, Ann Marie (Andrew); and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Relatives and friends may call on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Sweet's Funeral Home, 4365 Albany Post Rd., Hyde Park, NY, on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 AM on Thursday, January 16, 2025 at Regina Coeli Roman Catholic Church, Route 9, Hyde Park, NY.