More than 100 mourners gathered Thursday at Holy Family Church in New Rochelle to honor the life of actor Vincent Pastore, who died at the age of 80. Best known for his portrayal of Salvatore “Big Pussy” Bonpensiero in the HBO series “The Sopranos,” Pastore was remembered by his daughter, Renee Pastore, and co-star Steven Van Zandt.
Renee Pastore described her father as a “giving person” who appreciated his life and shared his good fortune generously, often through large cash tips or by engaging with people on the street. She noted that he ran nightlife establishments, including the Crazy Horse bar in Westchester, before beginning his acting career in his 40s. "He was a man who lived out his dreams… but he knew how lucky he was," she said during the service.
Steven Van Zandt, guitarist for Bruce Springsteen's E Street Band and a fellow actor, served as one of Pastore's pallbearers. "We had a theater company together, so I saw him quite often," Van Zandt told The Post. He shared that he and his wife had spoken with Pastore two days before his death, calling it a fortunate final conversation. "He was one of a kind, and we'll miss him very much," Van Zandt added.
Pastore's career also included roles in films such as “Goodfellas” and “Carlitos Way.” He was a Vietnam veteran.