Real estate powerhouse Francesco Galesi dies at 95

August 18, 2026 - 02:06

Francesco Galesi, a real estate developer whose portfolio stretched from the Capital Region to the West Coast, has died at the age of 95. Galesi, who passed away peacefully at his home, was known for taking on projects others overlooked and turning them into profitable ventures.

His career began with a bold move: purchasing decommissioned military depots after World War II. While many saw these vast, empty structures as liabilities, Galesi saw opportunity. He converted them into industrial and commercial spaces, laying the groundwork for a company that would eventually handle everything from office parks to residential complexes.

Over the decades, his firm expanded far beyond its upstate New York roots. Galesi was involved in major developments in California and other states, earning a reputation for quiet persistence and a willingness to hold properties long-term. He rarely sought headlines, preferring to work behind the scenes, but his impact on the skyline of several cities is undeniable.

Colleagues remember him as a sharp negotiator with an eye for undervalued land. He never retired fully, coming into the office well into his nineties. He is survived by his children and grandchildren, who have been involved in the family business. A private funeral is planned, with a public memorial to be announced later.