The tough guy that he was, Ciampi used that attribute to battle cancer head on, and with determination. He focused on the plan and the solution, said Berkowitz, and he never once complained or asked, “Why me?” “He battled and never lost his dignity or his hilarious sense of humor,” he said.

“They say the brightest stars in the universe burn out first. Brian was truly the biggest among us. Although we grieve terribly, we will be lifted up by all the joy and laughter Brian brought into our lives. Every time we think of Brian, it will be accompanied by a smile. Our lives are all richer for having known Brian Ciampi. If love and relationships were a form of currency, then Brian was the richest man in the world.”

Ciampi is survived by his parents, Michael and Patricia, his brother, Michael (Adrienne) and sister, Jaime Femia (James). He was uncle to four nieces and two nephews.

The family received friends at the Perry Funeral Home Inc. on Union Avenue in Lynbrook. A Funeral Mass was held on February 26 at Our Lady Of Peace Church in Lynbrook. Interment followed at St. Charles Cemetery in Farmingdale.

In Lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to “Friends of Brian Ciampi.” Make checks payable to “From Our Family To Yours,” 486 Sunrise Highway Suit 200 Rockville Centre, NY 11570. All donations will go to the scholarship fund.