Family of Melbourne attack victim Sisto Malaspina accept state funeral

The family of beloved Melbourne restaurateur Sisto Malaspina has accepted an offer to honour him with a state funeral.

Malaspina, a co-owner of the iconic Pellegrini’s coffee bar, was killed in Friday’s Bourke Street terrorism incident which left the city in chaos.

The 74-year-old was well known by those who frequented the popular cafe, and by Monday morning hundreds of flowers and notes filled the footpath outside. The cafe, which Malaspina has run since 1974, has been closed since the attack and will reopen on Tuesday morning at 8am.

In a statement, his children thanked the public for their support and said they would not be making any further comment.

“We are deeply moved by all the flowers, gifts and condolences,” they said.

“To the people of Melbourne, your heartfelt tributes have shown us why our Dad loved this great city so much.

“To the emergency services personnel; our gratitude and appreciation for all your hard work and efforts. Especially the first responders and police that put themselves in harm’s way to protect others, your bravery and heroism is a representation of the strength and solidarity of our community.

“Dad was a larger than life character and his natural generosity made every individual he met feel welcome and important. Each customer of Dad’s was given the same respect and service regardless of their standing in society. To him everyone was special. His love and passion for his customers remained the same for over 40 years. To him it was a joy to go to work every day.

“He was a distinctly recognisable figure in his colourful choice of clothing and his flamboyant personality. To us he was just a beautiful man, a loving husband and a doting father.”

Pellegrini’s was one of the first venues in Melbourne to install an espresso machine, and is popular among locals, tourists and celebrities.

Victoria’s premier, Daniel Andrews, wrote on Twitter on Monday afternoon that Malaspina “was a Victorian icon, known and loved by us all”.

The state funeral will be held next week, with more details to come, he said.

“Until then, our love and thoughts remain with Sisto’s family.”

A note from Pellegrini’s staff placed in the window described him as “the best boss”.

“You always looked after us like family,” it read.

“You always said to have fun at work because we all worked so hard. Pellegrini’s was your life. We will never forget all that you have done and given us all. We will love you forever and ever in our hearts.”

Police officers also stood outside of the cafe to pay their respects and laid a wreath of flowers.

Meanwhile, the City of Melbourne council is considering ways to honour Malaspina, including suggestions to rename the laneway outside of Pellegrini’s “Sisto Lane”.

“In the coming weeks, the City of Melbourne will consider a range of measures to recognise the life of Sisto Malaspina,” a spokesman said.

“When appropriate, we will reach out to the family regarding the best way to honour Mr Malaspina. This includes suggestions from the public to rename Crossley Lane.”