A Remarkably Classy Individual I Admired

John Aprea, known for his role as a young Salvatore “Sal” Tessio in “The Godfather Part II,” passed away earlier this month at the age of 83.

Aprea “died of natural causes” on Monday, Aug. 5 in Los Angeles, surrounded by his loved ones, his manager Will Levine confirmed to Fox News Digital.

“I am very saddened by the death of Mr. Aprea,” Levine told Fox News Digital. “He was an incredibly talented actor and loved by his friends. One of the classiest guys I knew.”

Aprea was born to Italian immigrants in Englewood, New Jersey, in 1941, making his first industry break in the 1968 Steve McQueen classic, “Bullitt.”

He gained additional recognition for his portrayal of young Tessio in “The Godfather Part II.” When cast for the role, Aprea reportedly sought advice from Abe Vigoda, who played the older version of Tessio in Part I. Vigoda’s playful response was simple, “I don’t know what I did. Just have a good time, kid.”

Aprea’s career flourished, featuring roles in numerous crime sagas and soap opera dramas.

He spent decades portraying characters like Alexander Nikos and Lucas Castigliano on the long-running daytime show “Another World.”

He also appeared in a more family-friendly role as John Stamos’ father on the sitcom “Full House.” Years later, Aprea reprised his role in the Netflix reboot “Fuller House.”

Aprea is survived by his wife and partner of 25 years, Betsy Graci, daughter Nicole from a previous marriage, and stepchildren Marika Parker and Valentino Graci.