Rufino J. "Fino" Cardillo

Mr. Rufino J. “Fino” Cardillo, age 81, of Utica, passed away unexpectedly in the comfort of his home on Saturday, April 19, 2008. Born in Utica on October 14, 1926, Fino was the son of the late Giuseppe “Joseph” and Judith “Julia” (Carlucci) Cardillo. He was raised and educated locally. A very proud veteran of World War II, Fino enlisted in the U. S. Army in 1945 while attending T.R. Proctor High School. He served his country until 1947 in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations as a member of the 11th Airborne Division, a parachute and glider infantry nicknamed “The Angels”. This division was involved in some of the most difficult missions of the war, and Fino earned several medals for his performance during his military service. In 2001 he was proud to receive an honorary high school diploma. On June 2, 1951 he married the former Beverly Giffune whom he referred to as “my bride” and “my darling”, and as best friends, they spent 56 years mutually devoted to each other. As a successful businessman, Fino, joined his brothers in 1947 at Lansing Body Works, and in 1953 they expanded to Lansing Auto Parts located on Broad St. With his spirited and fun-loving outlook on life balanced by a humble and easy-going personality, Fino enjoyed every day to its fullest. He valued his Italian heritage and traditions, but above all else, his priority was on his family and along with Beverly raising their 5 wonderful children. Till the end, Fino cherished and held dear his 3 passions: his family, his beloved cottage by the lake, and his fig trees. He was dedicated in his civic affiliation as past commander of the Disabled American Veterans Leo B. Wheeler Stars & Stripes Chapter #82, where he served 7 years as chaplain, and volunteered countless hours helping his fellow veterans. Fino is survived by his wife, Beverly; his daughters Rochelle A. Cardillo of Marcy, Gina M. Cardillo of Utica, Marisa A. Cardillo and Fiancee Matthew Brooks of Rochester; his sons and daughter-in-law, Joseph P. Cardillo of Utica, and Victor F. and Donna Cardillo of Westmoreland; he also leaves behind his special daughter and son, Mary T. Allanson and Timothy Wissenbach; and his grandchildren, the pride of his legacy, Victoria Lynn Cardillo, and Patrick John Cardillo, both of Westmoreland. Survivors also include his sisters and brother-in-law, Mary E. Utter, and Carmellina and Ernest Mear, all of Utica; his brother, Victor J. Cardillo and Joyce Howell of Vernon; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews; several cousins, with special mention of his nephews Michael Cardillo and Arthur Cardillo; and his niece Judy Mear Candella; his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Kenneth and Mary Giffune, and his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Rosemary and Allen Gilberti, all of Whitesboro; and his sister-in-law, Florence Cardillo of Utica. He also leaves his friend, Anthony “Amps” Dianna. He was predeceased by his brother, Pasquale “Pat” Cardillo; his niece Gayle (Cardillo) Wilcox; and his hunting and fishing buddies, Hank Panaro, John Spaziani, Guy Simbari, and Steve “Harp” DiRico. The family extends appreciation to Dr. Fred Talarico and Patricia Rosati and staff for their continued care; to the EMT’s who responded to Fino at his time of need; and a heartfelt thank-you to Fino’s many neighbors in Utica and at Verona Beach for their longtime friendship, love, and support. Visitation will be held Wednesday (tomorrow) from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial contributions in Fino's honor to the American Heart Association or to the D.A.V. Chapter #82; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Fino’s Memorial Service with Military Honors and Celebration of Life will commence on Thursday morning at 11:00 at the funeral home with Rev. Anthony P. LaFache officiating. Dad, thanks for being “One-in-a-Million”

Rufino J. "Fino" Cardillo

October 14, 1926 - April 19, 2008