He was a good man who followed the rules but stood up for what he believed in, always took care of his family, and did not go gentle into that good night.
He also told a good story. He made a good, strong Manhattan, and could drink a triple espresso before quickly drifting off to a peaceful 10-hour sleep. His mother-in-law actually liked him. He was a proud American and a hard-headed Calabrese. He was a staunch Democrat and an active Union man, and fiercely loyal to his friends and family. He was wise enough to recognize that it was smarter to save for his daughter’s college education than for her wedding to “some bum.”He loved linguine with calamari, red wine, and anything sweet. Late in life he discovered peanut butter, Honey Nut Cheerios, and hot chocolate. His lifelong crushes were Renata Tebaldi and Sophia Loren (and his wife). He was happiest when watching Italian soccer, doing a crossword puzzle, or listening to the opera. He was the kind of man who introduced a 10-year-old to the opera by taking her to see his favorite, “Tosca,” even though all the characters die. That same year he put on ice skates for the first time, at the age of 50, to keep his daughter company at the ice rink.
He was always the responsible one in the room, until he no longer could be.
Rinaldo Staino was a great man, and will be missed by many.
His wife and daughter will bid him farewell privately. For those who would like to honor him, please consider supporting dementia and Alzheimer’s research.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
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