Gaetano "Guy" Pelino

Guy was born and raised in the mountains of Abruzzo in the small town of Introdacqua. World War II heavily influenced him, as the German army occupied his hometown during the conflict. As a teenager, he and countless others left for opportunities overseas. Guy joined his older brother in Venezuela for five years where he worked as a painter and played the oboe in an orchestra. The performances were often featured on national radio programs.

In 1957, his brother and sister-in-law introduced him to the love of his life, Natalie Venditti of Bridgeport, CT, who had emigrated to America with her family from Ripi, Italy. They fell in love and spent over 53 years together in a joyful marriage where they shared a profound companionship. They lovingly welcomed four children into their lives. Guy and Natalie were loving, devoted and supportive parents who put their family first. They fostered a beautiful home where everyone grew in love and in faith.

Valuing hard work and education, Guy and Natalie put all four of their children through private school and college. Guy worked as a laborer and painted on the weekends. He passed his work ethic on to his children all of whom obtained advanced degrees. One of his children’s earliest memories is getting a bank book and a library card, a clear reflection of his values.

Cherishing his role as the patriarch of his family, Guy’s dedication to his loved ones was evident in the joy he took in every family gathering. With his love, commitment to his family, and hard work he built a beautiful home, figuratively and literally. The town inspector called it the best-built home he had ever seen. Guy enjoyed playing the oboe, making homemade sausage, cooking minestra and polenta, the latter especially when it snowed. Guy was also a dedicated gardener, and his property was impeccably maintained. One of his joys was watching his grandchildren run from tree to tree to eat the fruit like they were in an orchard. They lovingly referred to him as “Nonno.” Guy was an outdoorsman who was in touch with nature and understood the unspoken language of plants and animals.

A patriotic American, Guy enjoyed in retirement his family, cowboy movies and cooking. He appreciated a good meal. He left behind a legacy of love, resilience, and unwavering faith. As a devout Catholic, Guy found solace and strength in his faith. His spiritual journey was a guiding force in his life, shaping his values and influencing the way he approached challenges with grace and humility. He was a long-time parishioner at St. Raphael and then at St. Theresa.

His spirit now joins his beloved wife, Natalie; parents Gina and Giuseppe; grandson Justin; siblings Elisa, Antonio, Rosina, and Marino; and other family members. He is survived by his four children: Elisa, Gina (Matthew), Joseph (Lisa), and Anthony; grandchildren Delphine, Christopher, Etienne, Elijah, and Jacob; and nieces and nephews. His grandchildren lovingly referred to him as Nonno.

Visitation for Guy will be held Friday, January 5, 2024 from 9:30 -10:30 AM at Spadaccino and Leo P. Gallagher & Son, Community Funeral Home, 315 Monroe Turnpike, Monroe, CT. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated immediately after visitation at 11:00 AM at St. Theresa Church, 5301 Main Street, Trumbull, CT. Guy will be laid to rest alongside his beloved wife, Natalie, in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Trumbull.