Born in Caccamo, Sicily on September 15, 1925, he was the son of Mariano and Concetta Prinzi. He immigrated to the United States, arriving at Ellis Island in 1929. He graduated from St. Gregory’s and Immaculata Schools in Manhattan.
He served with honor in the US Army during World War II as part of the 83rd Infantry Division’s defense of Europe. He was awarded two Purple Hearts and the Bronze Star for his distinguished service to our country. As a proud member of the 83rd Division Thunderbolt Association, he maintained a strong relationship with his comrades, attending their annual conventions for many years and served as the Association’s Historian.
Upon discharge from the Army, a chance encounter in New York City led to a fascinating career in the hardwood and timber business. He was employed by leading importers and suppliers of specialty woods, supervised timber operations in Africa and made frequent trips to Asia. He later was employed by the American International Hardwood Company as their U.S General Manager. In the mid-1980’s, John joined General Electric’s commodity trading group and eventually formed a consulting firm specializing in wood, timber and newsprint importing from Eastern Europe.
John was a loyal and faithful Roman Catholic. He was an active participant at St Martha’s Church in Sarasota and a member of the Knights of Columbus. His devotion and commitment to his faith was surely an inspiration to all.
More than anything else, John will be remembered for his presence and big heart. John had a genuine love for his immediate and extended family and many friends. He was always there to lend a hand. John enjoyed life and enjoyed living. Whether it was coaching a Little League team, completing a wood-working project, taking a fishing trip with his children, travels later in life or his regular golf games, he had fun and so did everyone else!
He is survived by his wife O. Ona Prinzi; son Robert and wife, Judy; daughter Deborah Golden and husband Michael; Grandchildren: Michael Prinzi and wife Patricia; John Prinzi; Lisa Prinzi; Marie DiPalma and husband Jared and their children Kate and Thomas; Joan Post and husband Charles and their children James and Grace; and, Stacey Mueller and husband Eric and daughter, Kennedy. He was predeceased by his first wife Florence Prinzi.
A funeral mass will be celebrated at Church of the Holy Spirit in Stamford, CT. Interment will follow immediately at Lakeview Cemetery in New Canaan, CT.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial donation to the Fisher House Foundation (www.fisher house.org) in support of their mission to provide comfort homes for military and veteran families while their loved one is being treated in a military or VA hospital.
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