Paolo was born in Genoa, Italy; he was the youngest of two children born to the late Giacomo De Martino and Paolina Canepa. Paolo was very proud of his beautiful country and culture. As a young man he attended boarding school at Colegio Calasanzio in Genoa.
He later moved to Havana, Cuba where he met his wife of 45 years, the late Margarita Puigserver. Due to political reasons came to the United States a country he idolized.
He settled in Raleigh, N.C. where he raised his three children. Paolo was a renowned chef in Raleigh, N.C. for 43 years: Piccolo Mondo, Café Tiramisu, North Ridge Pub and Cameron Bar and Grill. Paolo was a proud Italian who accomplished everything he set forth. He was hardworking, self made, independent, generous and a real charmer.
Paolo is survived by daughter and son in law Alina and Manuel Menendez; son and partner Rodolfo De Martino and Greg Sims; son and daughter in law Richard and Martha De Martino. He had four grandchildren who he adored; each one had a special place in his heart; Paul J. Menendez, Emma C. De Martino, Alec M. De Martino and Mia M. De Martino. He also had nieces and nephews that he deeply loved; the late Nick Rossicci, Loredana Rossicci, Alexandra, Anthony, Brandon and Nicole.
Mr. De Martino's family is extremely grateful to Transitions LifeCare.
The family will receive friends Monday June 25 at 9:30-10:30 am and a funeral mass follows at 10:30 am at Sacred Heart Cathedral, 200 Hillsborough Street, Raleigh, N.C. 27603.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Paolo De Martino to Transitions LifeCare, 250 Hospice Circle, Raleigh, N.C. 27607, or www.transitionslifecare.org
Arrangements by Brown-Wynne Funeral Home, Saint Mary's St., Raleigh, NC.
