Christopher Anthony Guarino

Dr. Christopher Anthony Guarino 87, passed away on December 14, 2010. Chris was the beloved husband of Gloria Guarino for 58 years and a beloved father and grandfather. Chris was a longtime resident of Tucson; his history of selfless community involvement enriched the world around him in ways both large and small. He will be remembered by friends and family members for his wisdom, humor, kindness and remarkable understanding. He was born in New York City on November 10, 1923, to Cristofaro and Rosaria Guarino, who came to this country from Italy as children and made their home in New York. Chris excelled in his studies, graduating with honors from Columbia College and Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. He served his country as a surgeon in the Navy, Army and National Guard. He married Gloria Jean Robins in 1952. In 1957 they moved from El Paso to Tucson, where Dr. Guarino started a practice of orthopedic surgery from which he retired after 32 years. He served as president of the Cerebral Palsy Foundation, president of the Pima County Medical Society, chief of surgery at Tucson Medical Center, and director of the Crippled Children's Clinic. He was a 25-year volunteer at St. Elizabeth of Hungary Clinic, and a 13-year volunteer at the Tucson Medical Center Hospice, where he volunteered over 500 hours. Chris Guarino was the first president of the St. Pius X Parish Council, and a founding member of the St. Thomas Apostle Catholic Church. Chris was committed to improving his profession and worked tirelessly to help ensure that medical care was available to all. Chris was a gentle and insightful man who was widely respected and loved by his community. His hobbies included golf, travel, bridge and gardening. He cared deeply about family, friends and God. He is survived by his wife, Gloria; his five children, Loretta, Chris, Gloria, Paul and John, and his seven grandchildren. The Memorial Service will be Wednesday, December 29, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. at EAST LAWN PALMS MORTUARY, 5801 E. Grant Road, Tucson. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Christopher Guarino's life and work may make donations to a charity of their choice.