Damiano Ciminiello

Damiano (Ninuccio) was one of eight children born to Francesco and Concetta in 1932. A hard worker by nature, Damiano spent many years doing what he considered to be his life's greatest and most "fruitful" work; farming. Spending days, months and years in the "campagna" cultivating the golden crops of almonds and olives, Damiano raised a family of five in the small town of Toritto, in the southern region of Puglia. In 1974, Damiano and his wife Filomena looked to America as the place where they would raise their three daughters, Concetta, Pasqua and Teresa, hoping to provide them with many opportunities for their futures. His trade, not available in the neighborhoods of Brooklyn, led him to work as a welder for many years that followed. After several decades working in the auto-mechanic industry, Damiano retired in 1995, and began what would take him to just this past summer, the care for his own garden and its boundless harvest.

Damiano was an industrious man; to his family, he was the consummate "trash to treasure" phenom. Often taking on projects that should have been handled by experts, Damiano did not rest until the job was complete. His patience and methodical approach to a task is what neighbors loved about him, especially in painting the wrought-iron fences of the neighborhood. There was no cry for help that Damiano didn't respond to with care and selflessness. If a "hand" was needed by a friend, he would give them two. He will be remembered as a creative, fun loving and hardworking gentleman who loved family and loved sharing the stories of times gone by.

Damiano is survived by his wife Filomena, daughter Concetta Sandoval and her husband Fredy, daughter Pasqua Candelaria and her husband Jose, daughter Teresa and her husband Darren, and grandchildren Natalie, Alexandra, Jake and Daniel. He will be remembered by nieces and nephews, and relatives around the world.

A private ceremony for Damiano be held by his family only; the current universal pandemic event prevents the celebration of Damiano’s life with all whose lives have been touched by him. Please keep Damiano and his family in your prayers.