George J. Centauro

George J. Centauro was born in Brooklyn, New York to Rose Pisano and Luca Centauro on the 17th day of October, 1922. He was the youngest of 9 children: he had 3 brothers, Tony, Mikey, and Henry, and 5 sisters, Francis, Millie, Meme, Lucy, and Evelyn.

Following high school graduation, George’s call to service for his country came on January 4, 1943 when he entered the US Coast Guard serving in the Pacific Asian Theater during WW II. Over the next 3 ½ years he earned several service ribbons and medals while assigned to the USS Rhodes, a Navel Destroyer Escort ship. Following his honorable discharge, he returned to his family and friends in Brooklyn.

One day, at his favorite candy store, George met his bride-to-be for 68 years, Marie Pierno. Their eyes met through the mirror, they left the store hand-in-hand, and the rest is history. George and Marie were wed on October 4, 1947. They brought 6 children into the world: Rosemarie (Cheo), George (Liz), Maryann (Albert), Patty (Vinnie), Richie (Rosa), and Barbara (Anthony); and since that time, their family has grown to include: 11 grandchildren: Anthony, Dina, Richie, Joey, Patricia, Vinnie, Taylor, Sandy, Jennifer, Ashley and James; and 9 great-grandchildren: Joseph, Giana, Siena, Jonathan, Joey, Sofia, Isabella, Dominic and Mario.

Shortly after marriage George joined the New York City Fire Department where he worked for 14 years until an injury forced him into early retirement. Although he retired early from Engine 294 & Ladder 143, in Richmond Hill, Queens, he always cherished his days as a fireman. He was eager to share his experiences and stories with his children and grandchildren about not just his work as a fireman but about his life’s experiences in general. He loved telling stories and all loved listening to them.

After moving his family from Brooklyn to Richmond Hill, Queens in 1959, George and Marie (Mary) relocated the family once again to South Florida. They had a beautiful home in Margate from 1972-1995 and then moved to Coconut Creek. No matter where they lived, their doors were always opened to family and friends. They loved to entertain, the Italian food and traditions passed down from previous generations were prevalent in their home – the celebrations and gatherings were endless and all were invited; no matter how big or small their home was, there was always room and enough food for one more.

Both George and Mary instilled great family values in their children and one by one, each of their 6 children settled in South Florida with their families, living within 15 minutes of one another. George followed sports, particularly baseball. And, he was very fond of music. He could name any song and the artist not just from the 40’s and 50’s but all music right up to and including today’s top hits.

George is survived by his beautiful wife, Marie (Mary) and by all of his children, his 2 daughter-in-laws, his 4 son-in-laws; his grandchildren and their spouses; great grand-children; and by many nieces, nephews and friends.

Arrangements under the direction of Kraeer Funeral Home and Cremation Center, Margate, Florida.