Written and given by Grandchildren Matthew and Michael

Matthew :

Romano,or Nonno as he was affectionately known by his grandchildren - would have been happy right now. 

He would have liked the fact that his friends and family were going to be together all weekend; that there would be no shortage of food or wine, and that everyone would laugh, cry and recall their personal memories of him together. 

Growing up, I always knew him as an amazingly positive person.  The glass of wine was always half full, but could easily be refilled.

He loved to share jokes in his trademark accent, enjoy a good meal with family and friends, and emit a lighthearted energy that was felt by everyone in his presence. 

When I reflect back on my personal relationship with my grandfather, I have always known him in the most affectionate sense - as the class clown of the family. 

He was always the one to be misbehaving and joking around at the table - telling stories, filling his plate too many times, or interjecting a comical remark into the dinner conversation  - Always,  followed by an immediate scolding from Nonna.

But his innocent antics were consistently encouraged by lifting the spirits of the people he loved - and being surrounded by the laughs of his grandchildren provided an ample reward. That I am sure filled his heart immensely. 

My cousin Michael often recounts a piece of advice Nonno was famous for sharing  - "Mikey, he would say “when you grow up, and have a family and a house... make sure you have a big kitchen! Mike would respond "Nonno, why have a big kitchen?" - The answer being - "Because when family is together, everyone is always in the kitchen!"  

Michael:

Nonno's life was defined by the laughs and smiles on the faces of his grandchildren.  

He was not the type of man to count the calories of a meal, but instead counted the friends and family members sharing the table alongside him. 

"My way", a popular song by Frank Sinatra, delivers a powerful message to anyone that hears it.  It is one of my Nonno's favorite songs, and one he would often sing aloud in his best Pavarotti impression. 

Nonno lived his life his way.

He laid the foundation and provided the framework for a beautiful family to be built.  His lasting impressions are most evident in his grandchildren; Matthew, (myself) Michael, Jeffrey, Nicholas, Alison and Andrew.  We live and grow with a piece of his incredibly powerful personality in each of us, from our love of swimming, the ocean, almost all of us being lifeguards to cherishing the times we spend together upstate, during the holidays  hunting and enjoying the outdoors.  He is very proud of all of us and our accomplishments. 

So now, as the end draws near -  and Nonno faces his final curtain, I can be certain that Nonno lived a life that was indeed full - full of hardships and risk, incredible undertakings and sacrifice but also full of laughter and good friends (lifelong friends), good food and great memories. 

Nonno taught us to always maintain an optimistic outlook on life and to laugh as much as you breathe.  I cannot think of a more selfless man who truly lived for his family watching them grow and succeed in the land of opportunity.  He watches over all of us now and is always there to lend some guidance. 

"Enjoy your life..." he would say, "...and do it your way."

My Deepest condolences to Renata, Elizabeth ,Grace and the rest of the family. I will always have fond memories of our family getting together and the good times we had. And I'm really sorry for cutting the kitchen chair leg off. Say Hi to dad, Rest in Peace

BOBO & Family

My deepest condolences to you Renata, Grace & Elizabeth and the whole family. I have nothing but incredibly wonderful memories of all of you. I was so sad to hear of Romano's passing. I know how hard it is but know even though we haven't stayed in too close contact you all are part of my family. My prayers, my love to all of you.

From my childhood into adulthood it was such a pleasure to see your face because you were always in a great mood, always joking, always spreading cheer.  It was so clear how much you enjoyed living and how much you loved your family. You set an example and made it look so easy. You were one of the most beloved people in my life since childhood.  Today is the anniversary of my father's passing and I know that he and Benito have prepared a warm welcome for you. And there is some bittersweet good cheer in heaven while we mourn your passing here and I can console myself with that.

Romano I thank you for being a good man. You were my second father. I will always embrace all the great memories of the great life we all shared. Your smile and personality will always be a part of me. See you on the other side. Franco

OBITUARY

Romano Morelli

December 24, 1931 – July 19, 2012

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