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Emilio Gerardo "Emil" Infusino

1937 - 2025

Emilio Gerardo "Emil" Infusino obituary, 1937-2025

BORN

1937

DIED

2025

FUNERAL HOME

Maresh-Meredith & Acklam Funeral Home

803 Main Street

Racine, Wisconsin

Emilio Infusino Obituary

Emilio "Emil" Gerardo Infusino

January 7, 1937 - June 7, 2025

Emilio "Emil" Gerardo Infusino, 88, the beloved patriarch of the Infusino Family, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday morning, June 7, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Emilio was born in Castiglione Scalo, Cosenza, Italy, on January 7, 1937, to Pasquale and Carmela Infusino. He spent his younger years working alongside his family on their farm. Although Emilio was the youngest of four siblings, his wisdom and steady presence made him a natural leader, someone his family instinctively turned to for guidance and important decisions. He was an extremely intelligent young man with a forward sense of fashion. Little did Emilio know that the young girl he met in his childhood would one day become the love of his life. He married that once young girl, Ida Cairo, in Rende, Italy, on August 14, 1960. In March of 1961, they began their new life together in America, settling in Blue Island, Ill.

Facing the challenges of a new language and culture, Emilio stepped in seamlessly as the head of his wife's family and raised and embraced them as his own. As he established himself in a new country, he started working at Miller's Potato Company and then at Great Lakes Screw Company, in which he quickly became foreman.

In June of 1973, Emilio and his family relocated to Racine to work at a family business, DeRango's on Washington Avenue. Emilio continued his vision of owning his own business with a new restaurant which bore his name, Infusino's, located on Rapids Drive, on May 14, 1980, with his nephews Pasquale and Egidio. Infusino's became a staple in the Racine community, and an iconic establishment among the restaurant culture. This business embodied Emilio, and everything that he stood for: family, unwavering strength, determination, perseverance, and sacrifice. Emilio continued to be the driving force of the business for over 50 years as well as a mentor to many in the industry.

Emilio was deeply devoted to his wife and family. Emilio and Ida exemplified an extraordinary bond, displaying love, patience, and mutual respect. Together, they instilled strong morals in their children, especially the values of hard work, integrity, and faith. Their home became a sanctuary for many. As a result of their commitment and selflessness, their children and family were afforded many opportunities to which they are forever indebted.

Emilio and Ida loved traveling together, creating cherished memories on trips to Las Vegas, California, the Wisconsin Dells, Canada, and especially Italy, where Emilio reunited with his beloved parents, dear sisters, and other relatives.

Emilio had many passions in life. He enjoyed pheasant hunting, tending to his garden, and playing Blackjack at the casino. He absolutely adored playing Italian cards at the end of the night at the restaurant, where his longtime friends would gather. As a die-hard Cubs fan, Emilio supported his team through every season, whether watching them live, or on TV. He also had a deep appreciation for Italian soccer, enjoying matches whenever he could. He would delight in listening to Italian music, and he was a joy to watch on the dance floor, graceful, talented, and always wearing his million-dollar smile. Emilio was also a long-time member of Roma Lodge.

But above all, Emilio treasured time with his family. He enjoyed going to his grandchildren's events, football games, wrestling meets, basketball games, dance recitals, always showing up with pride and encouragement. Nothing brought him greater joy than being surrounded by the people he loved most.

Emilio will always and forever be remembered by his loving children, Carmela Infusino, who selflessly cared for him for over 10 years, Gerardo "Jerry" (Natalie) Infusino, and Lisa (Joseph) Chiapete. He was a proud and devoted grandfather "Nonno" to Mateo and Marco Infusino, and Gianna Chiapete; and a cherished great-grandfather "Big Nonno" to Viviana "Vivi" Infusino.

He is also survived by his beloved sister, Ida Aceto, of Italy; and his dear sisters-in-law, Ida Infusino, Donna (Egidio) Infusino, and Nella (Pasquale) Infusino.

Emilio leaves behind many loving nieces and nephews, Rosaria (Jerry Floyd) DeRango, Francesco DeRango, Nancy DeRango, Anthony (Brenda) DeRango, Dr. Giovanni (Katie Garza) Infusino, Egidio (Kathy) Infusino, Giuseppe (Gina) Infusino, and Ida (Angelo Abernathy) Infusino; as well as numerous cousins, extended family members, and many dear friends who will forever hold him in their hearts.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of nearly 55 years, Ida; his parents, Pasquale and Carmela Infusino; his parents-in-law, Annunziato and Rosaria Cairo; his brother, Giovanni Infusino; his sister and brother-in-law, Marietta and Saverio Aceto; his brother-in-law, Enrico Aceto; his sister-in-law, Concetta Cairo; and his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Giovanni and Filomena DeRango.

Emilio will always be remembered for his genuine love, his tireless devotion to family, generosity, and the invaluable leadership he provided throughout his life. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Rita Catholic Church, 4339 Douglas Ave., Racine, on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, 11 a.m., with Rev. James Presta celebrating. There will be visitation at the church on Tuesday from 10 a.m., until the time of Mass. Entombment will follow at Holy Cross Garden Mausoleum, Hwy 32. Relatives and friends may meet with the family at the funeral home on Monday evening June 23, 2025, from 4 to 8 p.m.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation and love to Emilio's loyal and dedicated caregiver, Jaime Larson, who became part of the family. Jaime cared for and loved Emilio as her own, and her kindness, compassion, and devotion will never be forgotten.

The family would also like to thank Emilio's additional caregivers for their kindness and care over the years: Catherine, Sandy, Irene, Joy, Racheal, and Breanna.

Lastly, a special thank you to the Hospice Alliance team, especially Cindy Love and Jackie Biloff, for their exceptional care, comfort, and empathy.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME

803 MAIN ST. RACINE, WI 53403

(262) 634-7888

Please send condolences www.meredithfuneralhome.com
Published by Kenosha News on Jun. 22, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Emilio Infusino

Not sure what to say?





6 Entries

Joy Keith

June 23, 2025

Joy
June 23, 2025
Unfortunately I didn't know Emilio in his younger life, but, from stories and photographs, I knew the man he was so I created my own photograph of this most amazing kind gentle soul that loved his family more than his own life. The sacrifices he made daily to leave his children such an incredible legacy! My memories are later on his journey. Somedays where all sunshine and roses and of course there were days when tears would roll down my face when he would say I Love You in such a little voice. I knew the days he wasn't sure who I was, but, I'd touch his hand and say Good Morning Sir....and out popped that smile....cause sometimes Sir meant more than Emilio or Pops...and so I am grateful for having the honor to have been chosen by his beautiful daughter And sister friend Carmella, to have been a part of Pops incredible journey for a few yrs...Bless you dear Sir Dear Pops...much love forever
Joy

Greater Glory Basket

Bill, Michelle & Gabriela Ianni

Sent Sympathy Gifts including Flowers

Rosemary Young

June 18, 2025

Emil was a giving, outgoing and wonderful friend to Jack and me for many years. Always a smile, hug and so genuinely happy to see you. Thanks Emil for the wonderful memories of you.

Robin Nordstrom

June 17, 2025

Jerry, so sad to hear of your Dad´s passing. I went to middle school with you. Your Dad built a wonderful business rooted in family and tradition. Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Jim Fumo

June 15, 2025

My condolences to the entire Infusino Family. Emilio was a great person ! Please keep the memories close to your hearts!

Jeanette LeBon-Lipari

June 15, 2025

Emil was such a sweet man. He always had a bright smile and a big hug whenever I saw him. My late husband and I loved him like a sweet uncle. He touched so many peoples lives. He was an amazing example of hard work and dedication to his family. My prayers are with the family for their great loss. RIP sweet man.

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Memorial Events
for Emilio Infusino

Jun

23

Visitation

4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Maresh-Meredith & Acklam Funeral Home

803 Main St., Racine, WI

Jun

24

Visitation

10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

St. Rita Catholic Church

4339 Douglas Ave., Racine, WI

Jun

24

Mass of Christian Burial

11:00 a.m.

St. Rita Catholic Church

4339 Douglas Ave., Racine, WI

Funeral services provided by:

Maresh-Meredith & Acklam Funeral Home

803 Main Street, Racine, WI 53403

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