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Eugene W. Giuntoli
Eugene W. Giuntoli
Obituary
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Eugene Giuntoli Obituary
Born: Nov. 1, 1922; in Chicago
Died: Dec. 6, 2008; in Lakewood
LAKEWOOD - Eugene W. Giuntoli, 86, of Lakewood, passed away Saturday, Dec. 6, 2008, at his home.
He was born Nov. 1, 1922, in Chicago.
He served as first lieutenant fighter pilot in the U.S. Navy Air Force during World War II. He went on to work for the Cook County Highway Department as a civil engineer until his retirement in 1985. After his retirement, he enjoyed spending time with his family, friends and neighbors at his home in Lakewood. He was loved dearly and will be missed.
Survivors include his wife, Patricia nee Wright, whom he married Sept. 12, 1959; his children, Paul J. (Carrie Garlt) Giuntoli of St. Charles, Tina M. Giuntoli of McHenry, Yvonne M. (Glenn) Piening of Woodstock and Annette M. (Michael Trinski) Vesely of McHenry; his grandchildren, Kristina M. (Jason) Johnston, Phillip E. Giuntoli, Hope Czuba, Chelsea A. Vesely and Paige M. Vesely; his great-grandchildren, Paulie G. and Anthony G. Johnston; a brother, Rex Giuntoli; his nephews, Genaro Giuntoli and Giovanni Giuntoli; and his former sons-in-law, David Czuba and John Vesely.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Genaro and Mini Giuntoli; his daughter-in-law, Karen Giuntoli; and his sister-in-law, Carmelina Giuntoli.
The visitation will be from 3 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10, at Davenport Family Funeral Home, 419 E. Terra Cotta Ave. (Route 176), Crystal Lake.
The funeral and inurnment will be private.
For information, call the funeral home at 815-459-3411.
Sign the guest book at www.NWHerald.com/obits
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Yvonne
December 2, 2022
Remembering you, not just December 6, but every day, always. It´s been 14 years since you left us and you are still missed and loved so much, dad. I´m having a cup of coffee and a country donuts old-fashioned donut in your honor as I reflect on all of our wonderful memories. Thanks for being my dad.
Paul Giuntoli
December 2, 2021
Hi Pops. I need a haircut :) I wish you were around for me to give you one. Those were precious moments for me, and for you as well. I miss your advice when I had something bothering me and our military stories, some funny and others not so much. I hope you got a good barber up there. I will be seeing you when it's my time. Love You
The Son
Paul Giuntoli
December 10, 2020
I still miss you every Dad. I guess I always will.
Love You, Paul
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2007-2008
Yvonne Giuntoli
December 4, 2020
Yvonne Giuntoli
December 4, 2020
@ Cook County Highway Dept.
Yvonne Giuntoli
December 4, 2020
Yvonne Giuntoli
December 4, 2020
Yvonne Giuntoli
December 2, 2020
I may forget a lot of things in the future as I age, but my dad is someone I will never forget. My hero. Love is forever. ❤
Paige Vesely
January 31, 2017
June 08, 2009
"Grandpa, it is so hard to walk into the house and not see you sitting in your chair watching tv. I miss the handshakes you gave me, when ten dollars would just somehow be left in my palm. I miss you chasing our car down the driveway as we were about to leave all those years back. I miss seeing you sit in your chair at the dinner table, dipping your dessert into your coffee. You're the reason I actually do that now. I miss you telling us kids to stop fooling around when we were running around the house, even though you could never actually be mad at us. I miss your muscles dancing, and your teeth coming out. I miss the way you would be a total goof just to get a rise out of all us grandkids. Ever since you have been out of my life, I have seen pictures of your past, and memories that will last forever. I just wish you were here to tell me all the stories behind them. I wish I had talked with you more and learned things, or listened to your war stories. I wish you were here Grandpa. I love you so much, and I think about you every day. - Paige"
I wrote that for you almost 8 years ago. I'm sorry I haven't been back here to say anything since, but I've never been good with words. You've missed a lot, grandpa. So much. Things have changed over the years and I miss the strength that held our family together. That strength was you, and grandma. She's doing well, but I know that she's still sad and misses you with all of her heart. She is being taken care of so well by the family that you raised and she's happy most of the time. But still, I would give anything to go back and be a kid again just to be in the old house with you and the entire family for Sunday dinner. I miss you so much it hurts, grandpa. I think about you every day and have pictures of you all over my room. You're even the background picture on my phone and I have a picture of you hung up at my desk at work. I'll be 25 in March and just recently graduated a couple of months ago with my degree in Accounting and am now working for one of the top financial institutions in the world! Better late than never, but grandma always tells me how proud she is of me and I know that you would be too. I visit her often and love to hear her tell stories about you and see her face light up and smile with a little laugh whenever she talks about you. I really do think about you every day grandpa, and I wish you were here to see the family now. We need you so much. I need you. I really do wish that I had the opportunity to sit down with you as an adult over some coffee and apple pie to hear you tell old war stories or stories from when you were growing up. I wish you could see me now, grandpa because I just know that we would be friends and I wouldn't be some little rugrat running around your house slamming doors with the other kids. Luckily I have grandma and she really is my best friend. She still ridiculously spoils us and makes the most delicious food. I'm so grateful for her and I love her so much, just like I love you. You will always be in my heart, and I still do think about you every day. I miss you, gramps. Please come visit soon.
Love, your granddaughter forever, Paige.
December 8, 2016
Strange to be writing here because I never thought I'd have a chance to say thanks.
You met me many,many years ago when I was a young man trying to reach adulthood. In our few meetings, you impressed upon me how a stand up man should act as a father, husband, provider, and friend.
I watched, learned, and took these lessons to heart. Just wanted you to know - I noticed and thanks.
When I see you again, donut and coffee are on me.
Yvonne Giuntoli
June 24, 2015
Dad,
I love you and miss you, my guardian angel. Since you left us, I have felt you around me, and heard your voice giving me your always sensible advice, and encouragement. It keeps me strong, and on course. Thank you
June 22, 2015
Hi Dad,
It's been a long time since I've written here. The Guestbook was down for awhile, but now it's up for good.
Yesterday was Father's Day, and of course you were with me through the day- I had smiles and tears and it was a good day, if sad at times.
I wrote a little something for you and I posted it on Facebook. That's where everyone seems to gather now. Still, I will paste it here. I want it to be a part of your Guestbook.
I love you forever.
~Tina
~~~:~~~
For Dad, with love, on Father's Day, 2015
I am an artist. I create and I love to create.
As far back as I can remember, My Dad told me he wasn't creative. I never quite understood why he believed this about himself.
My Dad created dreams and desires. He wanted to learn to fly jets and commune with the clouds. He did just that.
He created a family and he created a Life for us all, working hard and never minding.
Dad knew that there were things he had to do and he did these things and he never complained.
That was a part of his creating a good example for us. To this day, we, all his children, have excellent work ethics.
Dad created lessons and memories and comfort and laughter, to name just a few things.
Dad, I love you and I respect you to no end, and you know that.
But on one point, you were wrong.
You see, you WERE creative. You were one of the most wonderful and prolific creators I have ever known.
You created all these things and more, including a sense of deep gratitude, which leads and guides me through my Life.
Thank you, Dad. You have created more than you will ever know.
Your creations have affected and changed lives and they continue to do so,
in beautiful ripples that sparkle and extend eternally through the lives of all those you've loved so deeply and so well.
December 9, 2012
Dear Gene; It's been a highlight in my live knowing you and Pat and girls. You were one of the brightest of the Greatest Generation. Thank you for your service. I have now lost my own Old Soldier. We will never forget.
Rest in Peace, see you up there. Kay Lingenfelter
Happy times
December 4, 2012
Patricia Giuntoli
December 4, 2012
My Darling Geno,you left me four years ago today. And I miss you more each day! Your Children, Grandchildren and Great grandchildren are all doing well and you would be so proud of them all,and I want to tell you we are going to have a little Great Grand Daughter as well.I am doing good thanks to you and your children are taking good care of me.I will love you forever.Until we meet again. Patsy
Tina Giuntoli
November 25, 2012
Happy Thanksgiving Dad!
The family gathered and ate wonderful food and laughed and we remembered you, of course- and missed you so much. Annie made a slide show with lots of old pictures, most of them of you and the wonderful life you had here on earth. Dad, you sure did inspire a lot of laughs...
We also were missing Chelsea and Jason and Miles who were all away in other countries. Thanks to the technology of Skype, we were able to share a little time with them via a video feed. Mostly we just told them we love them and wished them a good holiday and made small talk, but you know, I don't think there was a dry in the place by the time we were done.
Dad, I want you to know how very much you were there with us for Thanksgiving. The love you gave to so many lives on in us. And we will remember that and tell our children of it and pass it along to them.
I am so very thankful for my wonderful life and all that I've been blessed with, but most especially for you, Dad, for you have been the greatest dad in the world. So please know that I keep you with me here in my heart, until we meet again one day. I love you, Dad. Seeya on the other side.
Forever Your Loving Daughter,
Tina <3
November 2, 2012
Hi Dad,
Looks like we got the Guestbook issue all straightened out. So I'm wishing you a belated Happy Birthday!
Love,
T
Tina Meegan
November 1, 2012
Happy Birthday, Dad!
Today you would've been 90... We all miss you so much and think of you every single day.
We just renewed this Guestbook, but all the old entries seem to have disappeared! I wrote to Legacy and I am hoping they can restore the original Guestbook, so people can come and read all the wonderful things people wrote about you here.
I hope that wherever you are you can still feel all the love that is felt for you, and know that you have touched many lives with your kindness and your goofy sense of humor, too. I'm keeping you right here in my heart, Dad, where you've always been, and I do truly believe that I will be with you again one day... I love you so much, Dad! Seeya on the other side.
Your Adoring Daughter,
~Tina
Navy Pilot- WWII. My Hero!
Tina Meegan
November 1, 2012
My baby Hope and Dad- Christmas, 1995
Tina Meegan
June 17, 2012
Happy Father's Day Dad!
I am spending my morning remembering you and all you meant to me. I'm going to add a picture of you and Hope to this posting, as I know Hope misses her Grandpa so, so much! Dad, you would be so proud of Hope- she graduated from high school with high honors, a full year early! May I give her a hug from you? I know you'd say "of course!", so I will.
Dad, I love you and miss you terribly. I know that you are here in my heart, as always, but I miss your hugs and your laugh and your words so much.
I know you want me to be strong and happy in my life, but today is just a little sad, Dad, because you can't come and sit with me and have coffee and cookies and just chat.
I know I will see you again one day, when my time comes to join you there in heaven, and that will be a most joyful reunion! Until then, I will try to keep my chin up, as you always taught me to, and when I have a good laugh, I'll hear you laughing with me. I love you forever and ever...
Happy Father's Day to the very best Dad that ever was- YOU!
Seeya on the other side,
Your Loving Daughter,
Tina <3
Tina Meegan
December 7, 2011
Hi Dad,
Thinking of you a lot more than usual today. Reflecting on that fateful day, three years ago, when God called you home to Him and you had to leave this world.
My life changed that day, Dad. I don't know why, but I guess that while you lived, I had never imagined life without you. I never really knew how much you had influenced the person that I had become, and how you were in so many of the little things I did through my daily life.
I seem to hear your laugh at the exact moment I know you would have laughed- I can hear your wise words of advice in my mind at the moments I am weak and afraid and don't know where to turn. I know what you would have told me, and it helps me along, and comforts me, Dad.
You are still with me, of this I am sure. And Dad, though I know you had to go home to God on that day, three years ago, I do also know that you've never left me. For this I am so grateful, for you are so very much a part of who I am, that I could not be me without you in my mind and my heart.
The part of you that is with me now, is the love you gave me. And I have always known that love never dies. This love of yours that lives in my heart sustains me, and holds me together, on days like today, when I feel like I'm breaking apart, and crumbling under the weight of this grief.
I will continue to live as you would want me to live, Dad, full of joy and wonder and hope for each new day. And you'll be there with me, Dad, for the rest of my days, until the day when God calls me home, too.
I hold you here in my heart, Dad, this day and always, until the end. I love you so much.
See you on the other side.
With Love Eternal,
Tina
patricia Giuntoli
December 6, 2011
Hello my Darling Geno It has been three years today at this very moment that you passed away. You always told the children
if any thing ever happened (Take care of your Mother) Well I am proud to say they are all taking care of me, your children ,Grandchildren and son-in-laws are so kind and loving to me.And all of our wonderful Friends are so good to me. So my Darling every thing is good except the fact that you are not still here.all of out celebrations are in your honor. Love,Patsy
Dori Giuntoli
December 6, 2011
Gene, we all miss you very much, our thoughts and prayers are for you.
yvonne giuntoli
December 6, 2011
i think of my dad a lot each day, and the last three years have been a difficult time of transition in my life, not only by losing him, but starting a new life and a new home. I have run into many challenges, and always felt that when i talk to him, he is near. I know this because when i have a dilemma or something in my home I struggle to fix, the solution suddenly comes to me, or works out somehow. His love is, and has always been with his family, and knowing that gives me the strength to get through anything. Thank you Daddy, I love you always.
special thanks to all of our family and friends who have made entries in this guest book. your kind words mean so much to us!
Chelsea Vesely
December 5, 2011
We all miss you Grandpa! We are always telling funny stories and going through old pictures of the family and you. Love you, Chelsea
George Nejmeh
December 5, 2011
Mr G, you are a very missed and admired man! You have created and left a great legacy. Your family are such wonderful people. I'm proud to call them my friends. God Bless all!
Kevin Meegan
December 4, 2011
I keep hearing more and more wonderful stories about you Geno. It just makes me wish I had known you more before getting married to your number 1 daughter. Rest in peace knowing that you are not forgotten.
patricia giuntoli
June 20, 2011
My Darling Gene, I miss you more each day.Every day gets harder...I hope when I leave this world I will be with you again.I will never stop loving you!
Yvonne Giuntoli
June 19, 2011
Missing my Daddy on Father's Day. I can see him sitting on the porch step by the garage, smoking his pipe and whistling at the birds. This image is forever in my mind, because that's where he was most of the time when I arrived at the house. It's pretty special knowing that whatever your age, your Mom or Dad will greet you with "Hey kid, how you doin?" In a way, I don't feel Dad has gone, he is with me always, and I am thankful for all the memories. I am also thinking of all the other Dads today, and hoping their children love and cherish them like I did mine.
Tina Meegan
June 18, 2011
Hello Dad,
Since you've been gone, when Father's Day comes around, I find myself feeling restless- like I don't know what to do with myself. I find myself so wishing I could just simply call you on the phone and hear your voice again... I miss our chats, Dad... and sometimes I feel so lost without you...
But you taught me that life goes on, and that we should be grateful for every day we have here on God's beautiful earth.
There have been so many gloroiusly beautiful days since you passed, and every time I notice a soft breeze swaying the branches, a shaft of golden sunlight breaking through the clouds, or the metallic smell of a summer rain after a hot day, I wish you could be here with me to share the experience. I wish we could notice these things together, smiling quietly and marveling at the wonders all around us.
You are one of the few people I could sit with in complete silence, finding no need to fill every moment with words. Your presence brought me peace.
I know you'll be with me on Father's Day, Dad, because you're with me every day, and for that I am so grateful.
Thanks so very much for my life and all the love and lessons you gave me. You're the best Dad in the whole world!
So, until we can sit together once again, I will hold you close in my heart, cherishing all the memories, and noticing the beauty all around me. For you taught me to do that, and you are with me, and as always,your presence, still, brings me peace.
Happy Father's Day, Dad.
See you on the other side.
I love you so much,
Tina
Tina Meegan
December 25, 2010
Merry Christmas, Dad!
Of course I have been thinking of you so much lately. December is a tough month now that you are gone. I carry you with me everywhere I go right here in my heart- where you have been from the very beginning of my life and where you will always reside...
Today the family will gather to hug and laugh and eat and play that funny White Elephant gift exchange game that used to make you laugh so much. I'll have my game face on, Dad, but inside I will be missing you so, so much.
I so wish I could just sit with you one more time so I could say all the things I should have said when you were with me here in this life. But all I have is the time we were given, and for that I am so grateful. I just have to believe that it's all going to be okay... Still, sometimes I so long for one of your wonderful hugs!
So Dad, until I can sit with you again and get one of those hugs of yours, I will try my best to live as you would want me to live- in gratitude for all I have and all the people who love me so much. I know life is short, as you always said, so I will honor your memory by trying to live my life fully.
Thank you Dad, so much for being in my life. Your presence there is among the greatest of the blessings bestowed upon me!
See you on the other side.
I love you forever,
Tina
Kevin Meegan
December 4, 2010
I'm so sorry I didn't get to meet you Geno. I've heard great things about you and feel that I know you anyway. You've really been an influence on Tina and thru her I've learned much about you.
I see the hurt in her missing you and hope to be the one to help her thru this hurt. I truely love your number one daughter and promise to take good care of her. She is my everything Geno.
I also promise you to do whatever I can to help take care of your beloved Patricia. She to is a wonderful woman.
Hope to finaly meet you one day when we're all together again.
December 4, 2010
Hi there Dad,
The snow is coming down this morning in a steady flow of tiny, sugar-fine flakes. Four inches on the ground here already- imagine how many flakes that is! If I added up every single flake and even added in all the ones that are still to fall today, the number would still be far less than the tears shed for you in your passing... I miss you Dad.
Monday the 6th will be the second anniversary of your "D-Day", as we call it. I will set aside time to look at pictures and smile and cry and remember what you have meant to so many people- so many...
Again, I thank you, Dad, for all you have given to me and taught me and meant to me.
You are my hero-
always were-
always will be.
And don't worry about all the snow. The love you gave to so many still burns brightly in our hearts and will melt away every tear.
Seeya on the other side.
I love you forever,
Tina
Yvonne Giuntoli
November 2, 2010
I've been thinking of my dad even more lately, as Nov. 1 approached. It marks 88 years since his birth, and brought back memories of so many years and so many great family parties with all of us together. I miss Dad so much, but every day I know he is still there if I need him, I just need to listen closely and feel him just over my shoulder. I know he wants us to remember him with joyful thoughts, not sorrow. What has really amazed me since he passed away is the number of people that I never knew who remember him still. They remember him because he was always so open, friendly, kind and funny to the people he saw in his daily routine. The children always found him amusing. It's kind of like dad was "Grandpa" to all the kids he met. I will give you an example from this past Halloween. (keeping in mind, 22 months have passed) Dad used to always hand out the treats in years past. This year, the doorbell rang, and Mom went to answer it for another group of trick or treaters. One little girl kept trying to look over her shoulder into the house. Mom asked the little girl what was so interesting to her, and the little girl replied, "I'm looking for that man." As you can imagine, Mom's heart dropped as she had to tell the little girl that he went to heaven. The child looked sad and said "oh" and walked away. It was very sad for me to hear this story from Mom too, but when I thought about how long that little girl remembered Dad and looked forward to seeing him, it made me realize how special he was to more people than we realized. The kids always loved him because of the silliness and laughter he gave to them. So, December 6th will be two years gone now Dad, but you're never gone from our hearts, and I know without a doubt, although I cannot see you, that you are right here with us, still watching out for your family. Love you always.
October 27, 2010
Gene, as a boy during WW II I was so proud that MY cousin was a NaVAL AVIATOR, always looking forward to your letters, I remember how you put your armround me to console me when my brother died, Thank you, Gene your cousin, Dave Giuntoli
October 26, 2010
Dear Giuntoli Family,
I just wanted to take a moment to let you know how very sorry we are for the loss of your Father. He was a very special person who we respected, loved and felt blessed to have had in our lives. You too have been very blessed to have been given the parents you have. I can tell by reading your entries that you all love each other very much and will be there for each other until the end of time.... WOW.
Truly you are all blessed. Thank you Pat and Gene for all the wonderful memories. We Love you!
Greg and Colleen
Patricia Giuntoli
October 25, 2010
Patricia Giuntoli
October 25, 2010
Patricia Giuntoli
October 25, 2010
Patricia Giuntoli
October 25, 2010
Patricia Giuntoli
October 25, 2010
Patricia Giuntoli
October 25, 2010
Patricia Giuntoli
October 25, 2010
Patricia Giuntoli
October 25, 2010
Patricia Giuntoli
October 25, 2010
Patricia Giuntoli
October 25, 2010
Patricia Giuntoli
October 23, 2010
Hello my Darling,It is going to be another year that you will not be here for your birthday. Oh! how you loved to have all your children over for your Birthday. and I would cook your favorite meal(Spaghetti and meat sauce) some one would always bring Apple Pie for you.We all miss you so much !! heres to you Geno I love you forever! Pat.
Dad, Rex & Nonno... 1945-ish?
Tina Meegan
October 22, 2010
Dad and Tina at Christmas, 1979
Tina Meegan
October 22, 2010
Tina Meegan
October 22, 2010
Hi again Dad,
Just thought I would drop in and write in your guest book today. We are coming soon to your birthday- November 1st. You would have turned 88 on this one...
I still think of you and I miss you every single day, Dad. So much of who you were is in who I am.
I have wanted to call you up for advice a thousand times. I talk about you all the time- ask anyone. I buy apricot coffee cake just so I can eat a slice, hoping that somehow you'll drop by and have some with me. Sometimes I dream of you joking and laughing just like you used to do, but when I wake, the joy disappears along with the dream...
I'm so sorry Dad, because I know that wherever you are now, you can feel the sadness in all of us. I know it must be heartbreaking for you as well, to have to leave this life you loved so much- and the people that made you love life the way you did.
But I believe we will be together again one day, and until that day, I will keep you right here in my heart, where you have been all my life, Dad.
I will remember every beautiful moment I could not share with you now, and I will tell you about them all when we can sit together at last on the other side- over some heavenly apricot coffee cake!
Unlil then, Happy Birthday, my wonderful Dad.
I love you forever,
Tina
Yvonne Giuntoli
December 27, 2009
Daddy, I thought of you Christmas morning as I was getting ready to go to Mom's. Tears came to my eyes when I felt the empty realization that I would not see you, and you would not be clowning around with us, as all of our nutty family does. We've sure had a lot of fun over the years, and that is one wonderful thing you helped teach me to do. A smile, laughter, good times are priceless and cherished forever. I also knew I would miss scolding you for slipping goodies under the table to my eagerly waiting dogs! I know that even Kodi and Pearl miss you!! Love you Daddy, see you later. Evie
Tina Giuntoli
December 26, 2009
Merry Christmas Dad!
Yesterday we gathered to celebrate the holiday and you were right there with us... As usual, we enjoyed each other's company, ate very well and laughed a lot- it was a good day. But I am still so painfully aware of this space in my heart where you used to be.
So I guess I just want you to know, once again, how grateful I am to have known you. From as early as I can remember, you have been my hero. Thank you, Dad, for my life and for all your unconditional love and all the wonderful memories you gave me. I carry you with me everywhere I go. Always will.
You are so much a part of who I am... and I promise to live -by your example- to be the best person I know how to be. I want you to be proud of me. Maybe it seemed like I was slow sometimes to understand the lessons you tried to teach me, but they sunk in eventually, and now that I am a parent, those lessons are helping me to be a better mom to Hope. Thank you for that.
I love you, Dad. I won't say "goodbye", just "seeya on the other side". Until then, I will keep you right here, in my heart, where you have always been, and where you belong.
With All My Love, Tina
Tina Giuntoli
December 4, 2009
Hi Dad,
I can't believe it has been a year since you passed... I have thought of you and missed you every single day since that day. I miss your hugs and your goofy sense of humor and your wise words. You have touched so many lives and we are all better people for having known you, Dad.
Mom is doing okay, but she still misses you too. I will do everything I can to look out for her. Christmas will be hard again this year without you, but we will gather and think of you and remember... Be there with us, won't you? Oh, I know you will. For love never dies. And love is what you gave- in such abundance that you taught me to love and for that I am so very grateful, Dad.
Merry Christmas! Seeya on the other side- I love you forever, Tina
Tom Podraza
September 27, 2009
Gino Man,
Thank you for the countless laughs and memories. I will always cherish the many nights that we spent watching the history channel together. Your narration made all those WW11 programs come to life for me. Learning how to load ammo was a real trip. I still giggle when I recall how often you got on my case for not accurately measuring the proper grains of gun powder to put in the cartridges. I hear your voice when I think of how often you reminded me how short life was, your favorite line was "You only live once my boy". Once a week for nearly 2 years I would call you from the cockpit, you would get on the phone and tell my copilots to keep their heads out of their butts and look out the window. I was so proud of you, and grateful that you were my buddy that I had to share you with all my fellow pilots. If we were not smoking stogies,having a drink together,and shooting the bull, then we were having coffee at Country Donuts or lunch some where. A good part of our friendship was on the lawn raking leaves together, and cutting the grass. I never could put the grass into those lawn bags up to your expectations. I admired how meticulous you where with everything that you did. You always were there for me and my family. You lent me your car many times,ran errands for me, I had a key to your house, when I was in Arizona you watched my house like a hawk. You gave freely of your time, talent, and love to me and my family. Your humor was hilarious,this picture reflects just one of many things that you did to crack me up. I will always remember you as a great buddy,mentor,teacher,and friend. Like my dad, I will never forget you,and I will cherish all the time that we had together...Tom Podraza
September 13, 2009
Darling Gene,
Yesturday was our 50TH. Wedding Anniversary , you didn't make it but we were all here on the back porch thinking of you. Crying and laughing at some of the things you use to do that made us smile. you will be in our Hearts Forever. I love you always Patsy
Tina Giuntoli
September 13, 2009
Hi Dad,
I spent some time with Mom yesterday. It was the 50th anniversary of your wedding (on September 12th, 1959...) Mom made a nice dinner of all your favorite foods.
As we ate, we talked about you and remembered all the dinners we had shared with you and so it seemed that you were there, sharing that dinner last night with us, too.
We all still miss you so much, Dad. They say that time heals all wounds. But I ask myself, "what wound is there to heal?" for you have never wounded me- not once in my life.
It is rather your absence in my life that pains my heart. You have filled my memory with such wonderful images- imprinted my character with all the best life lessons...
I can still hear your laughter and I am happy to say I have seen you laugh to the point of tears many times in your life! You taught me to laugh with my whole being.
I can still feel your kind arms around me, as I remember countless hugs of greeting, farewell, or "just because"... I miss them so much.
I have taken your many words of wisdom and done my best to apply them to my life. You have inspired me, by your example, to be the best person I can be...
So Dad, I guess I just want you to know that you are still here with me- every bit as much as you were before you slipped away on that fateful day last December.
I will continue to love you and remember you and share stories with your grandchildren and their children, too.
So don't forget Dad, that you were my first love and my Hero. You will live forever in my heart.
I love you, Tina
Tom Knapczyk
September 12, 2009
Alway thought of Uncle Gene as a stong upright man. As a child I remember the plesant smell of his pipe. And his encourging words to me as a young man.
Giovanni Giuntoli
July 6, 2009
You will be forever in my thoughts and in the thoughts of those that that you shared your time and life with. Whether it be only for a minute, you touched, inspired and gave happiness to everyone you came in contact with.
Diane McKenney
July 5, 2009
I will always remember him for the proud man that he was. He was a good neighbor to my family when we were growing up. I bet he's mowing a beautiful lawn in heaven.
Diane
Jewel Keel
July 4, 2009
Gene,
May you be with God always!! Our codolences to Gene's Family.
Love Always,Bryan and Jewel
Pilot to pilot, friend to friend
Michael Trinski
July 1, 2009
Geno, as I read through your family’s entries it confirmed the feelings you gave my family and I.
You are a first rate husband, father, friend, and Officer. I would like you to know that it would have been a great honor to have flown with you.
I will take our conversations about family, friends, and aviation with me every time I launch and we will smile for we are pilots.
I would like to leave this poem that another flight officer wrote about our feelings as we have soared like eagles. Only, we know we’re not eagles… we soar on angel’s wings.
PILOTS
Oh! I have slipped the surly bonds of earth
And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings;
Sunward I’ve climbed, and joined the tumbling mirth
Of sun-split clouds – and done a hundred things
You have not dreamed of – wheeled and soared and swung
High in the sunlit silence. Hov’ring there,
I’ve chased the shouting wind along, and flung
My eager craft through footless halls of air.
Up, up the long, delirious, burning blue
I’ve topped the wind-swept heights with easy grace
Where never lark, or even eagle flew –
And, while with silent lifting mind I’ve trod
The high untrespassed sanctity of space,
Put out my hand and touched the face of God.
USN,
Michael P. Trinski
From one pilot to another...
June 20, 2009
Dad, Rex, Nonna and Nonno
June 20, 2009
Our Dad
June 20, 2009
Thanksgiving 2007
June 20, 2009
Dad and Paul
June 20, 2009
Mom and Dad, Thanksgiving 2007
Yvonne
June 20, 2009
I’m not quite sure how to do this, -talk about my Daddy’s long life, but please bear with me here, and I’ll do the best I can…
I know I haven’t written anything here about my Dad until now. I have always had a deep sense of love, loyalty, and respect for all of my family. Every one of them means the world to me. Yet when I have lost someone, the words don’t always come easily to put on paper. Rather, they settle as a lump in my throat, a tear in my eye, a knife in the heart, even though I truly believe my loved one has gone to a very beautiful place. That is something that takes time to accept.
It is a big adjustment getting used to life without them, as no one could fill the place of any of us as well as each of us has. We are so unique, and so special and precious, connected, yet individual human beings. We are here for a while to teach, to learn, to compliment one another’s lives. Unfortunately, we are not born knowing that, it comes with life experience, and unfortunately, loss that makes us think about it in depth. However, that’s what this journey is all about. What is hard for all of us is saying goodbye and learning to live this different life without our loved one in it.
My memories of childhood are not as vivid as those of my siblings, so I rely on them to remind me of many wonderful and funny moments in our history together. I do know that I am very blessed to have lived in a home where despite our normal ups and downs of life, I knew that I was loved very much. We all were. And that is due to Mom and Dad giving us the life they thought we should have. They taught us right from wrong, how to laugh, love, work hard and play, and even when to stand up and fight for our rights. Mom and Dad shaped us as adults, and I thank them both very much because I don’t think anyone could have done it better. So, on this day, I honor my beloved father, and thank him for helping making me who I am.
When I was a child, I looked up to him so much. He was the big strong man in my life that set some high standards for any future man I might like to have in my life as a friend and companion. Dad worked very hard to provide for us, and I am thankful. I loved him very much, and even though he never really disciplined us, I feared him when I was in trouble. I guess that is about respect.
Now, we all know we love and respect our Mom’s too, but if she’s there trying to cope with you all day long, there isn’t going to be the same “fear factor” effect as when Dad gets home. Who hasn’t heard “Wait until your father gets home!” and then shuddered at the thought, because we knew we were in for it? Dad used to remind us that if he got into trouble, his Pa “made him dance.” And when Nonno whistled, he better haul butt home pronto! That was one of the things that made me know Dad was tough, because he survived Nonno, who administered the old fashioned tough love. And Dad tested it often, as I understand, but there was also a whole lot of love and family pride there that has been passed down through the years. I am very proud to be raised in Italian tradition and proud of my heritage.
Mom and Dad may have worked 6 days a week for a long time, but they also took us to Michigan every summer to be by the lake with the Baker family. (Those vacations gave me some of the most wonderful memories of my lifetime.)
I remember many trips to Kiddie Land and Hawthorne melody farms, where we always had a blast.
I loved that Dad took lots of movies and photos, and chronicled our lives. I think that memories are the most valuable and beautiful thing of all to inherit. No one can take those away from you.
Once I grew into an adult, I learned who Dad was from a grown up point of view.
Although I didn’t always agree with him, and we argued many times, I still respected him, and valued his opinion. I’m sure the arguments stemmed from being like him in some ways. We always made up though.
Although he always played the very strong male type, keeping much of his emotions hidden, I know that my father worried about me a lot, and loved and cared about all of us. He always wanted to help and give to us in any way he could. This was Dad’s way of saying “I love you.”
One last thing, thanks Dad, for the sweet tooth! I know I got it from you. I regularly have a cup of coffee with cookies for breakfast. I will always remember the passion you and I shared that is now hard to find anymore...The Heinemann’s Apricot Coffee Cake! Mmmmm, awesome!! I tried not to buy it every time I saw it, but you did. I knew if it was available and I visited, we’d be sharing it for sure, both in heaven!
I know that I’ve left out so very much, but these are the things that came to mind presently. There is so much more to say about this life of my father, but we will continue it in our family gatherings on Mom’s porch, at Mom and Dad’s house, where his spirit still warms our hearts each and every day, and makes us miss him so. He was blessed with a long happy life, and although so very quick and surprising to us, passed away as he wished to. He did not want to be bed ridden or suffer.
Dad, I’m sorry, they wouldn’t let us bury you in the back yard with the lawn mower like you wanted…ha ha. Also, thanks for your great sense of humor.
I miss you and love you very much, forever and always,
My father, Eugene William Giuntoli.
“Evie”
(You are the only one that ever called me that, and it was special because of that) Bye Daddy, I’ll see you on the other side.
Carrie Garlt
June 11, 2009
No words can describe how much Gino Giuntoli touch the lives of my family and I may he rest in peace and someday we will see you again.
Hope Czuba
June 9, 2009
Grandpa,
Remember when you used to candy as I was leaving your house? Each time I visited, I came with certainty that I'd be leaving with a bag of candy in hand. Once, when I was leaving, and you weren't there, I prompted you by calling "Grandpa! I'm going now!". Then you came, and like usual began the process of getting candy for me. First, you got a brown sandwich bag and cut it short, to make it easier for me to reach the bottom. Then, you would walk to the cabinet, which at the time was stationed on the ledge between the staircase going up, and the staircase going down. I would sit, wide-eyed as you asked which kinds I liked. As you asked about Almond Joys, I nodded in approval. And you added a few more to the plentiful assortment. In order to get the candy, I'd have to hug and kiss you, and I did. Then we left. A simple ritual repeated.
I love you Grandpa, Hope.
Sharon Belvedere
June 9, 2009
GENE WAS A WONDERFUL MAN. I RESPECTED
HIM HIGHLY. MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE.
AMEN
Paige Vesely
June 8, 2009
Grandpa, it is so hard to walk into the house and not see you sitting in your chair watching tv. I miss the handshakes you gave me, when ten dollars would just somehow be left in my palm. I miss you chasing our car down the driveway as we were about to leave all those years back. I miss seeing you sit in your chair at the dinner table, dipping your dessert into your coffee. You're the reason I actually do that now. I miss you telling us kids to stop fooling around when we were running around the house, even though you could never actually be mad at us. I miss your muscles dancing, and your teeth coming out. I miss the way you would be a total goof just to get a rise out of all us grandkids. Ever since you have been out of my life, I have seen pictures of your past, and memories that will last forever. I just wish you were here to tell me all the stories behind them. I wish I had talked with you more and learned things, or listened to your war stories. I wish you were here Grandpa. I love you so much, and I think about you every day. - Paige
June 8, 2009
Good 'ol days :-)
Chelsea Vesely
June 8, 2009
Hey grandpa,
I've been doing ok but I really miss you. It's not the same being at your house without you there. All the memories make me sad.. you are the coolest grandpa in the world and I always had fun with you. One of my fondest memories was when we would leave your house when we were little, you would chase our car down the driveway and that made me and Paige laugh so much... oh the good times. We all miss you so much but we know you are up there with the rest of our family that has passed watching over all of us.
Love you, Chelsea
Last pic ever taken of Dad...being silly of course!
Annie Giuntoli-Vesely
June 8, 2009
Pop, I am writing this today at Mom’s request. I never wrote in your guest book because I felt it was like saying goodbye. I will never, ever say goodbye to you! I wish you were here in body, but I know your spirit has never left. I hope that our family and friends find comfort in what I am about to write…
Pop, you are with me everywhere I go. I know you know this because you never left me.
Your picture is on my visor and I say “Hi Pop. I miss you soooo much” every single day… I know you know this because you never left me.
For some reason, I started addressing young people as “Hey kid”, just like you use to say to me… but, I know you know this because you never left me.
I think about you every time I am pruning trees. I can hear you telling me which branches to cut… I know you know this because you never left me.
I miss hearing you tell a story that you could hardly finish because you were laughing so hard when you were telling it.
I miss the way you smell. Thank God I have your robe and I hope it never loses your scent!
I miss you comforting me. I will never forget what that feels like to have you hold my hand or touch my face.
I miss hearing you say “I love you”.
I miss hearing you ask for dessert as soon as dinner is over.
I think about you every time I dunk something in my coffee.
On certain days, there is a scent in the air that reminds me of you even more than usual.
I think about you when I see my tractor (we never could get that damn thing to run right).
Every time I want to jump into something I can hear you say “Careful Kid. Fools rush in where angels fear to tread”.
When I pick up a tool to work on a project, I think of you.
I miss your “silly dance”.
I miss everything about you Pop. You are with me every second of every day that I am alive. I am a part of you and therefore you LIVE!
All these things, I know you know, because you never left me.
I will not say “goodbye”, just “Thank you”.
I love you… but you already know that.
- Annie
Tina Giuntoli
June 6, 2009
Been thinking of you a lot lately, Dad, and especially today- the six-month anniversary of your passing...
Yeah, I've been feeling down- missing you and knowing Mom and the rest of the family still can feel that ache in their hearts as well.
I looked at some pics and had a great big cry. Everyone believes that should help, but in the end, it really doesn't. I miss you, Dad!
Thank you for all the memories you & Mom made for me. You have given me such a wonderful life. You are a part of me, Dad, and you always will be. I will tell my grandchildren lots of stories about you so you will never be forgotten. The world was a better place for your having been in it...
I love you always, Tina
YOU AND I FORVER
Patricia Giuntoli
June 6, 2009
MY Love, today it will be six months that you passed away. but you are still here in my Heart.I will Love you forever
Patsy
PAT GIUNTOLI
December 28, 2008
MY DARLING GENE, CHRISTMAS WAS SO HARD WITHOUT YOU ,I MISS YOU SO MUCH!!
LOVE ,PATSY
Tina Giuntoli
December 25, 2008
Dad,
Christmas was hard without you...
I miss you so much and thought about you all day today. I truly hope with all my heart that wherever you are, you know that I love you and I always will.
Your adoring daughter, Tina
Your Son, Forever, Paul
December 25, 2008
I will miss you Pops, most of all our fishing trips and the things we laughed and talked about when I gave you your hair cuts. You are a good provider and a good friend, as well as a good Father.
Merry Christmas Dad.
Al & DEE Knapczyk
December 19, 2008
Dear sister Pat and family,
We understand your feelings of sarrow about your great loss.
What we remember most about Gene, is his pipe and his laugh, like his mother. We will miss him too. Love, Al and Dee
Kay Lingenfelter
December 19, 2008
Dear Pat, girls and Paul, You are in mythoughts and prayers. Eugene was one of the truly best personsthat I have known. He will always watch over you. Love,Kay Lingenfelter
Aurie Belvedere
December 19, 2008
I would like to express my deepest sympathy, and sorrow for your recent loss... Much Love, Aurie
Lisa Diaz
December 19, 2008
Dear Auntie Pat, Cousins Paul, Tina, Yvonne and Annette,
I remember the pipe, the strong voice, the witty character....I remember Uncle Gene and I smile. I wish that I had my father as long as all of you have had your Dad and again I smile. Uncle Gene was a blessing and he will be missed by many including me. I pray for your continued comfort and peace in knowing that he is in a better place, in a new body, with his parents and those who have escaped the chains of this world before him. I love you guys!!
Patricia Giuntoli
December 19, 2008
Dear Children,
I am so sorry you lost your Father,I know how much you all loved him He was a wonderful Father And loved You all very much. He was loved by many friends. I love him and
and miss him so much. LOVE MOM
Tina Giuntoli
December 12, 2008
Hello Everyone,
I just want to thank all of you for taking a moment to remember my wonderful Dad and to sign his Guest Book...
I miss him so much, but I do know how very blessed I have been to have had him for my father. I will think of Dad every day, for the rest of my days... Peace to all of you. Love, Tina
t
December 10, 2008
Mrs. Giuntoli and family,
I am so grateful to have know your husband and father. It was an honor to be in his presence. And I will cherish his memory in my mind.
Thank you for sharing these moments with me!
I pray the Grace of Jesus will be upon you and your family in the Name of The Father, The Son and The Holy Spirit Amen.
with love & kindness,
ron cornwell
December 10, 2008
tina and family. sorry to read of your loss. peace be with you. ron cornwell
Rick Lucchetti
December 9, 2008
We'll miss you Gino. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Pat and the family.
Susan Kallerud ( Henderlight )
December 8, 2008
Tina, I know its been a very long time, but my heart goes out to you for the loss of your father, my deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family.
Bob Denny
December 8, 2008
Mrs. Giuntoli and Family: I was saddened to hear about the passing of your husband and father. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Bob&Cindy Denny
Kim Piening
December 8, 2008
Yvonne & family,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. You will be in my prayers.
Kim Piening
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419 E. Terra Cotta Ave., Crystal Lake, IL 60014
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