MARIO MIGNONE Obituary

MIGNONE--Mario B., of Stony Brook, New York on September 9, 2019. Mario immigrated to the United States at the age of 20 and worked several jobs while earning his Bachelors of Arts degree at City University and Masters and Doctorate Degrees at Rutgers University. A Distinguished Service Professor in Italian and Italian American Studies at Stony Brook University for 49 years. Mario was one of the most popular professors, routinely teaching courses in lecture halls full of 200 plus students. For 40 years, Mario ran the Stony Brook program for students studying in Italy and, with deep connections all over Italy, always made the program enriching and fun for those students fortunate enough to participate. Mario's service to the State University system extended past Stony Brook. He served as Chairman of the Local Council of SUNY at Old Westbury where he led the local governing body of that institution. Mario was a brilliant scholar who, among other things, edited the prestigious Forum Italicum journal. In 1985, Mario founded the Center for Italian Studies at Stony Brook, where he successfully oversaw the programming of research in Italian studies as well as events and programs for the community. Our deepest condolences go to Mario's loving wife, Lois, his children, Pamela, Cristina and Elizabeth, his three sons-in-law, and his eight grandchildren. Commendatore Peter S. Kalikow

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Published by New York Times on Sep. 11, 2019.

Memories and Condolences
for MARIO MIGNONE

7 Entries

Selester Terry

September 6, 2025

Was just thinking of Professor Mignone a couple of days ago; did not realize his anniversary was coming up. Love and continued blessings to the family.

Selester Terry

October 9, 2019

My condolence to the Mignone Family; Mr. Mignone had been in my thoughts for several weeks, unaware of the reason why. Truly sorry for your loss...remembering his kindness and thoughtfulness as I worked closely with him in International Programs.

Jill

September 24, 2019

Mario will be missed more than my heart can say! Mario ~ my cousin through marriage and yet the times I did see him ~ he was my cousin. I must share that Mario's in-laws (deceased) have always been so proud of their son in law ~ you see I know this ~ for my ZiZi & Uncle Carmen have always spoken with such love & devotion. To Lois & my cousins ~ please know you are ALWAYS ALWAYS in my heart. I love you

Chet Mathews Saur

September 19, 2019

While I never knew Mario Mignone, I did know his wife in college. This is a note to say to Lois how sorry I am to get this news. The fact that it was sudden must make it even harder for you and your girls. I will keep you all and Mario in my prayers.

Josephine Esposito-Spina

September 14, 2019

Before he became a tenured professor, before he founded the Center for Italian Studies, before he was named Cavaliere by the Italian government, I knew Mario B. Mignone as a young professor at the start of his career at SUNY Stony Brook. I was probably one of his first students to graduate with a degree in Italian and Education. Shortly after meeting in one of his classes, he took me under his wing, encouraging, guiding and inspiring me. He was my most important professional mentor. Because of him I applied to the graduate program in Italian at Rutgers University where I continued my studies. During my undergraduate years at Stony Brook, we shared many wonderful experiences especially at Italian Club events, which he supported enthusiastically. I remember he would often recount the story of his immigrant family to students. He was so proud of their accomplishments and deeply grateful to his adopted country. In our private conversations and with great humility, he would always say his brothers had surpassed him professionally. I am moved but not surprised to read in the eulogies and testimonials of his family, friends and colleagues that despite all his professional achievements and honors, Prof. Mignone remained essentially the same person I had known at Stony Brook; optimistic, humble, intellectually curious, focused, diligent and above all, caring. Mario B. Mignone was a good human being who made a lasting difference while he was with us. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his cherished family. May your memories and times shared with him comfort and sustain you.
Sincerely,
Josephine Esposito-Spina

Biagio Mignone

September 11, 2019

My brother Mario has been very successful in his professional life as can be attested by his numerous publications, awards and other achievements. The accolades are justified but to me the non-public persona matters more. Upon arriving in America Mario, at a very young age, took on a leadership role and became the acting father to his six younger siblings. He worked full time to support the family and simultaneously attended The City College of New York (CCNY) as a full time student. Mario thus instilled in us a work ethic and sense of purpose which have served us well. These were lessons which could not be learned from a textbook or lecture hall. This is the legacy left behind by Mario which I will cherish the most.
Biagio V. Mignone, M.D.

phyllis isola

September 10, 2019

I would like to say that Professor Mario Mignone was a humble man, regardless of he and his family having all become professionals in America. They studied hard and persevered..........r.i.p. Professor.......my deepest condolences go out to the entire Mignone Family and prayers. Dr. Mignone's brother, Giuseppe, Dr. Giuseppe Mignone, was our family physician for years.

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