Mario Bianchinotti, passed away on July 9, 2024. Born on September 11, 1937, Mario was the 3rd of four sons born to Santina (Rodi) and Marco Bianchinotti. He grew up in the village of Gorro in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, where he enjoyed playing soccer, riding motorcycles & roaming around “il Groppo”.
In 1957, Mario immigrated to Astoria, NY, where he met and married an Irish woman named Delia, who he married on December 26, 1964. They moved to River Edge, NJ, where they raised their family and resided for 47 years. They moved to Mt. Pleasant, SC in 2017.
Mario retired at 80 years old, after a career spanning more than 60 years at some of New York City’s finest restaurants, including Jimmy’s LaGrange, The Scoop & The Pierre Hotel. He was held in high regard by colleagues and clients who included A-list celebrities & politicians. He also served in the United States Army, where he received commendations for the “superior manner” in which he served his country.
Those who knew Mario describe him as a hardworking, honest gentleman. He was a man of few (often witty) words. He led by example, and had a demeanor that commanded respect. Above all, Mario was devoted to his family, and found great pleasure cooking family dinners with Delia, served every Sunday (at 6 pm sharp!). He thoroughly enjoyed spending time with his brothers, watching soccer, and drinking an occasional glass of homemade Grappa.
Mario was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Carlo (Bruna), & Lorenzo. He is survived by Delia, his beloved wife of 60 years, and their children Marco (June), Daniela & Gerard (Danielle); his brother Nando (Claudia), Lorenzo’s wife, Ada and many more in-laws. Nine grandchildren who adored him – Sean & Joseph Connelly, Marissa (his piccinina), Army Private First Class Christopher Hoag, Skyler Bianchinotti, Michael Hoag, Isabella, Gemma and Jordan Bianchinotti. He is fondly known as Mr. B and is the beloved “Zio Mario” to more than 30 nieces & nephews. Riposo in pace.
Visitation will be on Sunday, July 14, 2024 from 1 pm – 5 pm at the Beaugard-McKnight Funeral Home, 869 Kinderkamack Rd, River Edge, NJ. Funeral Mass will be 10 am on Monday July 15, 2024 at St. Peter the Apostle Roman Catholic Church 445 Fifth Ave, River Edge, NJ. Interment to follow at St. Michael’s Cemetery, Astoria, NY.