Valentino Ciccone

Valentino Ciccone, age 92 of Norwalk, died at home on Wednesday, April 6, 2022.  He was the husband of the late Josephine “Pina” (Surace) Ciccone.  Valentino was born on July 8, 1929 in Solano, Italy, the son of the late Rocco and Rosa (Favano) Ciccone.

Valentino is survived by his children George Ciccone (Lisa), Rose Rich (late John), Giovanna “Jenny” Gordon and Guiseppina “Josie” Parin, sister-in-laws Nancy Surace and Mary Ladogana, 10 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He was also predeceased by his grandson Michael Bunting and 8 siblings; Antonio, Frank, Pat, Rocco, Serafina, Rose, Guiseppina and Maria. 

Born and raised in Solano, Italy, Valentino’s one true love was his wife Josephine who, upon meeting her the day she was born, the small boy declared that he would marry her. Valentino had many other fond recollections of his childhood in Italy, from cutting the ends of curing sausages and hiding them in his guitar to share with friends, to the arduous journey down the mountain to swim in the clear green waters of the Mediterranean.

A lifelong musician, Valentino played accordion, guitar and the bass with friends and in bands with his brothers from Italy to Canada and Connecticut. His faith was also an important part of his life, especially his devotion to Saint George, who he eventually named his plaster studio after.

Valentino became a master plasterer and started St. Giorgio's Studios in Connecticut, where his passion for creating ornamental pieces out of plaster brought him high regard in his field. His work would take him from the New York City area to Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic and Italy. One of his cherished projects was the restoration and ornamental pieces inside the church of his village in Solano, Italy. His works will live on in countless homes and buildings in the Tri-State Area including the restoration of Bascobel House and Grand Central Station.

Above all Valentino will be remembered by those who knew and loved him for his zest for life, his storytelling and for his laughter, which filled any room he was in. Valentino was an avid gardener, the fruits of his labors were frequently featured by Pina in their Sunday dinners. His specialty were tomatoes, zucchini and hot peppers - the hotter the better. 

He was a devoted father and doted on his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who will tell stories of their “Nonni” for the rest of their lives. 

Private graveside services will be held at St. John Cemetery and there are no visiting hours per Valentino’s wishes. In lieu of flowers, donations in his name may be made to the Make A Wish Foundation.