Vincent Gerardi

Vincent Gerardi (nee Vincenzo Giannetto Angelo), of Chestertown, MD was called from this life on Friday, September 10, 2010, from natural causes at age of 98. Born in 1912 in Bella, Italy, and to be the first of ten children, Vincent came to America as a toddler with his parents. The family settled in New York and in time the family grew to eight sons and two daughters. Vincent graduated with a BS from City College of NY in 1934, and later, honoring country and his mariner zeal he joined the US Navy. Five of his brothers were already serving in the US Army in different European and Pacific venues in World War II. Vincent served honorably in the 301st Construction Battalion of the Seabees as Boatswain’s Mate First Class in the Pacific theatre including the island of Peleliu. Miraculously, all the brothers returned from the war. After a successful career in commercial/industrial sales for The Fuller Brush Co. in NY, Vincent retired and moved to Easton MD in the early 1960’s to build his own home on the Miles River. For over thirty years in Easton, he pursued his love of sailing which later became seakayaking, and also became a very accomplished woodworker. Following the death of his wife Betty in 1999, Vincent later moved in 2004 to Chestertown where he continued to kayak, woodwork, read and lead a very active life. When he lost his vision in 2005, Vincent did not stop living – he adapted. To the amazement of all, he continued to carefully practice his carpentry, kept his mind active through books on tape, socialized in his community, and was a spirited and intelligent conversationalist. His will to live and sense of humor despite losing his vision in his early 90’s was remarkable and inspired all who knew him. While he became more dependent on the assistance and kindnesses of others, Vincent was most generous in expressing and showing his gratitude in return. He is survived by two sisters Rose Petraglia of Marietta, GA, Tina Gustafson of Springdale AR, brother Armand Gerardi of Marietta, GA, niece & caregiver Susan Petraglia of Washingon DC, step-son Lyn Slacum of Summerville SC, several nieces and nephews, and his cat “Ivan”. A visitation will be held on Saturday, September 18, 2010 from 5:00 – 7:00 pm at Fellows, Helfenbein & Newnam Funeral Home Easton, MD and on Sunday, September 19, 2010 from 4:00 – 6:00 pm at Fellows, Helfenbein & Newnam Funeral Home Chestertown, MD. A service will be held on Monday, September 20, 2010 at the Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church Chestertown, MD at 11:00 am. Interment will be held in Maryland Veterans Cemetery in Hurlock, MD. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Blind Industries & Services of MD “BISM”, 2240 Northwood Drive, Salisbury, MD 21801.

Vincent Gerardi

August 15, 1912 - September 10, 2010