Obituary of Gino D'Ippolito

Gino D'Ippolito, 88, of Yonkers, NY, passed away on Monday, July 24, 2023. He was born on March 4, 1935, in Colledimezzo, Italy. He was a loving son, brother, husband, father, uncle, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. He was strong-willed, energetic, and his smile lit up the room. He was larger than life.

In 1951, Gino immigrated to Yonkers, NY but returned to Italy shortly after, to marry his faithful wife Teodora. The pair immigrated back to Yonkers in 1956. He began working as a carpenter, building up major infrastructure like the I-95 and Cross County Parkway. Gino was also devoted to the sport of soccer, and began a legendary career as a referee in 1963. In 1968, he was invited to the pros, starting in the NPSL league. Gino was also a FIFA Referee, a US Soccer National Assessor, and a MLS coach/mentor. In 1980, Gino was chosen to referee in the Moscow Olympics, but was prevented from officiating due to the US boycott. He would later go on to be an official at Pele's first and last games with the New York Cosmos, as Pele formed a relationship with Gino. He served as an official in over 600 NASL games and traveled to over 29 countries refereeing: including 15 World Cup Qualifiers for the 1978, 1982, and 1986 World Cups. He was also an official in 1,500 MISL/MSL/CISL games. Gino received many honors during his lifetime and the MISL even featured a Gino D'Ippolito Trading Card. In 2018, Gino became a cancer survivor. In 2019, Gino was inducted into the NISOA Hall of Fame and as of today, he is the only Westchester County Hall of Fame member with relation to soccer. He was the epitome of the American Dream.

Gino was predeceased by his loving wife of 62 years, Teodora (DiNatale) and his brothers Domenick (Madeline), Nicola (Teresa), and Anthony. He is survived by his two amazing children: Clara (Frank) and Dominic (Vincenza), as well as his three beautiful granddaughters, Gina (Robert), Gabriella, and Alyssa, and his great-grandson, Anthony, whom he adored. He is also survived by his many nieces, nephews, and cousins, as well as great-nieces and nephews. His legacy and his love will live on through all of them.

Visitation for Gino will be from 4-8 on Wednesday, July 26th at Sinatra Memorial Home, Inc., in Yonkers. A mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, July 27th 10 a.m. at St. Bartholomew's Church, in Yonkers, with entombment to follow at Ferncliff Cemetery, in Hartsdale.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Gino's name to Calvary Hospital by following the link provided below.

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