Marco James Grottano

Lisa, Tina, Mark, & families, My condolences to you all on the passing of a wonderfully warm humble and genuine gentleman. Mark was an incredible human being who I had the pleasure of working with for several years. He left an indelible mark on my soul…..how fortunate you all are to have walked this journey we call life with him. He will forever be with each and everyone of you. May the love of God, the strength of God, and the courage of God surround you all. With much love Carolyn

RIP Marco.From all the guys from AstoriaDominink, Nick , Louie. Ootzie, Angelo, Frankie, Joey,

I was 18 and a Phi Tau pledge when I first met Mark. He was one of the brothers who I wasn’t afraid to approach each day to get his signature in my pledge book, for 6 weeks of pledging. Not only did he smile each time, but, as Mat noted, he said something witty to put me at ease and build my confidence. I expect other pledges for the next three years felt the same affinity for Dapper Mark. That same year, I met Tina at a fraternity party, I think it was a pool party, and she seemed the perfect mate, so they became the darling couple of Phi Tau. It is easy to write my memories, because at post-graduation reunions, I always scouted for Mark. Who knew his name was Marco? I knew him as a brother who befriended me and gave me joy, and now tears, making it difficult to do the simple arithmetic for the ‘Captcha’ below so I can submit this without having to do it over.

During the Italy trip with St. Anthony’s, I fell in love with his personality-His love for his wife, his children, and grandchildren. What an amazing role model for all men!

Although I have not seen Marco in over 50 years, recent family tragedies allow us to commiserate with the Grottano family in their sorrow. What enables us to overcome the sadness is the firm belief that Marco is truly alive in Heaven and that one fine day we will all be reunited in Peace, Love and Joy.