Book of Memories for Ettore J. "Sonny" Orlando

Condolence From Brandy Parisi

Thu, 24 Dec 2015 16:27:48 EST

Sonny doesn’t have to be enlarged now, greater than he was in life, but I wish that he be remembered as a sincere and decent person of true talents and the most genuine nature. He was utterly without guile. He possessed none of the dark cunning of manipulative people. Sonny never wore a policeman’s uniform, or firefighter’s or EMTs. No shield No helmet No gloves. The only uniform that Brian ever wore, was that of a decent man who loved his family and got up every day and went to work. You won’t see Sonny’s picture on the cover of Time or Newsweek or People proclaiming him a hero. Don’t look to see his story broadcast on 60 Minutes or 20/20. Instead, you need to look: In the eyes of his sons who adored him In the heart of his daughter who cherished him In the soul of his wife who loved him In the arms of his family who embraced him To see the HERO that Sonny was to all of us. I am proud to say that Sonny welcomed me into his family Frequently with sarcasm, often with humor, always with compassion. Sonny was always there to share triumph and tragedy, heartbreak and elation From the birth of my children, to the death of my parents Sonny’s quick smile and boundless heart embraced ALL who were around him. He was warm and welcoming. He was caring to the point of emotion. More than the “shirt-off-his-back” kind of guy, he would give you the enthusiasm of his convictions. If he liked you, you had a loyal and devoted friend who might even brag to people who didn’t know you about how terrific you were. If he loved you, he was all that and more: Part bodyguard, part advocate, part follower, part fan. For many years, we had lived on opposite sides of the country and saw each other less and less. And I took to describing him in different ways to friends and acquaintances, but always with one common detail: My brother-in-law has a great, big heart. I thought that summed up civility, kindness … even honor. That was him. Sonny could be generous to a fault and loyal to a point beyond that, but even these ostensible flaws are derived from admirable virtue. This is because his heart held his finest qualities. So he offered his heart first and always and to many. Yes, his heart was big enough for everyone.

Condolence From Kate

Thu, 24 Dec 2015 15:19:43 EST

I am so very sorry for your loss. Please find comfort in God's sure promise of a resurrection as set forth in the Bible. (Consider Acts 24:15; John 5:28,29) Those who are raised to life will have the prospect of never again being subjected to misery, sickness, or death. (Revelation 21:4) I hope that reflecting on these thoughts will give you some relief during this difficult time.

Condolence From Jami Huneke

Mon, 21 Dec 2015 19:49:09 EST

To all my Family.. we are all so sorry for the loss of our sweet Sonny. A loving Husband, Father, Grandfather, Uncle and Brother.. always a smile and warm hug to be given.. many hearts mourn your loss, but all were blessed to know and love you. My prayer for you Sonny , and for your family.. is that soon the memories will not bring tears of sadness, but heartfelt smiles the occasional giggle and fond story to be shared. All our love and prayers are with you. Love, Jami , Craig, Taylor and Devon

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Mon, 21 Dec 2015 19:40:20 EST

Condolence From Chris Parisi

Sun, 20 Dec 2015 15:48:09 EST

To my family so deeply sorry for our loss. Uncle Sonny was a loving husband devoted father and a great uncle. He will be missed but always remembered. Prayers be with you Love Chris

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Sun, 20 Dec 2015 11:36:19 EST

Condolence From Ed n' Chickie

Sun, 20 Dec 2015 11:33:06 EST

With deepest sympathies, no words can express our sadness but here are a few fond memories: ------------------------------------------- Early morning picnics @ Belmont State Park, Our dates together, Ed and Sonny missing the last bus and having to walk home… Together joining the Navy and spending weekends at Floyd Bennett Field All night Pinochle Games with Italian Bread, Salami, Yellow Mustard and watching Augie's beard grow Working together and remembering the Christmas Party at Lee Springs Beach parties at Jones Beach Weekend get away at Mt. Airy Lodge...yikes!! Howe Caverns and Cape Cod with the kids Midnight Mass at the “Idlewild Airport” Chapel Cherished memories and smiles forever in our hearts... Love, Ed n' Chickie

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Wed, 16 Dec 2015 03:28:16 EST