Carlo Gamibo, 74, of Massapequa, New York, passed away on October 15, 1976. Carlo was born on August 24, 1902. He is remembered always for his friendly grin, courteous soul, and sharp wit.
Gambino was always a kind and supportive community member. Every year he would host a Fourth of July Festival at his Massapequa home. The affair would be complete with fireworks, food, and friendly conversation. Gambino was always connected with his neighbors, often seen taking weekend strolls around his Brooklyn neighborhood and frequenting the marketplace. Gambino was always available for a piece of advice or even financial assistance.
Gambino is remembered most fondly for his devotion to his family. His wife and first cousin, Katheryn, sadly passed away a few years ago, but the two shared a marriage of over 40 years. Gambino celebrated Katheryn's life in a fashion fit for a queen: funeral complete with a parade and extensive security. The Gambinos had four beautiful children: Thomas, Joseph, Carl, and Phyllis. Gambino is remembered by his wonderful children and their spouses, especially Thomas and his wife, Frances.
Gambino left a legacy never to be forgotten, not just in New York, but nationwide. He built his way up, from life as a teenage hitman in Palermo to quick success in New York. Gambino originally worked for Salvatore Maranzano with his Castellano relatives in the liquor business, soon controlling the entire waterfront and labor unions in New York and New Jersey. Gambino's cunning was admired nationwide. He ran million dollar operations in the John F. Kennedy Airport, trucking and construction industries and the garment district. He was part of the original five Cosa Nostra families in New York, eventually crowned boss of the formerly Manganzo family, a title he held for 19 years. The family was even named Gambino after Carlo's fame and power. Gambino was the unofficial chair of the Mafia's Commission and held ties across the nation—from New England to Florida, Chicago, and even California. In addition to his great power, Gambino truly cared about those who worked for him. In fact, he even warned his people not to deal in narcotics for fear they would face long sentences. Gambino always encouraged the lack of telephones, bank accounts, and paper records so that his work wouldn't leave a trail. Gambino was clever, powerful, and looked out for those around him.
Additionally, Gambino managed to (mostly) escape the federal government for his entire life. He was investigated by the FBI in the late 1950s for his illegal status in the United States as well as federal tax evasion, but the motion did not lead to jail time and was postponed due to Gambino's health issues. Gambino only ever served 2 years for illegal liquor operations in the 1930s.
Overall, Gambino's devotion to family and community as well as his impressive empire will be remembered forever. He is celebrated by his children and Castellano relatives, all of whom are deeply grieving Gambino's passing.
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