George Fino

The end of an Era… George John Fino, 98 years old, born February 22, 1925 in Bridgeport, CT passed away peacefully on February 25, 2023 in Milford, Connecticut. He was the son of Domiano Fino and Angelina (Scippa) Fino and was one of ten children, all of whom are previously deceased.

Our beloved Uncle will be lovingly remembered by his numerous nieces and nephews. George served in the United States Navy, achieving three stars and the Asiatic Pacific Area Campaign Medal the American Area Campaign Medal. During WWII George served in the Chaplaincy Office on the S.S. Pittsburgh Destroyer in the Pacific Theatre and Achieved the WWII Victory Medal.

After his honorable completion of service, he moved to New York City where he began his lifelong antique business. He travelled extensively throughout Europe on buying trips purchasing inventory for his shop to the delight of his many clients, including Jacqueline Kennedy-Onassis of whom he was proud to have as a customer. Over his 98 years, George lived in several beautifully appointed homes in New York, Beaufort, South Carolina and Litchfield County where he graciously entertained family and friends with his devoted partner Harvey Smith, creating wonderful memories for us to cherish. He eventually became one of the first residents at Heritage Village in Southbury, CT where he was active in the village community.

He was a devoted member of the unofficial men's local coffee shop “club” where many a tale was certainly exchanged. Uncle George was the consummate story teller and chronicler of our family histories and his own well lived adventures. These recollections are an enduring legacy among his nieces and nephews. Besides his joy of birdwatching, George was a lifelong animal lover.

Memorial donations may be made in his name to The Connecticut Audubon Coastal Center at Milford Point located at 1 Milford Point Road, Milford, CT, 06460. ctaudubon.org/coastal-center-at-milfordpoint

At his request, there will be no calling hours or funeral service; his cremains will be distributed at sea, by the Navy at a future date. His family wishes to say a special thank you and acknowledge the staff of Carriage Green at Milford Senior Living, for their compassionate care of George during his residency there.

George John Fino was a true gentleman, a devoted son, caring brother, warm and generous Uncle and will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him