John R. Mattioli
John R. Mattioli, 86, a longtime resident of Stamford, passed away peacefully in his loving wife’s embrace due to complications from Parkinson’s Disease on Wednesday, February 24, 2021. John was born on August 6, 1934 in Brooklyn, NY, son of the late Harry and Anna Damato Mattioli.
John enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. and, upon his return, he married Lee and they settled in Stamford. Together they founded LEJO Construction Corp. which played a role in Stamford development throughout the 1970s and 1980s. John was a natural born leader. His work ethic was unparalleled, and highlights of his career include work on the Landmark Building, High Ridge Park and Stamford Forum Buildings, and the First Presbyterian Church Bell Tower.
Most important to John was his family. He was a devoted, respected and loyal family man and member of the community. He was revered and his intellect, strength and charisma drew many to him for counsel and camaraderie. He shared his tremendous experience, skills and wisdom with those who considered him to be a mentor. His indomitable spirit encouraged others to persist in the face of struggles and his generous nature and sense of humor were the cornerstones of countless joyous gatherings and lively debates.
John enjoyed many years fishing, boating, and golfing in Florida, often grilling the day’s catch while hosting family and friends. The competition on the links was intense, although wagers were generally settled for bragging rights. Those who worked with John may recall his personal credo that “speed counts” and many early morning foursomes were “played through” with the principal advantage of enjoying most of the morning with Lee.
John is survived by his wife and soulmate of over 64 years Angelina “Lee” (Lillo) Mattioli of Stamford, their children, daughters, Lynn and her husband Mark Forrest of Stamford, Susan and her husband Ray Higgins of Mahopac, NY, son Mark Mattioli and his wife Cindy of Newtown, CT, and daughter-in-law Laurie Mattioli of Woburn, MA. John is also survived by sisters Dorothea Martino of FL., Diane Portigiano of NY, and brother Joseph Mattioli of Stamford. John is survived by his adoring grandchildren Lexi, Dana, and Chelsea Forrest, Angelina, Juliana, and Sophia Higgins, John Mattioli III, Anna Mattioli and great-grandson Stryker Forrest, as well as many loving nieces, nephews and cousins.
Besides his parents, John was predeceased by his son John Mattioli, Jr., grandson James Radley Mattioli, and his siblings Anthony and Harry Mattioli, Anna Lambiase, Marie Mattioli and Beatrice Rispoli.
A memorial service celebrating John’s life will be scheduled for a future date (which will be listed on www.cognetta.com).
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in John R. Mattioli’s memory to seeingeye.org or a charity of your choice.
To leave an online condolence please visit www.cognetta.co