Alessandro R. Gerardi

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Alessandro Rino Gerardi (72) of Cranston, on November 22, 2023, in Naples, Florida. Rino was born on August 10, 1951, in Pontecorvo, Italy. He immigrated to the United States in 1960 with his parents and sister. Rino lived a life filled with passion, dedication, and an unwavering love for his family and craft.

Alessandro was a Master auto mechanic who lent his skilled hands to prestigious establishments such as Gerardi International, Jake Kaplans, Automobiles of Europe and Providence DPW. His expertise and commitment to his work left an indelible mark on those who had the privilege of knowing him.

An avid F1 racing enthusiast and a skilled race car driver, Rino's love for the world of motorsports was unparalleled. He achieved a remarkable feat by building the iconic Stutz BlackHawk, for Elvis Presley and many other legendary celebrities, a masterpiece that he proudly showcased at the Waldorf-Astoria in New York. He was, along with his father, also part of the reason why fabled car designer, Giotto Bizzarrini, commissioned a one-off Lamborghini engined prototype, the P538, for racing in the United States. The P538 now lives in the San Diego Automotive Museum.

Rino is survived by his beautiful wife, Patrizia (Troccoli) Gerardi, and leaves behind a legacy of love and strength through his children: his son Peter Gerardi of Cranston, his daughter Stefanie Gerardi and her husband Daniel Ferreira of Cranston and his son Roberto Gerardi of West Warwick. He is survived by his dear sister Angelina Ferro and her husband John Ferro of Cranston, as well as his cherished granddaughter, Alexis Gerardi, who brought immense joy to his life. Moreover, he is warmly cherished by a multitude of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and more “daughters and sons”, whether connected by blood or through the bonds of chosen family. He was preceded in death by his father, Libero Gerardi, and his mother, Melinda (Pagliarini) Gerardi.

We fondly remember his unique and endearing "Rino-isms" that brought joy and laughter to all who knew him. His humorous quips and playful expressions were a testament to his lighthearted spirit and quick wit, leaving an inerasable mark on the hearts of those fortunate enough to share in his company. Whether it was a clever play on words or a witty observation, Rino had a remarkable talent for injecting humor into everyday situations. Friends and family alike were often treated to the delightful experience of his "Rino-isms," a collection of phrases that became synonymous with his infectious laughter and jovial personality.

Through his abilities to fix not only vehicles and machinery and household problems as well, he was frequently compared to the paradigmatic MacGyver. However, whether it was fixed or repaired, it was not considered “MacGyvered”, it was “Rino-fied”. An expression that, especially to those that knew him, meant something special had happened and, more than likely, was considerably better than the original.

As we bid farewell to Rino, we celebrate not only the person he was but also the laughter he shared and the joy he brought into our lives through his delightful "Rino-isms." May his humor continue to resonate in our memories, a lasting legacy that reminds us to find joy in the ordinary and to treasure the moments of laughter that he so generously gifted to us all. Rino will be remembered for his warmth, generosity, and the lasting impact he made on the lives of those around him. “Death leaves a heartache no one can heal. Love leaves the memories no one can steal.” May he rest in eternal peace.

His funeral will be held on Saturday, December 2nd, at 9:00 a.m. from the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME & Crematory, 1278 Park Avenue, Cranston, followed by his Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. in St. Mary Church, Cranston. Burial will be held in St. Ann Cemetery, Cranston. VISITING HOURS: Friday from 4:00-8:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the American Heart Association, American Kidney Fund or the American Diabetes Association in his memory.