Louis "Lou" Gelsomino

83, of Johnston, died Monday, January 4, 2010 at Roger Williams Medical Center in Providence. He was the dedicated and loving husband of Mary (Ricciardi) Gelsomino for the past 58 years. Born in Providence, he was the son of the late Michael and Gelsomina (DiGennaro) Gelsomino. As an educator for 37 years, Lou was an arduous advocate for children of all ages. He was a disciplined and compassionate coach and counselor who embraced the good in everyone. Lou was a Teacher, Coach and Assistant Superintendant in the Cranston School Department from 1954-1967 and from 1973-1991. He was appointed Assistant Superintendant in the Portsmouth School System from 1967-1973. From 1980-2009, he served on the Board of Directors of the Cranston Hall of Fame and was the Chairman of the Screening Committee for applicants. He served as Scholarship Chairperson for the Providence retired Teachers' Association for 15 years. He was an active member of the Board of Directors of Gateway Healthcare, Inc. for 12 years. Besides his wife, he is survived by his loving children William and his wife Donna, Thomas and his wife Lisa, Richard and his wife Katie Gelsomino and Susan and her husband Gary Corseri. Lou was the grandfather of 14 and was the brother of Salvatore Gelsomino, Dora Zarli and the late Guido Gelsomino and Anita Salvatore. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday at 9:30am in St. Robert Bellarmine Church, Atwood Ave., Johnston. Private family visitation Friday 6-8 pm. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Robert Bellarmine Food Bank, 1804 Atwood Avenue, Johnston, RI 02919.

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