[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 185 (Wednesday, December 10, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2362]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF MR. ANTONIO RUGIERO, SR.

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. THADDEUS G. McCOTTER

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, December 10, 2008

  Mr. McCOTTER. Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor and acknowledge 
the remarkable life and legacy of Antonio Rugiero, Sr. upon his passing 
at the age of 70.
  Antonio was born in San Giovanni Fiore, Calabria, Italy on June 18, 
1938. He attended the Peitra Fitta Monasteri in Cosenza, Italy and 
later completed his college business degree. In 1960, he arrived in 
America and two years later borrowed $2,000 to begin his pursuit of the 
American dream. With his funds, a small pizzeria named Roman Village 
Restaurant was born. With his incredible commitment to make his 
business a success, Papa Rugiero created a thriving business. His sons 
carried on Antonio's tradition of excellent food and premier service by 
opening Antonio's Cucina Italiana, named after their father. Four 
restaurants later, it is clear that Antonio's family has created a 
legacy.
  Antonio Rugiero, Sr. was a man deeply involved in the Detroit area 
community. He never hesitated to sponsor local events, such as kid's 
hockey teams, baseball and football teams. Along with supporting his 
wonderful family, Antonio was a community leader in contributing to 
charitable causes including Dearborn Heights Spirit Fest, the Feast of 
Saint Antonio, Dine Out Detroit, Breast Cancer Awareness, Diabetes 
Foundation and numerous others.
  On October 19, 2008, Antonio passed away. A beloved husband, father, 
and grandfather, he is survived by his loving wife, Enrica, four sons 
Patrick Attilio, Mark Luigi, Robert Attilio, and Anthony Rugiero, Jr., 
and ten grandchildren.
  Madam Speaker, Antonio Rugiero, Sr. was a man of great respect, a 
successful entrepreneur, and a loving husband and father. Today, as we 
bid him farewell, I ask my colleagues to join me in mourning his 
passing and honoring his lifetime of contribution to our community.

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