Vincenzo Cotroneo, age 88 of New Brighton, passed away peacefully on November 30th.

In 1971, after retiring as an Appuntato of the Carabinieri, Vincenzo left his home in Sambiase, Italy with his two young sons. He embarked on a new life in America, settling in Minneapolis with his second wife Mary. In 1975, Vincenzo started a new career as a business owner, opening Vincenzo’s Restaurant in St. Anthony Village, along with Mary and his brother and sister-in-law, Joe and Maria Cecere. After 10 successful years in business Vincenzo retired. He spent his 31 years in retirement, gardening, playing bocce ball, traveling back to his homeland and most profoundly, cooking for and loving his family.

He was preceded in death by parents, Marco Cotroneo and Anna Scozzafava; siblings: Antonio, Maria, Concetta and Giuseppina Cotroneo; and the first love of his life Antonietta Dornetto.

He is survived by sisters, Caterina and Antonietta Cotroneo; wife, Mary Iaquinto; sons, Marco (Molly) and Dominic (Kristine) Cotroneo; grandsons, Aurelio Vincenzo and Micheli Jacob Cotroneo; stepsons, John Lehna and Tony Miceli (Linda); step and great grandchildren; along with many loving family and friends.

The family would like to thank all of the wonderful healthcare providers and the staff at Good Samaritan in Robbinsdale for their tender and thoughtful care. Vincenzo was the purest example of living an authentic life of humility, kindness, humor and integrity.

Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 6th at St. Charles Borromeo, 2739 Stinson Blvd., Mpls. with visitation one hour prior. Burial at Sunset Cemetery.