Vito Gironda was born on January 17, 1926 in San Vito, Italy. He died at 87, peacefully at his home, surrounded by his family, on December 19, 2013. Vito ventured to the United States in 1947; like so many others in search of the American dream.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Anna Maria; brothers, Frank and Ralph; sisters, Maria Spano and Carmela Gironda; brother-in-law, Rinaldo Spano. His is survived by his devoted wife of 59 years, Maria; his sons, Frank (Pam) and Ralph (Debbie); five grandchildren, Marisa, Francesca, Vito, Jessacca and Joseph Gironda; sisters-in-law, Elisabetta Sinopoli, Mary Gironda, Pina Procoppio; brother-in-law, Sam (Mary) Barbieri; and many nieces and nephews.

Vito retired from Vito Gironda Construction Company, the business he began with his two brothers in 1955. Although not a man of many words, he was truly respected by the construction industry for his knowledge and work ethic. That admiration was evident as the family endured tragedy on December 14, 1993. The absolute frailty of life was realized in a split second as Vito was involved in a horrific auto accident that forever changed the man we all knew and loved. The injuries sustained on that fateful day shaped the remainder of Vito's life and that of everyone close to him. Although, Vito was no longer the esteemed husband, father, grandfather or business owner that he had once been, he was still deeply loved and respected by his family and close friends. His faithful wife, Maria diligently cared for him. It has been often lamented that her relentless devotion is what kept him alive for the 20 years after the accident. She was portrayed in one grandchild's grade school essay as a "Living Saint." His grandchildren, so young at the time of the accident, did not retain any significant pre-accident memories of Vito. They instead have had a lifetime of countless recollections and stories of the strong, generous, humble, hard-working man we were all so blessed to have known. Vito's grandchildren loved and bonded with Grandpa in their own unique and special ways. We will always treasure the legacy of your memory. Vito, rest in peace.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 9:30 a.m. Monday, December 23, 2013 at St. Anthony Church, 83 Mosser Place, Akron followed by interment at Holy Cross Cemetery. Calling hours will be from 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday, December 22, 2013 at Hennessy Funeral Home (corner of York and Main) 552 N. Main St., Akron. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Anthony Church.