CLINTON - Ferruccio Fornero passed away on Wednesday, April 12, 2023, at 6:30 PM after a brief illness.

He was born in Turin, Italy on August 4, 1942, to Giuseppina Marietta and Enrico Fornero. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers: Elio and Danilo. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Mary Lester Fornero. Other survivors include Monica (Mario) Maccarrone; two great-nephews, Gabrielle (Federica) Maccarrone and Piermario Maccarrone; and sister-in-law, Marcella Fornero, all of Turin, Italy; and sister-in-law, Teresa Kortvely of Terre Haute.

Ferruccio immigrated to the United States in Clinton in 1962 and becoming a citizen in 1967. He worked for Al Gallo, The Wetterau Corp. The REMS Corp, Vic Bavaligio and Kirby Foods. His career spanned more than fifty years as a meat cutter and meat manager. The majority of those years were at the Clinton IGA.

In his life he had three loves - Clinton IGA, Golf at Matthews Park, and Mary Maria. Through the years he mentored many teens and young men who worked for him.

Along with their Queen of Grapes, Hailey Smith Christensen, he and Mary were honored to serve as Re and Regina of the 2003 Little Italy Festival or better known as the Reign of Rain. That experience has led to almost twenty years of special family friendship with Hailey, Darrell, Clara, Addie, Steve, Devan, Jace, and Mr. Smith.

Since 2003 Immigrant Square had become his pride and joy. He was dedicated to maintaining the vision that Joe Airola had. Ferruccio and his crew have succeeded in this endeavor. Last year was the 50th anniversary of that vision and dedication.

He was known as the dude to his two "Grandsons" Alston and Tanner Spires. He adored them and they were with him on his difficult journey. His "sons" were with him, too, Vaughn Brock and Jerry Sanquenetti, as well as special friends.

Ferruccio believed that we should treat people as we want to be treated. He always said that Clinton is a magical little town. He is part of that magic.

Visitation will be held at Giovanini Funeral Home in Clinton, Sunday, April 16, 2023, from 3:00 to 7:00 PM with Lions Club Memorial Service at 6:45 PM. A funeral service will be held at 7:00 PM at the funeral home with Fr. Joby Puthussery officiating.

Memorial contributions can be made to Sacred Heart Church or Matthews Park Clinton Golf Association.

www.giovaninifuneralhome.com