Emilio “Emil” Gerardo Infusino

Emilio “Emil” Gerardo Infusino, 88, the beloved patriarch of the Infusino Family, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday morning, June 7, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Emilio was born in Castiglione Scalo, Cosenza, Italy on January 7, 1937, to Pasquale and Carmela Infusino. He spent his younger years working alongside his family on their farm. Although Emilio was the youngest of four siblings, his wisdom and steady presence made him a natural leader—someone his family instinctively turned to for guidance and important decisions. He was an extremely intelligent young man with a forward sense of fashion. Little did Emilio know that the young girl he met in his childhood would one day become the love of his life. He married that once young girl, Ida Cairo, in Rende, Italy, on August 14, 1960. In March of 1961, they began their new life together in America, settling in Blue Island, Illinois.

Facing the challenges of a new language and culture, Emilio stepped in seamlessly as the head of his wife’s family and raised and embraced them as his own. As he established himself in a new country, he started working at Miller’s Potato Company and then at Great Lakes Screw Company, in which he quickly became foreman.

In June of 1973, Emilio and his family relocated to Racine to work at a family business, DeRango’s on Washington Avenue. Emilio continued his vision of owning his own business with a new restaurant which bore his name, Infusino’s, located on Rapids Drive, on May 14, 1980, with his nephews Pasquale and Egidio. Infusino’s became a staple in the Racine community, and an iconic establishment among the restaurant culture. This business embodied Emilio, and everything that he stood for: family, unwavering strength, determination, perseverance, and sacrifice. Emilio continued to be the driving force of the business for over 50 years as well as a mentor to many in the industry.

Emilio was deeply devoted to his wife and family. Emilio and Ida exemplified an extraordinary bond, displaying love, patience, and mutual respect. Together, they instilled strong morals in their children—especially the values of hard work, integrity, and faith. Their home became a sanctuary for many. As a result of their commitment and selflessness, their children and family were afforded many opportunities to which they are forever indebted.

Emilio and Ida loved traveling together, creating cherished memories on trips to Las Vegas, California, the Wisconsin Dells, Canada, and especially Italy, where Emilio reunited with his beloved parents, dear sisters, and other relatives.

Emilio had many passions in life. He enjoyed pheasant hunting, tending to his garden, and playing Blackjack at the casino. He absolutely adored playing Italian cards at the end of the night at the restaurant, where his longtime friends would gather. As a die-hard Cubs fan, Emilio supported his team through every season, whether watching them live, or on TV. He also had a deep appreciation for Italian soccer, enjoying matches whenever he could. He would delight in listening to Italian music, and he was a joy to watch on the dance floor—graceful, talented, and always wearing his million-dollar smile. Emilio was also a long-time member of Roma Lodge.

But above all, Emilio treasured time with his family. He enjoyed going to his grandchildren’s events—football games, wrestling meets, basketball games, dance recitals—always showing up with pride and encouragement. Nothing brought him greater joy than being surrounded by the people he loved most.

Emilio will always and forever be remembered by his loving children: Carmela Infusino, who selflessly cared for him for over 10 years, Gerardo “Jerry” (Natalie) Infusino, and Lisa (Joseph) Chiapete. He was a proud and devoted grandfather “Nonno” to Mateo and Marco Infusino, and Gianna Chiapete, and a cherished great-grandfather “Big Nonno” to Viviana “Vivi” Infusino.

He is also survived by his beloved sister, Ida Aceto of Italy; and his dear sisters-in-law: Ida Infusino, Donna (Egidio) Infusino, and Nella (Pasquale) Infusino.

Emilio leaves behind many loving nieces and nephews: Rosaria (Jerry Floyd) DeRango, Francesco DeRango, Nancy DeRango, Anthony (Brenda) DeRango, Dr. Giovanni (Katie Garza) Infusino, Egidio (Kathy) Infusino, Giuseppe (Gina) Infusino, and Ida (Angelo Abernathy) Infusino—as well as numerous cousins, extended family members, and many dear friends who will forever hold him in their hearts.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of nearly 55 years, Ida; his parents, Pasquale and Carmela Infusino; his parents-in-law, Annunziato and Rosaria Cairo; his brother, Giovanni Infusino; his sister and brother-in-law, Marietta and Saverio Aceto; his brother-in-law, Enrico Aceto; his sister-in-law, Concetta Cairo; and his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Giovanni and Filomena DeRango.

Emilio will always be remembered for his genuine love, his tireless devotion to family, generosity, and the invaluable leadership he provided throughout his life. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Rita Catholic Church, 4339 Douglas Ave., on Tuesday June 24, 2025, 11:00 AM, with Rev. James Presta celebrating. There will be visitation at the church on Tuesday from 10:00 AM until the time of Mass. Entombment will follow at Holy Cross Garden Mausoleum, Hwy 32. Relatives and friends may meet with the family at the funeral home on Monday evening June 23, 2025, from 4:00 until 8:00 PM.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation and love to Emilio’s loyal and dedicated caregiver, Jaime Larson, who became part of the family. Jaime cared for and loved Emilio as her own, and her kindness, compassion, and devotion will never be forgotten.

The family would also like to thank Emilio’s additional caregivers for their kindness and care over the years: Catherine, Sandy, Irene, Joy, Racheal, and Breanna.

Lastly, a special thank you to the Hospice Alliance team—especially Cindy Love and Jackie Biloff for their exceptional care, comfort, and empathy.