Anthony Joseph Piraino

Anthony “Tony” Piraino was born on September 8, 1921 in Riverside, MI, and passed away at his beloved Lake home in Benton Harbor on May 28th, surrounded by his family. He was 93 years old. Born to Gabriella and Michael Piraino, he was the youngest of three children. He was proceeded in death by his parents, his sister Theresa Cameron, and brother Jack Piraino. Tony married Doris Kraklau on October 6, 1951, and they have two children, Diane (Bruce) Dings, and Ed (Michele) Piraino. Tony has three grandchildren, Brad Piraino, Joey Callahan, and Kathleen Ernst, and six great-grandchildren. He also has special nieces Laura and Florence, and nephews Mike and Ronnie, as well as many, loved cousins locally and in Chicago. Tony was an alum of Hagar #6 School, and later, Benton Harbor High School. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corp to fight in WWII. He served in the Pacific Theater and New Zealand. He lived his life a proud Marine. Tony worked at Whirlpool Corp. for 34 years, most of those years spent at the Model Shop where he made many life-long friends. After retirement, he kept very busy volunteering his time with the North Berrien Historical Museum, We Can Ride 4-H Club, Sons of Italy, and the Berrien Senior Center. He was also a member of the Whirlpool Golden Eagles and the Tuesday Morning Breakfast Club. One of Tony’s favorite activities was working out at the gym. For many years he unlocked the YWCA’s doors at 5:00 a.m. to exercise. He was a member at Anytime Fitness until he was 91 years old. He enjoyed staying in shape and visiting with fellow members. He never met a stranger, and was always happy to lend a hand to someone in need. A Graveside Service will be held at 12:00 P.M. Tuesday, June 2, 2015 at North Shore Memory Gardens, 5027 M 63 North, Coloma, MI, with North Berrien Military Rites Team performing military honors. Arrangements entrusted to Starks & Menchinger Chapel and Cremation Services. Memorials may be made to Hospice at Home. Those wishing to share a memory of Tony may do so online at www.starksmenchinger.com.