In Memory: Mario Nello DiStefano
Mario Nello DiStefano of Rye, NY passed away Saturday, June 15, 2024.
Born to Liberata (Demarco) Distefano (1906-1987) and Domenico DiStefano (1897-1978), Mario grew up in the Bronx completing his early educational years with The Carmelite Nuns and Irish Christian Brothers at Our Lady of Mount Carmel, and Cardinal Hayes High School, respectively. Mario enrolled in the United Stated Army during his first year at Pace University. As a Peace Time Officer, Mario pioneered new IBM systems and computer programming in Seattle Washington where he also under went special training. After his discharge he returned to the east coast.
Mario found himself riding the A train with his future wife and childhood friend, Theresa Serico. The two were married on January 22, 1966 and left the Bronx to build their lives in Ardsley, NY, bringing into the world, two children, Ruth and Douglas. Mario’s love for his children ran deep. He coached youth sports including baseball, basketball and soccer, and never failed to support either in their endeavors.
Mario’s pursuit of higher education resumed upon his return from the Army and throughout his adult life. Mario’s degrees of education include: BA- English (Pace University); MAT-ENG (Pace University), MS Reading (City University), MS Supervision and Administration (City University), M.Ed. Counseling (Leman College). Mario’s professional life was dedicated to educating young adults. He made connections in the classroom through literature and reading during his tenure at Evander Childs High School. To his role of Vice Principal at Cooperative Technical High School Mario brought with him the knowledge of his father’s carpentry / construction business where he served as his partner. Mario knew fine craftsmanship; he expected his student to recognize and produce the same. Mario always felt that his finest work in education was done at Saint Raymond’s as a counselor and Director of Counseling. Here Mario found fulfillment working with the students and staff of St. Raymond’s towards connecting students’ with their purposes. This gave Mario’s work great meaning.
Mario is loved by his family. He is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Theresa (Serico) Distefano, his two children Ruth (DiStefano) Trainor, Douglas DiStefano and their spouses Sean Trainor and Caitlin Trainor, his grandchildren Zachary and Luke Trainor and Evangelina DiStefano.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in Mario’s name to St. Raymond’s High School for Boys.
