Message from Norman Wittkofske

I just read of the passing of Mr. Gradoia and am saddened. He was a great teacher, mentor, and overall person. My sympathy to his family. Truly a person to be remembered. So many memories. Norman Wittkofske

Message from Pamela Heffner Leone

Mr Gradoia was a very important part of my childhood. I can't possibly express my admiration and graditude. For my sisters and I, Simon lake was our safe place, and on some days the only place we ate. Not many principals these days would ask you if you ate breakfast and knew you were lying when you said yes, sending you to the nurse for crackers and juice. Not many principals would change a bandage for you or only give you definitions to write if you got caught skipping in the 6 th grade. He was kind and comforting no matter what situation you found yourself in. No principal I had after him has ever touched my heart or my life in such a way and I will be eternally grateful.

A candle was lit by Tara Fowler Burn on May 24, 2017 6:55 PM

Message from Bill Irwin

I spent one year with Mr. Gradoia, when he was a STUDENT TEACHER at Meadowside School, circa 1958. He made a tremendous impression on me -- as a very kind man with a great personality and sense of humor. I'm 70 now, and I have thought of him frequently over the years. He may have been [only] a student teacher at that time, but I remember him as one of the best teachers I have ever had. ... RIP, Mr. Gradoia

A candle was lit by Richard Shultz & Janet Dorr on May 24, 2017 12:32 PM

Message from Richard Shultz

The entire Shultz family wishes to send our condolences to your entire family.
You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Message from Frank Vespi

Dear Eleanor and family,
I am deeply sorry for your loss. Mario will certainly be missed by family, friends and former colleagues. He was a soft spoken gentleman, truely a professional educator.
You are in my prayers for a peace that can only come from God, that which surpasses all understanding. Frank Vespi

A candle was lit by Neil Ward on May 23, 2017 11:42 PM

Message from Jackie Pender

I am so sorry to hear about Mario. Please know you are in my thoughts and I hope you take comfort in family, friends and memories of your time together. Love, Jackie

Message from The Bochis Family (Rich, Donna Padovano, Kathy King, Pat Bochis)

We were so sorry to hear about Mario's passing. He will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers and with you all.

A candle was lit by CINDY RIFKIN on May 23, 2017 7:55 AM

A candle was lit by Patricia Meaney (Harvey) on May 22, 2017 7:17 PM

A candle was lit by Tanya Feliciano DeMattia on May 22, 2017 7:03 PM

Message from Tanya Feliciano DeMattia

Dear Mike and Christy - I am so sorry for your loss. I remember him at Orchard Hills. May you find comfort in your memories.

Tanya Feliciano DeMattia

A candle was lit by Stephen & Liane Case on May 22, 2017 6:09 PM

A candle was lit by Emil J. Fusek on May 22, 2017 3:10 PM

A candle was lit by Jacqueline J. Fusek on May 22, 2017 3:10 PM

A candle was lit by Go into the light in peace, Sheree Zwiebel on May 22, 2017 2:24 PM

A candle was lit by Kathy Gage on May 22, 2017 1:35 PM

A candle was lit by With Sympathy, Darlene Chulak on May 22, 2017 12:22 PM

Expression of Sympathy

A Love's Tapestry was sent on May 22, 2017

Our deepest sympathy. With much love, Arthur and Grace Cintron

Message from Jeanne Cox

I am so very sorry to hear of Mario's passing. He was such a great educator and lovely person.

A candle was lit by Judy Irwin on May 21, 2017 7:39 PM

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Dear Eleanor and family,
My very deepest condolences in your loss of Mario! I was shocked to read of his passing.
Very many lovely years were spent with him as Vice-Principal of Orchard Hills. His pleasant, calming, soft- spoken ways were much appreciated.
Mario will be missed by so many in the Milford School System and for good reason. Best wishes for finding peace, soon...
Loving wishes,
Judy Irwin

A candle was lit by Judy Irwin on May 21, 2017 7:31 PM

A candle was lit by Diana C. Simington on May 21, 2017 5:29 PM