George “Georgie” Salvatore Giardina passed away peacefully on April 2nd, 2023 surrounded by his family at the age of 66 at Sarasota Memorial Hospital in Venice, Florida.

George was born in Brooklyn NY to Enrico and Rose Spallino Giardina. George was unmistakably a Brooklyn Boy. Growing up on the streets of NY gave him the resilience that carried him throughout his life with a fighting spirit that was ever-present. After moving to the SWFL area in the early 90s, he met his wife Rosanne and spent the next 30+ years together. Their commitment to each other along with their deep-rooted family values blended together creating an inclusive environment of love and support for ALL their children, grandchildren, and extended family members to gather and grow. As with most Italian families, food is always at the center of all things. Being surrounded by the people he loved most sharing a meal and the laughter and love it brought were his most celebratory and happy moments. Christmas Day Lasagnas or Sunday Sauces and the “who did it better” debates will not be the same in his absence but will live on in spirit. George cherished all of his relationships with each of his children and grandchildren in their own ways. However, he held a special place in his heart for his grandson Robert James (RJ). From the time RJ was born, their bond was instant and as RJ’s life unfolded, their relationship grew closer and filled George’s heart with overwhelming joy as the proud “Papa” he came to be. George had a unique personality. Rarely a loss for words or a piece of advice to share. He was quick-witted and direct. We would always say if he picked on you that meant he liked you. Even more so if he had a “special nickname” for you. It was just his way.  Although George presented a rough “tell it like it is” kind of demeanor, his true tenderness and giving heart always found a way to shine through.

George’s strong work ethic was a foundation for his successes and led him down many paths. His early vocation as an NYC Cab Driver was followed by a long career as a Customer Service and Sales Specialist in the Home Improvement sector and finally landed in the food service industry where he and his wife spent many years operating food concession trucks throughout the area (Italian Style of Course). His genuine nature, jovial style gift of gab, and of course his love of food, attracted a large following of regular foodies that he served with great pride. His love of family, food, and entertainment was a common thread in all he pursued. An avid sports fan, George’s enthusiasm could not be ignored. His excitement for his teams was infectious. Whether he was cheering for the Kansas City Chiefs, San Francisco Giants, LA Lakers, or the Boston Bruins, his presence was hard to ignore. A kid at heart, George enjoyed playing video games on every gaming system he could get his hands on, playing cards with friends, watching movies of all genres, of which he always had a massive library to choose from, and any chance he could get away, you would find him at the Casino where Black Jack and Video Poker were his games that without fail, always came home a winner. George’s big personality was felt by everyone that knew him and his generous spirit left a mark on all of those he touched. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

George is survived by his wife Rosanne Spina Giardina, Three daughters, Lori Marie (Larry) Sheppard, Jennifer Marie Giardina, and Nicole Marie Morreale; Three Sons Michael Christopher Giardina, David Paul (Molly) Morreale, and Mark (Shawn) Morreale; Grandchildren, Robert James (RJ) Bradley, JR., Aubrey Marie Snopek, Brittany Lynn Morreale, Kristen Marie Morreale, and Alexis Nicole Morreale, as well as, a sister-in-law, Victoria Giardina Wallace, brother-in-law Anthony (Maryanne) Spina, and several nieces and nephews which included guardianship over his nephew Anthony (TJ) Spina. He is Predeceased by his parents Enrico and Rose Giardina, and His siblings, Anthony Giardina, Charles “Charlie” Giardina, Louis Giardina, and Josephine Arroyo.

There will be a celebration of life gathering planned for a later date.

Arrangements by Roberson Funeral Home & Crematory Port Charlotte Chapel.