Paul Salvatore Gionfriddo, of Muckego, Wisc., died September 30, 2021.
Loving husband of Margaret and father of Paul Stephen (Mary)-who both welcomed him to Heaven-and of Michele (Jon) Eiche; grandfather of Paul (Jessica), Peter (Nora), and Lydia (Ron) Eiche Ross; great-grandfather of Namine.
Paul was a distinguished Electrical Engineer for over 25 years with General Electric. He loved classical music and was thrilled when both his daughter and granddaughter sang opera. Paul was a proud WWII Veteran.
He loved to run; he started running at age 60 and ran his first marathon at age 65. Paul always credited GE as the beginning of his running career after they needed someone over 50 for Al’s Run. He participated and was hooked ever since. He was a proud member of the Badgerland Striders and will be dearly missed by all his running friends. He completed 50 states at age 80, often driving cross-country with his beloved wife Margaret. He qualified for and ran the Boston Marathon at age 80. He did not count his Ultramarathons in his quest for 100 marathons. He completed many 50K’s, 50-mile road races and 24-hour runs. His 100th marathon was at the age of 85. He went on to run eight more before his 90th birthday.
Paul learned self-reliance at an early age, and to the end he was reluctant to receive help-although he was always happy to give it. When Margaret was stricken with Alzheimer’s disease, Paul single-handedly took care of her. The two were frequently seen going out for coffee or ice cream together. He was loved by all.
Memorial Visitation to take place Friday, October 8th 2021 from 10-12pm at ST PAULS EV. LUTHERAN CHURCH (S66 W14325 W Janesville Rd, Muskego) with a Memorial Service to begin at 12pm.
Memorials appreciated to The United Performing Arts Fund or Friends of Lapham Peak State Park.
Posted in: Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Posted on: 2021-11-23
Link to original obituary: https://www.jsonline.com/obituaries/mjs051194