Obituary of Albert Peter Gino

Albert (Al) Peter Gino died in his home Sunday, August 16, 2015. Al was the son of the late Peter Gino and Camille Grassi Gino. He is survived by his husband, Michael Henline; his sister, Janet (Wanda) Gino as well as many loving family members and countless, amazing friends. Al was born and lived most of his life in his beloved, native New Jersey. Al moved to South Carolina several years ago with his husband Michael, and although he remained a true "Jersey Boy' at heart, he quickly became an avid Gamecocks fan, and could be seen wearing his Gamecocks hat on many occasions. However, Al had impeccable taste, and was known for having hats and coordinating ties for every occasion including his favorite Countess Mara tie. Al was an extremely kind and compassionate individual, which was evidenced by his work as a Bereavement Counselor, both in New Jersey and South Carolina. Al was always available and willing to help others; he had an open door for co-workers and friends, and seemed to intuitively know when to reach out to others who were hurting or in need of a kind, encouraging word. Al also started a men's support group, and provided support well beyond the scope of his official duties. Al's work was his passion and ministry to others. Al Gino's life is a testimony to the fact that one life can truly make a difference in this world; his legacy is the impact he made in other lives which will be paid forward in the years to come. Al was a true "Renaissance Man" of many talents; he loved to sew, and created stunning wedding dresses for many brides over the years. Al also loved to cook, and enjoyed sharing meals he prepared with family and friends. Al was the consummate organizer and party planner, from the décor and theme to the menu; every event was a masterpiece in its own right. He especially loved incorporating "Miss Camille's" favorite meals and cocktails when planning events for family and friends. In addition to his devotion to his husband, Michael, Al's other two great loves were Opera and spirited debates. Al saved programs for every play and opera he attended, and his favorite piece of music was the duet from The Pearl Fishers. Al's reviews of movies, plays, and operas were highly anticipated, and who of his Facebook friends will ever forget his famous "Ravioli" rating system with deserving works earning the rare and highly coveted "5 Ravioli" or "5 Ravioli with a generous ladle of Miss Camille's gravy" ratings. Other works deemed below par would be ordered "Into the Ocean!" Al was also known for posting thought provoking messages on Facebook sparking spirited debates over social issues; his love of debate was widely known; however, Al was always respectful of differing views. A memorial service is planned to celebrate the amazing "5 Ravioli" life of Al Gino on Thursday, September 10, 2015 at 7:00 PM. Friends and loved ones will gather at Mount Hebron Lutheran Church, 2347 Summerland Hwy, Batesburg-Leesville SC 29070. (803-532-3044) https://local.yahoo.com/info-13393356-mt-hebron-lutheran-church-batesburg-leesville Memorials may be made to Hospice Care of Tri-County, 166 Stoneridge Drive, #100, Columbia, SC 29210 (803-400-1177) or, you can honor Al by performing a random act of kindness for someone in his memory. http://www.msa-corp.com/companies/hospicecareoftricounty.aspx