Obituary of Peter J. Striano

Peter J. Striano, aged 89, peacefully passed away on May 29, 2024. He was surrounded by his beloved wife of 65 years, Caroline, his three daughters Marisa, Christine (Bruce), and Alissa, as well as his cherished grandchildren: Jessica, (Vanessa), Peter, Brian, Steven, Caroline, and Luke.

Born on May 1, 1935, to Mary and Vincent Striano in Ozone Park, Queens, Peter is survived by his sister, Rosalie Ruggiero, while being preceded in death by his brother Dominick in 2017.

Peter was renowned for his unwavering commitment to his beloved family, particularly his loving wife, Caroline. Their legendary bond was brimming with love, treasured moments, and served as a strong foundation that extended to their daughters, grandchildren, and families. Peter & Caroline raised their three daughters in Manhasset, Long Island, and cultivated enduring friendships, notably at Strathmore Vanderbilt Country Club, where he served two terms as president.

A patriarch characterized by profound conviction, strength, and discipline, Peter was the founder of Unity International, a distinguished international electrical contracting and technology business. His establishment of Unity International was a testament to his perseverance, energy, and tireless pursuit of excellence. Within the electrical industry, Peter was esteemed not only for his business acumen but also for his mentorship. He took immense pride in nurturing and guiding every individual within his leadership, leaving an enduring impact on all those who had the privilege of working beside him. Hailing from humble beginnings, Peter valued inclusivity, ensuring that all shared in the prosperity he achieved. His unparalleled generosity stood as a testament to his character, leaving an indelible impression on all whose lives he touched.

Peter epitomized the philosophy that "we make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." Throughout his life, Peter embodied this principle with an unwavering spirit of generosity. His philanthropic endeavors earned him recognition from prestigious organizations such as Catholic Charities of Brooklyn and Queens, where he served as a Board Member from 1985 to 2020 and as a Board of Trustee Emeritus from 2021 onwards. Additionally, he extended his generosity to Boys and Girls Town of Italy, Sisters of Light, and Ava Maria University. Peter also held his Italian heritage dear and was a devoted member and President of the Tiro A Segno from 1988 to 1990 and 1994 to 1997. A visionary at heart, he found deep fulfillment in creative endeavors, especially charitable construction projects. In his later career and retirement, he channeled his passion for design and lighting, making a lasting impact through projects like Ave Maria's Oratory in Naples, Florida, a spiritual cornerstone in the community, and the future illumination of Ava Maria's baseball field. Peter's commitment to giving back and improving the lives of others through his skills stands as a testament to his enduring legacy of service and selflessness.