Obituary of Joseph R. Chini

Joseph Chini, 94, of St. Petersburg, FL passed away peacefully on November 21, 2025, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family. Born on November 2, 1931, in Syracuse, NY, Joe grew up with values that would guide him throughout his life-- humility, service, curiosity, and a deep sense of responsibility. After graduating from Vocational High School at 17, he answered a calling greater than himself and enlisted in the United States Navy. He proudly served his country on several ships, including the USS Taconic, Kula Gulf, Intrepid, and Lake Champlain. He was a First Class Radarman for eight years. His time in the Navy shaped his character, deepened his discipline, and gave him stories he loved to share with his children and grandchildren ... over and over again.

After completing his military service, he attended LeMoyne College, where he earned his degree in Business Administration and Accounting. His education opened doors to a long and fulfilling career in Accounting and Finance, but more importantly, it reinforced his lifelong belief in learning, perseverance, and doing things the right way. Joe was very proud of his first job out of college at Ernst and Ernst. From there, he worked at Carrier Corp, then moved on to spend the next 25 years at Camperlino and Fatti as Vice President and Comptroller.

Joseph is preceded in death by his parents, Rose and August Chini, brother Victor Chini, sister Gloria Martino, son Daniel Chini, and his long-time companion, Estelle Green.

He married Norma Dingess (deceased 2008) in 1958 and took pride in being a father to four children: Daniel Chini of Syracuse (deceased 2025), Tersilla Gregory of Napa, CA (Clay Gregory deceased 2023), Linda Chini (Joseph Gardner) of Evanston, IL, and Jennifer Hilger (Andrew) of Ellicott City, MD. He was a patient teacher, a reliable guide, and the kind of grandfather who led by example to his five grandchildren-- Andrea Chini, David Chini (Nicole), Jane Hilger, Sophia Hilger, and Henry Hilger, along with two great-grandchildren, Noah Chini and Elijah Chini. He is also survived by his sister, Dolores Bianchi of Solvay, NY and his companion, Karin Schmidt of St. Petersburg, FL.

He will be remembered for his integrity, his dry sense of humor, his love for sailing, bowling, fishing, art, jazz, and long walks in nature.  His favorite quote speaks both to his character and his wit: “It's better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak and to remove all doubt." He lived simply, loved deeply, and never forgot where he came from.

Calling hours will be 10am to 11:30am Thursday, December 4 at Tindall Funeral Home, 1921 W Genesee St. Syracuse. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12pm Thursday, December 4 at Holy Family Church, 127 Chapel Drive, Syracuse. Burial with military honors will follow in Onondaga County Veterans Cemetery.

 In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Salvation Army (give.salvationarmy.org)

His legacy of kindness, strength, and service lives on in all who knew him.