Gino Guido Cortopassi went to be with the Lord on Friday March 5, 2021 after suffering complications from surgery with a broken hip. He was 90 years of age. Born to Guido and Felicina Cortopassi on June 26, 1930 in Arcata, he resided in Korbel until the family moved to Eureka in the late 1930s. He is predeceased by his wife Geraldine Cortopassi, brother Elio Cortopassi, his parents Guido & Felicina Cortopassi.

Gino attended Eureka City Schools until he graduated Eureka Senior High School in 1948. He then met the love of his life Geraldine Myers. They married in 1953 had 3 sons together during their 59 years of marriage.

Gino was inducted to the United States Army in August of 1954 and proudly served until August of 1956 as a cook in Germany and received the Army Occupational Medal. Gino worked at many jobs through the years. He was a baker for one of the large bakeries in Eureka early on until he met his mentor Les Majors of Eureka and began working for Les at Auto Parts & Glass on 3rd St. in Eureka. He would later buy the business from Les after he returned from the Army and name it for his own “Gino’s Auto Supply” located at 6th&F. This was the first of several businesses that he would be involved in during his lifetime. Gino always encouraged his sons to follow in his footsteps ofbeing self-employed, all of which would become successful in their own businesses.

After 39 years in the auto parts business, during which time he was fondly known at “Batman Gino,” he went into business with his youngest son and purchased Harbor Lanes in 1988. In 1992, at the encouragement of Jack McKellar and Jim Worthen both City Council members, Gino ran for a First Ward City Council seat. Even though he was defeated after a very heated campaign, his constituents were very proud of his efforts and encouraged him to continue on in being involved in City politics.

Also, during his tenure at the bowling center, his second son Curt saw an opportunity to purchase a limousine company and Gino again showed his support and became an active partner in Executive Limousine Service of Eureka. He always looked so dapper in his suit and hat while driving customers from one location to the next. Gino and Curt drove limousine for wedding parties, proms, birthdays, and just about every other kind of need.

Even though Gino never was actively involved in his oldest son Mike’s business, he was so very proud of the painting business that he had grown. Mike’s professionalism while painting peoples homes has always goes far beyond “excellent customer service.” At least that is what the bowling center patrons would tell Gino after his son had provided services for them.

In all his 90 years of life, and some 59 years in business, I’m not sure there is anyone that had not benefited from knowing Gino. He was a great dad and mentor to many. His pleasant smile and straight forward attitude is what you could always expect from him.

Gino is survived by his 3 sons, Mike (Katy), Curt (Elaine), and Gary (Bonnie). His Grandchildren Kacy Hunter (Travis), Eric (Rikki) and Sara Cortopassi. Greatgranchildren Loryn and Eryn Hunter. Nephew Steve Cortopassi (Susan) and their children Johanna Mowrey (Jim), Stevie Brewer (Justin), Natalie Cortopassi-Sisson (Brian). Also, Gary’s Step-Children Corrine Cathey (Jerry) and Sean Kennedy, Aaron Jacaway, and Jessie Brewer (Crystal).

A special thanks goes out to Dolly and Dee Dee Frye and the Staff at Frye’s Care Home in Eureka. Their kind and compassionate care of Gino’s health and well being needs to be commended. Gino was very happy with the care during his stay. The family would also like to Thank some very close friends that visited Gino often. Dave Franceschi, Bill Johnson, Linda Foster Schultz, and Delores Bucko. Thank you for being there for Dad.

Due to COVID restrictions a private family viewing will be held at Sander Funeral Home on E St. in Eureka on Friday, March 12th, at 10 a.m. with a private graveside service at noon in the Mausoleum at Ocean View Cemetery.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Gino Cortopassi’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here.