Dominic J Carini

Dominic J. “Sonny” Carini, 86, died Monday, May 20, 2024 at Rennes Health & Rehab Center in Appleton, WI due to complications with Parkinson’s Disease and dementia. Dominic was born June 12, 1937 in Milwaukee, WI, son of the late Albert and Margaret (LaLicata) Carini.

Dominic grew up in the 3rd Ward of Milwaukee in an Italian Community with his siblings, Esther, Rosario, Josephine and John. He was the baby of the family and enjoyed all of their attention. He graduated from Riverside High School in 1955. Dominic was proud that he was the first of his family to attend college and graduate from Marquette University in 1962.

Dominic married the love of his life, Barbara B. (Sawyer) Carini, on June 19, 1965 at St. John’s Cathedral in Milwaukee. The couple had nine addresses throughout their almost 59-year marriage which included, Milwaukee, Cedarburg, Pewaukee, Spring Hill, FL and Appleton.

Dominic received an honorable discharge from the U.S. Army in 1967 after serving in the Reserves for six years. State Farm Insurance employed Dominic as a Claims Specialist for over 31 years from November 6, 1967 to August 1, 1999. He was a successful negotiator and earned respect during his career. After beating cancer, he was blessed to have almost 25 years of retirement.

One of his most proud moments was when Barbara gave birth to their daughter, Michelle on March 28, 1969. He always said they went for quality not quantity. He became a Father-in-Law on May 30, 1992 when Michelle married Paul Loebbaka. He later became Grandpa to Brenden born 12/15/98, Spencer born 10/21/01 and Tyler born 5/25/03 who were his pride and joy.

Sports were a big part of Dominic’s life, as he was a Packers, Bucks and Brewers fan. He himself loved to golf and bowl. He mastered bowling when he earned two 300 games – what a thrilling accomplishment! Playing bocce ball at family picnics was also a highlight. Dominic also had a love of movies and music. As a child, he learned to play the accordion. He sang in choir during school and learned to dance after meeting Barbara. His love of history and heritage took them to Europe twice with Italy and Sicily being their favorite stops.

Dominic is survived by his wife, Barbara; daughter, Michelle (Paul) Loebbaka; grandsons, Brenden, Spencer & Tyler; brother, John Carini; brother-in-law, Paul Tetzlaff and many other relatives and friends.

Dominic is proceeded in death by his parents; sisters, Esther Gardner and Josephine Tetzlaff; brother, Rosario Carini; brother-in-law Raymond Gardner; sister-in-law, Irene Carini; nephews, Christopher Carini & Michael Carini.

The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to the staff of Compassus Hospice for the compassionate care given to Dominic. Also thank you to Verkuilen-Van Deurzen Funeral Home, Saint Bernadette Church, Riverside Cemetery and Angel’s Restaurant.

The funeral liturgy for Dominic will be held on Saturday June 8, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Bernadette Catholic Church, 2331 E. Lourdes Drive, Appleton, WI.  A time of visitation will be held on Saturday from 9:30 a.m. till the time of the service at the church.  Interment with military honors will follow at Riverside Cemetery.  For online condolences and a full obituary please visit www.verkuilenfh.com

In lieu of flowers, memorials made to foxvalleymemoryproject.org/donate, wiparkison.org/donate and michaeljfox.org/donate in Dominic’s name are appreciated.