For Grandpa Vin and Grandma Sue’s Grandkids: Life Before Long Island

You are the fifth generation of our family to pursue the American Dream. But where did the American Dream truly begin for our small branch of La Famiglia Panettieri?

Our branch of the Panettieri family immigrated from Stromboli, Italy to New York in 1915 and 1920.

The answer extends back to 1915 and Stromboli — a little island north of Sicily, Italy. The island had no electricity. No running water. Little opportunity for family prosperity… … and an active volcano.

Amid that backdrop, six of your Panettieri relatives dreamt of leaving Stromboli and building a better life in America. The names to know include:

• Vincenzo Panettieri (1871-1963): Your great, great grandfather

• Rosa (“Rose”) Panettieri (1872-1953): Your great, great grandmother

And their four children:

• Giuseppe (Joseph) Panettieri (1898-1954): Your great grandfather — and Grandpa Vin’s dad

• Giovanna (Jennie) Panettieri (1905-1927): Your great grandaunt

• Stefano (Stephen) Panettieri (1906-1991): Your great granduncle

• Salvatore (Sal) Panettieri (1911-1990): Your great granduncle, and father to “Cousin Vinnie” of Oakdale

Read their immigrant story. Remember and respect their shared sacrifices. And honor them by pursuing your own version of the American Dream each and every day.

Note: Written for the grandchildren of Vincent John Panettieri and Susan Hicks.