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Page 233: Joseph Paterno [1881-1839] In the stormy early morning hours near mountainous Castelmezzano, Italy, amidst stinging rains and howling winds, the pure radiance of true greatness burst forth upon this world in the noble person of Joseph Paterno. Born of indomitable pioneers – courageous Giovanni and devoted Carolina Trivigno Paterno, he would rise up from his humble beginnings to become the true patriarch of his branch of the Paterno family.
As a young boy he endured the perilous journey across high seas to New York City, the epicenter of the New World. His tremendous inner drive and ambition were nurtured and cultivated as he rose from immigrant newsboy to able assistant in his father’s fledgling construction company. At the tender age of eighteen, he eagerly took the helm of the company when his father took ill and returned to his beloved Italy. This was the time when his vision and natural leadership abilities really began to flourish. He implemented his dream of building high-rise skyscraper apartment houses and was a huge success due to his hard work. He familiarized himself with every detail of his many projects and time-phased deliveries of all materials so that his workers never had to sit idly by waiting for supplies. His motto was “If you want a thing done right, do it yourself.” His strong convictions and faith in self enabled him to survive the vicissitudes of the Great Depression of 1929 and come out fighting stronger than ever. Together with his brother, Dr. Charles Paterno, and his beloved brother-in-law, Anthony Campagna, he went on to build more than one hundred stately and serenely inspiring structures throughout Manhattan. Perhaps the most crowning accomplishment was the landmark Castle Village that soared high above prestigious Riverside Drive and with its two thousand two hundred scenic rooms provided safe refuge for six hundred fortunate families.
The hallmarks of his life were his impeccable integrity, honest, and magnanimity. Comments from those who knew him were: “heart of gold,” “full of life,” “loyalty,” “most engaging personality,” “natural warmth and kindness,” “a dynamo of energy,” and “extreme practicality and devotion to family.” He was an excellent provider and took great fatherly pride in his two family castles: “Villa Paterno” in Riverdale, New York, and his breathtaking beach estate “Windrift” in Deal, New Jersey.
The natural talents and tireless efforts of this dedicated self-made leader were beautifully complemented on a sunny Tuesday on August 24, 1909, when he married the love of his life, the beautiful and charming, loyal and supportive, lovingly radiant Jule Helen Vera Wittkower a daring insightful innovator in her own right who did much to encourage others on to self-realization (myself included). [Carla’s note: This biography was written by one of Joseph’s grandsons. Which particular grandson is undetermined at this time.] These two were true soul mates on life’s specious journey. Together they bore two wonderful sons: Joseph Paterno, Jr., and Jack Casella Paterno both of whom went on to make the world a better place in their own life sagas.
Along with his overpowering love of family and selfless philanthropy, he maintained a passionate devotion to his beloved native land of Italy. He was instrumental in founding the famous Casa Italiana at Columbia University, which is dedicated to the preservation and …
Page 234: …promulgation of the rich Italian heritage and culture. For his good work, he was formally made a Commander of the Crown of Italy by King Victor Emmanuel and officially knighted as a “Commandatore” in 1928.
Yes, Joseph Paterno was the personification of true greatness, a devoted husband, and loyal loving father. He dedicated all his efforts to the betterment of his family as well as his fellow man. Perhaps the most apt description was that made by a former Italian Premier who presented him with a personally inscribed commemorative photograph inscribed “A Giuseppe Paterno, della buona razza Italiana” – “To Joseph Paterno, of the best Italian stock.” His timeless message to each and every one of us must surely be a heartfelt entreaty to “Become Who You Are.” As his grandson, I am in awe of his magnificent accomplishments and the inspiring fruition of his tremendous natural talents. He epitomizes the eternal American Dream. One fine day it will be a true honor to stand at long last in his lofty presence. Joseph Paterno truly belong to the Ages as an example of real hope to us all. “Until the dawn, when the shadows flee away…”
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