Mario Edward Autera's Obituary
Mario Edward Autera, 93, of Old Greenwich, Connecticut passed away on July 6, 2024 surrounded by family of natural causes in San Diego, California. Born on October 17, 1930, in Bronx, New York, Mario was devoted to his Catholic faith, and was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend.
Mario is preceded by his parents Richard and Ida, and his two brothers, Anthony and Joseph. He is survived by his loving wife Elizabeth, his brother-in-law Joseph Scarfi, their daughter Maria and grandchildren Mia and Richard.
Mario attended St. Anne's Academy on 77th street in New York City before graduating Cum Laude from New York University in 1950 with a Bachelors in Science, and a Masters in Business Administration. He went on to teach high school biology for 49 years at Mamaroneck and New Rochelle High Schools. As a teacher, Mario always tried to help his students grow academically and personally. Years later, students would recognize "Mr. Autera" around town and thank him for his memorable classes and guidance. Mario served in multiple leadership roles of the Mamaroneck Union Free School District, including two years as president of the teacher's union to fight for increased wages and benefits.
In 1958, Mario and Elizabeth purchased a property in the backcountry of Greenwich, Connecticut to start a preschool. After the permits for the preschool were denied, they built their first home. He built five homes in Greenwich over the course of 40 years and obtained a real estate brokers license. Mario spent his teaching sabbatical in Coral Gables, Florida to study architecture at the University of Miami, which helped him in the design of his custom homes.
Third only to his love for faith and family was Mario's love for the sea. Growing up, he would ride his bicycle to fish and sail at City Island with his friends, Tommy and Howie. Mario's deep love for the sea and fishing led him to join the board of Friends of Greenwich Point, also known as Tod's Point, to provide a place for residents to enjoy the Long Island Sound and wildlife year-round. Just years before his passing, he would drive his Red Mercedes-Benz to fish with "the guys at the Point." After casting out, he would place a crushed Coors Light can above the open reel, and say his rosary while waiting for his next big catch.
A celebration of Mario's life will be held at Mary Star of the Sea in La Jolla, California on Monday, July 23rd at 10:30 am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal, an organization close to Mario's heart.
He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Donations in Mario's name can be made to Franciscan Friars of the Renewal via their website: https://www.franciscanfriars.com/
Visitation
11 am to 3pm, July 22, 2024
Salli Lynn Chapel, Greenwood Cemetery
4300 Imperial Ave
San Diego, CA 92113
Funeral Mass
10:30 am, Tuesday July 23, 2024
Mary Star of the Sea
7669 Girard Ave. La Jolla, CA
La Jolla, CA 92037
Burial
12pm, Tuesday July 23, 2024
4470 Hilltop Drive
San Diego, CA 92102
Reception
5pm, Tuesday July 23, 2024
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