Vincent Ciriello died on May 17 in his home in Southampton. He was 92.
He was born in Brooklyn to Angelo and Josephine on September 3, 1931. He went to Brooklyn Automotive High School and graduated in 1948.
After serving in the U.S. Air Force and attending Columbia University for two years on the G.I. Bill, he piloted helicopters for New York Airways, chauffeuring dignitaries — including the governor of the State of New York and the Beatles during the World’s Fair in 1964, which was written about by Jimmy Breslin of the New York Post.
He received the Air Medal in 1956 for service in the Arctic/
He flew for United Airlines for 18 years.
In 2000, he built his own home in Southampton. He loved to restore antique cars and was skilled in many trades.
He is survived by his wife, Kathy; and his sons, Peter and Kilaya. He was predeceased by his siblings, Michelina, Frank, Richard and Anthony.
Visitation will be held at Brockett Funeral Home in Southampton, on Thursday, May 23, from 4-8 p.m. Burial will take place at Sacred Hearts Cemetery in Southampton, on Friday, May 24, at 11 a.m.