William J. Urbinati

William J. Urbinati, 95, of Bristol, passed away peacefully on January 20, 2021 at Bristol Hospital surrounded by loving family members. Bill was born in West Hartford, the son of Mafalda and Bruno Rossi.

Raised in Litchfield most of his younger years, Bill joined the Marines in 1943 and became a member of the 4 ^th Marine Division. He fought in the Battle of Iwo Jima and was one of the oldest surviving members of this battle. He received a Purple Heart with two stars, a Presidential Unit Citation with one star for the fierce battle he participated in. He was awarded “Hometown Hero” in Bristol, CT in December 2019 by the CT General Assembly. However, his family has the most meaning and gave him the most satisfaction and happiness throughout his years. Bill loved attending all his grandson's Little League games in Forestville, weekly Sunday dinners at his daughter Debbie’s house and always looked forward to holidays with family.

Bill leaves behind his children, Donna Urbinati, Debbie (John) DeVeau, Danny (Terri) Urbinati and their mother, Cecilia Whinnem. He is predeceased by his daughter Darlene O’Neil, her husband Danny and their infant son Danny Jr. He leaves behind a special niece, Cindy (Joe) DeCarolis of E. Greenwich, RI who always provided warm and welcoming days at their beach home; cherished grandsons Steven (Lauren Nappi) DeVeau, John Deveau, Jr. of Ohio and many nieces and nephews.

The Urbinati family wishes to express a heartfelt thank you to his caregiver Kris Burke and his nurse Jennifer. A very special thank you to Cecil and Fernando Theriault for the many years of selflessness and genuine friendship.  Lastly, words can’t express the gratitude for the outstanding care by the Bristol Hosp. ICU nurses Jenna and Fatima who provided the utmost compassion and comfort during a very stressful time.

A graveside service with military honors and a celebration of life reception will be held in April with Covid protocols. Memorial contributions may be made to Forestville Little League or Families of Military Veterans. Erickson-Hansen, New Britain is handling arrangements.