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Louis D. DePanfilis "Gino" Louis D. "Gino" DePanfilis, beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend too many, passed away peacefully on January 14, 2009 in San Antonio, at the age of 92. His giant-sized love of life carried him in many directions and his love for people gave joy to everyone who crossed his path. Gino was born in Stamford, Connecticut on October 20, 1916, the middle child of five, to Italian immigrants Frank and Anna Silvestri. After his father died and mother became ill, Gino went to work at an early age to help support his siblings. After high school graduation, he joined the newly formed Civilian Conservation Corps, then joined the Army and worked his way to the rank of captain. He was a member of the 82nd Airborne Division and served in WWII. One of his adventures in the war included a period being missing behind enemy lines. Short on details, he always told his family it was just a game to him. His service won him the Bronze Star for courage and valor. After serving, he continued for many years in the Army Reserves. Gino had a lifelong love of learning and a stubborn determination to master new things. Since he "wasn't good at math" he decided to study civil engineering. He earned his bachelor's degree from Texas Western University now UTEP. It was during this time in west Texas that he married Elizabeth Nell Ogden, who was a perfect match in playfulness and zeal for life. They recently celebrated 54 years of marriage. Even in the last few weeks of his life he could be caught sitting out on the back porch holding hands with the love of his life. As a professional civil engineer, he worked for many years with H.B. Zachary on interesting projects like the Kyle Field extension and the Hilton Palacio del Rio. Gino then worked for Binkley & Holmes Engineering in Houston and retired. Gino spent spare time enjoying gardening, scouting, horses, physical fitness, golfing and professional organizations. He spoke several foreign languages. He and Nell were members of University United Methodist Church. The biggest gift you could give him was time with his family. He is survived by wife Nell, his son Nick; his daughter and son-in-law Cynthia and William Himstedt; and three grandchildren, Dylan, Jackson and Julia DePanfilis; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends. He taught us all to be adventurous, inquisitive and to enjoy life to the fullest. He was always there for everyone and we will miss him dearly. He is in God's hands now. Visitation will be held on Sunday-January 18, 2009 from 5:00PM until 8:00PM at Mission Park Funeral Chapels North. Graveside Services & Interment for Louis DePanfilis will be on Monday, January 19, 2009 at 1:45PM at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.

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Louis D. DePanfilis

October 20, 1916 - January 14, 2009