COBBLE HILL — VINCENZO “VINNIE” PAMPILLONIA, founder of the iconic Vinnie’s Italian Art Ironworks in Cobble Hill, passed away on Oct. 7. He was 89.
Born in Villabate, Sicily, Pampillonia set sail for New York City in 1962. After starting as a worker in an iron shop, he founded his own business on Bergen Street in 1964, and with hard work, became known as a master craftsman.
According to his obituary, published by F.G. Guido Funeral home, “He filled his days with music, opera, travel, novellas, western films, and laughter, but nothing brought him more joy than his work — a lifelong expression of pride and purpose. Few have labored harder or lived with greater passion.”
A statue of St. Joseph, the patron saint of craftsmen, has been perched on the roof of his shop since 1974, a gift from St. Paul’s Church, according to Patch.
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