May 3, 1944 – December 10, 2021
Philip James Rinella, 77, of Mesa, Arizona, passed away peacefully on December 10, 2021 surrounded by family. Phil, known lovingly as “Big Phil,” was born May 3, 1944 in Stamford, Connecticut to Natalie Mary (Czupkowski) Rinella and Austin James Rinella. He met his loving wife, Sue, while working in law enforcement on an off duty detail. They married on July 3, 1973 and were married for 48 years.
Phil is a retired police officer, former factory supervisor, and enjoyed his retirement years pretending to look busy at his favorite place to be–Hot Corner Sports Cards where he worked alongside his son, Phil.
Phil was preceded in death by his parents and is survived by his wife and four children: Michele (Richard) Cousens, Robert Rinella, Natalie Rinella, and Phil A (Karen) Rinella. Also surviving are seven grandchildren: Robert Jr., Austin, Evelina, Kayleigh, Devon, Drew, and Jackson.
Phil is also survived by one sister: Eleanor Farfaglia, as well as many beloved cousins, nieces, and nephews.
The family would like to thank the special care givers who expressed kindness to Phil: First and foremost Dr. Mark Goldberg for his 20 plus years serving as Phil’s primary physican and friend. Also they would like to express gratitude to the nurses and doctors of Banner Baywood Hospital where he was lovingly referred to as “The Jolly Giant.” Finally they would like to thank the staff at The Dobson House Hospice of the Valley for their outstanding care in his final days.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday, December 21, 2021 between the hours of 6:00 and 8:00 pm at Mountain View Funeral Home,7900 E Main Street in Mesa, Arizona. Flowers may be sent directly to Mountain View Funeral Home.
