George Funari

In the 1970s, George Funari operated a crew at 19th Hole in Bensonhurst. He engaged in illegal gambling, loansharking, extortion, burglary and occasionally murder contracts.

He also supported the brazen armed robbers who took over the Pierre Hotel in January 1972 and stole approximately $3 million worth of cash and jewels. In 1980, he was promoted to consigliere within the Lucchese family and recruited Vittorio Amuso and Anthony Casso to join his crew.

Early Life and Education

George Funari was born on October 7 1917 in Massachusetts to Frederick and Adorna Funari. As a passionate outdoorsman, his hobbies included fishing and hiking.

Funari’s tenure at Baxter International saw him contribute to the establishment of Pharmaseal and Paramax Systems divisions, as well as serve on their executive committee.

He currently serves as Chairman of NxStage Medical and Patient Care America, which offers infusion therapy services to those with complex disease problems. Additionally, he is a board member of the Memorial Care Foundation. As former president of Syncor International which was acquired by Cardinal Health in 2002, he has 28 years of experience working within healthcare. In addition to being an accomplished executive, he is also an accomplished author.

Professional Career

George Furnari was one of New York City’s most powerful Mafia bosses during the early 1980s. He ran his crew out of 19th Hole, a disreputable bar and social club in Bensonhurst. His organization engaged in illegal gambling, loansharking, extortion, burglary, narcotics dealing, as well as murder for hire.

He was an influential member of both Manhattan and Brooklyn Lucchese crime families, as well as having influence within other New York crime families and Mafia organizations around the US. In 1985, he was indicted by the New York Mafia Commission on charges including extortion, labor disputes in the construction industry, and the alleged killing of Carmine “Lilo” Galante – a Bonanno crime family boss.

Achievements and Honors

While a student at Rutgers University, George earned several medals and ribbons for his academic achievements; including the Abraham Nessier Quick Prize as a sophomore for high scholastic standing. Furthermore, he won a gold star for his performance in the Rutgers chess tournament.

He was also proud to receive the Army Service Medal for his service during World War II. In his free time, he enjoyed playing pranks on people as a child and in his early twenties; one memorable encounter being with James Buffay – another Rutgers alumnus who would go on to become US Senator from Massachusetts. Additionally, he belonged to Delta Upsilon Philospero & Targum fraternities; Chi Psi honorary membership; proud member of varsity ice hockey team; avid reader – these just to mention some!

Personal Life

George Funari was a happily married man. He loved spending time with his family and enjoyed fishing, boating and driving trucks.

He enjoyed playing guitar in a southern rock band and listening to music. Additionally, he was an excellent friend to many and an inspiring person to have around.

His passing was a tragic loss for the community and he will be greatly missed by his family and friends. Survived by his wife Bonnie; children Sherri Nusser (Ron), Chris Hammer, Ken Funari and Alecia Longendyke; grandchildren Nick Stevie Vince Jillian Adrianna Joey Kaden Khloe Nick Stevie Vince Vince Jillian Jillian Adrianna Joey Kaden Khloe Nick Stevie Vince Vince Jillian Jillian Adrianna Joey Kaden Khloe

On Friday, prosecutors played videos recorded by Funari that depicted Floyd becoming quiet and motionless. She testified she did not observe Thao providing any medical aid to Floyd during these videos.