Paul Gaetono Orlando (born October 20, 1938, died September 14, 2021), was the son of Tonno and Mary (Sandretto) Orlando, both from Pittsburg, California.  He was born and raised, along with his brother, John and sisters Pearl and Gloria, at their home on East 2 nd Street in Pittsburg.  He lived in this home until 1967.

Younger Years

During the time that Camp Stoneman was still active in Pittsburg, Paul remembered the soldiers marching off, heading to The Philippines and other war zones.  He would help carry a soldier's bag for a quarter.  When soldiers were docked at the Port of Pittsburg, Paul would ask them if they were hungry, and they would give him money and he would return with hamburgers.

He played baseball in his younger years for Pittsburg Civic Athletic Club (PCAC), and other local leagues.  He was known for his knuckle ball as a pitcher.

Paul attended Pittsburg Senior High School, graduating in 1956.  Right out of high school, he served in the United Stated Air Force for four years.  After his honorable discharge from the Air Force, Paul began a 33 year career at the Pittsburg Steel Mill in 1963.   Paul was the second generation, out of four generation of Orlando steel workers.

Marriage and Family

In 1967, Paul fell in love with Joanie Aiello.  They had known each other for 7 years, because Paul's brother, John was married to Joanie's sister, Mary Lee. They went on to raise their four sons on Manville Avenue in Pittsburg, two houses down from their best friends, the Nicolosi's. They purchased the home for $15,500, with a $1,100 down payment in 1968.

In addition to their four sons, Paul and Joanie helped to raise countless nieces, nephews, grandchildren, great grandchildren and extended family. Their home was full of love, laughter, chaos, happiness and great food.

Their love affair lasted 54 years.

Retirement and Later Years

After his retirement in 1996, Paul enjoyed cooking, fishing, spending time with family, and most of all, trips to Reno with Joanie.  He also enjoyed golfing with his sons and friends. One of his favorite pastimes was watching westerns and old movies. He had a knack for remembering old movie star names and movies.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Tonno and Mary, his brother, John, and his son, Dale.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Joanie, his sisters Pearl Gill of Pittsburg and Gloria Kenwright of Florida, his sons, Paul (Audrey), Steve, Michael (Joselyn), 9 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews and extended family and friends.  Three of Paul's grandchildren proudly followed in his steps by serving in the military:  Nicholas Orlando, US Marine Corp; Michael Orlando, US Navy; Christina Gatewood, US Air Force.