- December 20, 2024
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Arturo “Art” Giliberti, beloved father, grandfather, and community member, passed away on August 12, 2024, at the age of 94. Born on June 22, 1930 in Brooklyn, New York, Art led a life defined by service, devotion, and integrity.
At 18, Art enlisted in the U.S. Army and proudly served with the 101st Airborne Division in Germany during the Korean War. Upon returning, Art found his calling In civil service work. He eventually answered the call as a New York City Firefighter, a role he embraced the day before marrying the love of his life, Marie Giliberti. They met on a blind date, and their bond was inseparable until Marie’s passing earlier this year on April 18, 2024. Together, they raised 3 daughters, their 4th daughter was born with down syndrome and tragically passed away at a very young age.
Due to a work related injury, Art retired from the fire department after 13 yrs of service. He and his family relocated to South Florida, where Art pursued further education and earned a specialist degree in education. He spent the next chapter of his life as a teacher and coach, shaping young minds and athletes until his retirement in 1992.
Following the devastation of Hurricane Andrew, which destroyed their home, Art and Marie made a permanent move to Flagler Beach, Florida. There, Art became an active member of Santa Maria Del Mar Catholic Church and a proud Fourth Degree Knight in the Knights of Columbus, dedicating his time to faith and community service.
Art also found joy in the Senior Games, where he won numerous gold medals in track and field and swimming. His passion for competition reflected his lifelong commitment to perseverance, health, and self discipline.
Art was known for his great moral character, kindness , and devotion to family. He is survived by his three daughters, Janine Giliberti, Diane Sweeney, and Lori Giliberti, along with his cherished grandchildren Kira Chichersky, Tatiana Paris, Brendan Sweeney, Meghan Sweeney and Shaina Sweeney.
Art’s life was a testament to courage, love, and dedication, and his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
A memorial service will be held at Santa Maria Del Mar Catholic Church on Oct 5th, 11:30 rosary, 11:45 firefighter tribute and a Mass at noon. To be followed by a reception at the church hall. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to First Coast Honor Flights www.firstcoasthonorflight/donation [please note in comments in memory of Art Giliberti] In honor of Art’s lifelong commitment to service and community.
