Contact: Colleen Roche (212) 788-2958
"As a 40-year veteran of the New York City Police Department, John Ranieri was a role model for his fellow police officers and served as a valuable asset and inspiration for his community," Mayor Giuliani said. "This street corner is named after John, in gratitude for all he did to improve the quality of life for all New Yorkers."
John Ranieri was born on January 6, 1931 into a family that had emigrated from Italy in the early 1900's. After graduating from John Adams High School in Queens and marrying Betty Vantriera in 1952, John became a New York City police officer. Throughout his years on the force, he was recognized and commended for his hard work. He was promoted to Sergeant in 1983, and then to the rank of Sergeant-Detective Squad Commander in 1992. During his career, John Ranieri attended John Jay College where he earned an Associates Degree in Police Science, a Bachelors Degree in Criminal Justice and a Masters Degree in Public Administration.
Because of his desire to promote a positive public image of Italian-Americans, Officer Ranieri was an active member of the NYPD's Columbia Association and served as an officer of the board and later as President. He became President of the National Council of Columbia Associations in Civil Service and held this position until his death. His love of Italian heritage earned him the nickname "Mr. Columbia" from his fellow officers.
He also served as a member of Community Board 11 in Bayside and was an active parishioner of Our Lady of the Most Blessed Sacrament Church where he served as a lector. He also served as an Editor for the Columbia News, and was active in the Cub and Boy Scouts. On June 27, 1995, he died of a heart attack at 64 years of age and is survived by his wife Betty, his sons, Anthony, John and Douglas, his daughter Theresa, and five grandchildren.
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