Albert Grillo

Albert L. Grillo, 91, of Greensburg, died Monday March 21, 2022. Albert was born June 17, 1930, in New York City. He attended St. Vincent Prep School and graduated from Greensburg Salem. Albert was raised in his family's jewelry business, established in 1920 by his father, Louis Albert, and mother, Brenda (DeNardo) Grillo. Albert's first teacher and mentor was his father, Louis. Along with his parents' retail store, they also owned LouBrenAl, a jewelry distribution business. Albert worked beside his father in the business until he was drafted into the Marine Corps. After returning from Camp Lejeune, Albert took full ownership of Grillo's Jewelers. Along with his wife, Emelia (Conatti), who predeceased him, Albert built the business into a chain of stores throughout downtown Greensburg, Westmoreland Mall and Regency Mall in Indiana, Pa. He also operated a costume boutique called Cam - Mil by Grillo. Albert's customers included well-known celebrities such as Robert Knievel (Evil Knievel), members of the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Pittsburgh Pirates organizations. However, it was the customers from the Greensburg area that he most appreciated for their many years of support. Because of that appreciation, Albert gave generously to the community he loved so much. His generosity was very private, he never sought recognition for the support he was able to provide. He supported many local organizations that are able to provide help to all individuals living in the area. While managing the business, Albert continued to educate himself. He took classes in jewelry manufacturing, design and hand-engraving at the Thacker Institute and Carnegie Tech (Carnegie Mellon). He was the ever¬ dedicated learner. He expanded his knowledge by taking courses in business law at Saint Vincent College, and a course in real estate. Albert was a member of the Gemological Institute of America - Grading and Appraising Diamonds and Gemstones. He served on the Boards of Regency and Westmoreland Malls. He participated with the Greensburg Junior Chamber of Commerce, Greensburg Rotary Club, Greensburg Elks, Boy Scouts of America, the Greensburg YMCA, United Way and several religious organizations. After retiring, Albert held a position with the Trump Castle Casino in Atlantic City. Once fully retired, he spent his time golfing and playing cards at Ligonier Country Club, where he was a member. Several times he participated in the World Poker Tournament. Albert is survived by his daughter, Camala "Camie", and his granddaughter Blanca Christina, who shares his drive and ambition. He and Blanca share the same several interests but most importantly their roles of overachieving. Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate the life of Albert from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday in the CLEMENT L. PANTALONE FUNERAL HOME INC., 409 W. Pittsburgh St., Greensburg, PA 15601, 724-837-0020. Parting prayers will be held at 9 a.m. Monday in the funeral home, followed by a funeral Mass to be celebrated at 9:30 a.m. in the Blessed Sacrament Cathedral. Interment will follow in Greensburg Catholic Cemetery.  Camie and Blanca would like to thank Dr. Robert Tymoczko and his staff for their patience and care over the last few decades; to Maureen, Susan and Debbie for aid while at home; and to Jeff Long and the staff at St. Anne Nursing Home for his comfort for his last 28 days. Memorial donations may be made to a Religious charity of choice, the Greensburg Fire Dept. or the Greensburg Police. Albert's family has entrusted his care to the Pantalone Funeral Home Inc., Greensburg. For online condolences/directions, visit us at pantalone.com. Natale N. Pantalone, supervisor.