A Named Endowed Fund Creates Permanent Legacy for Two Lives

Through his Legacy Society bequest intention, Guy Castellano has created a gift that honors his late wife, Patti, and her care, to be realized after his own passing.

Patti and Guy were just in their teens when they met in 1963—during Guy's two-year service in the Navy during the Vietnam War. They drifted apart, but two weeks before he returned to the States, they reconnected and married in 1967.

Thus began an ever-deepening relationship that endured for five decades: 52 years of courage, inspiration, adventures, joy, community engagement and dedication to friends and family.

Both Guy and Patti worked at PepsiCo for many years. They encouraged each other when—mid-career—they both enrolled in evening classes at Iona University, graduating with bachelor’s degrees.

An avid crafter, Patti created her own crafting business after she retired. She loved Agatha Christie mysteries: Miss Marple and Hercule Poirot were her favorites. Throughout their marriage, Guy and Patti gave to each other and became philanthropically engaged with several organizations that mattered to them—including their shared alma mater, a children’s hospital—and Putnam Hospital.

When Patti developed a kidney disorder and needed specialized care, they were referred to Michael Capicotto, MD, a nephrologist at Putnam Hospital. They placed their trust in him, and all became fast friends.

“When we met, we hugged,” Guy recalls. “Dr. Capicotto and his staff gave me two more years to have Patti here with me. He was at her bedside for precious hours during her final illness. Words cannot explain the appreciation, professionalism, friendship and the best bedside manner with which he honored Patti.”

Patti passed away in 2019. In the last few weeks of her life, she shared with Guy her wishes on how to honor her remarkable life through legacy gifts to the Hospital and other organizations close to her heart.

Guy updated his will and affirmed that the Hospital will be named the beneficiary of part of his 401(k) plan. He will leave the remainder of that plan (a minimum of $100,000), which allows him to create the Patricia D. Castellano and Gaetano P. Castellano Endowed Fund for Nephrology Care.

When realized, his gift will generate annual income to support the department in perpetuity. Guy "blends" his giving by continuing to give annually to the Hospital and has made an additional five-year pledge toward a capital project. He wants to enjoy seeing his philanthropy at work during his lifetime.

“Giving back to Dr. Capicotto’s specialty allows me to thank him for the amazing gift of care he gave Patti—and to ensure that both Patti’s life and mine will be remembered for years to come,” Guy says.