Staten Island Republican power broker Guy Molinari, whose political career spanned nearly three decades, has died. He was 89.
“The Staten Island Republican family is saddened by the news of the passing of former Congressman, Borough President, and Assemblyman Guy Molinari,” Brendan Lantry, chairman of the Staten Island Republican Party, said in a statement Wednesday.
“Guy was, simply stated, a larger than life figure here on the Island and throughout New York. He was a mentor to dozens of young, eager Republicans who have risen up the ranks over the years,” Lantry said.
“His numerous accomplishments for the people of Staten Island will live on for generations. Our prayers are with Susan and the rest of the Molinari family at this difficult time.”
Molinari had been ill and housebound for several years, the Staten Island Advance reported, noting that he passed away at NYU Medical Center.
Molinari was a political force on the island for decades.
Between 1975 and 2001, he served five terms in the House of Representatives, three in the state Assembly and three as Staten Island borough president.
Molinari was elected to Congress in 1980, unseating nine-term Democrat John Murphy.
When Molinari became borough president, his only child, Susan, won his congressional seat and represented Staten Island from 1990 to 1997.
One of the Staten Island ferries also carries the name Guy V. Molinari in honor of the congressman, a former Marine who served from 1951 to 1953 during the Korean War.
Staten Island Congressman Dan Donovan said in a statement: “I offer my deepest condolences to Susan and the entire Molinari family on the loss of their beloved patriarch, Guy.”
“As a Marine and dedicated elected official, Guy served our nation and Staten Island with distinction. He left an indelible mark on Staten Island that inspired countless others to a calling of public service. His legacy will long outlast his remarkable life,” Donovan said.
Ex-Rep. Michael Grimm tweeted his condolences, saying: “Keep the Molinari family in your prayers today. The world lost its toughest Marine this morning. Rest in peace, Guy. You will always be in our hearts.”
Gaetano Victor “Guy” Molinari was born in Manhattan on Nov. 23, 1928.
In 1956, Molinari married Marguerite Wing, who died at the age of 70 in 2008.


