Attributed to Joseph V. Del Raso, Esq., National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) President.

On behalf of the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) Board of Directors, we are deeply saddened by the death of Michael C. Rainone, one of our former regional vice presidents, longtime NIAF supporter and prominent Philadelphia lawyer. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Rainone family. Mr. Rainone passed away on Wednesday, October 17, 2012, at age 94.

A longtime NIAF supporter, Michael established the Foundation’s presence in Pennsylvania as its regional vice president. He was known by NIAF’s leadership as a passionate advocate, champion of many causes and an outstanding community leader.

Not only was Michael a prominent Philadelphia lawyer but an important link with the Italian American legal community. He possessed a passion for Italian Americans and their contributions to law. He worked tirelessly to champion Italian heritage and culture. Due to his efforts, a bust of Cesare Beccaria, an Italian jurist, philosopher and politician, was created and placed in the Philadelphia Criminal Justice Center. As a community leader, he served as President of the National Italian American Bar Association; International President of the Orphans of Italy Inc.; President of the Columbus Day Committee of Pennsylvania; President of two lodges of the Order Sons of Italy in America; and board member of the Justinian Society of Italian American Lawyers.

His legacy will be long remembered with great affection and admiration. He will be deeply missed by our NIAF family.

The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) is a non-profit organization based in Washington, D.C., dedicated to preserving the heritage of Italian Americans. Visit www.niaf.org.