Gus Peter Aiello

Gus Peter Aiello Sr., a beloved member of the Monterey Peninsula, passed away peacefully at home on March 19th, 2025, surrounded by his loving family at the age of 93. Born in Monterey, California, on November 30, 1931, to Erasimo and Mary (Bruno) Aiello, Gus was the seventh of eight children, growing up in the close-knit Spaghetti Hill neighborhood on Larkin Street.

Gus attended Monterey schools from kindergarten through high school, graduating from Monterey High School in 1950. Just two weeks after graduation, he began his lifelong career in the tile trade at C.L. Frost Roofing and Tile Company, where he quickly earned the rank of journeyman. Gus’s skill and dedication to his craft led him to become the founder of Aiello Tile, where he worked alongside his eldest son, Ray for many years.

Gus took great pride in his work, particularly in the restoration of historic and sacred sites such as San Carlos Cathedral and Parish Hall, the Church of the Annunciation, and the mural work created for a local Bishop. His craftsmanship left a lasting mark on Monterey and its history.

In 1955, Gus married the love of his life, Anna Marie Apostrofe. He is preceded by his wife of nearly 45 years and is survived by his five children Ray (Lori), Tom (Claire), MaryAnne (Raul), Lisa (Willie), Gus Jr., 11 grandchildren, and four great grandchildren who were the light of his life.

Gus’s devotion to his family was matched only by his love for his community. He was a devoted baseball coach for many years to his sons and their teammates across the Monterey Peninsula. He loved sports and played socko, basketball, and was an avid golfer. He volunteered with the Pebble Beach Pro-Am golf tournament and also organized many of his own with his friends yearly.

Gus traveled extensively with Anna Marie and their many friends on countless excursions around the globe, including many cruises, trips to Italy, Mexico, the Caribbean Islands, and beyond.

Gus was an active member of several social and charitable organizations, including the Italian Catholic Federation, Compari Club, Elks Club, Amicci Group, and Knights of Columbus. Known for his warmth and generosity, he could often be found cooking for Festa Italia, ICF Lenten Dinners, and events at the Elks Club and Moose Lodge.

In 2016, Gus was honored with the prestigious Italian Heritage Society Award, recognizing his deep contributions to the culture and spirit of Monterey. His dedication to preserving Italian heritage and his unwavering commitment to helping others will be remembered by all who knew him.

Gus lived a life of faith, hard work, and love — a life well lived and deeply cherished. A mass will be held at San Carlos Cathedral on Monday, April 7th, at 9:30 a.m. with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.