Peter M Gioia of Rocky Hill, CT passed away peacefully on August 26th, at Hartford Hospital. He was 69 years old. Born in Boston, he grew up in Medford and was the cherished son of the late Michael and Edna (Stowe) Gioia. Peter graduated from Medford High School in 1973. He received his Bachelor’s degree from Hobart College and completed a Master’s degree in business at the University of Connecticut.
Peter loved Connecticut. For nearly 30 years, he worked at Connecticut Business and Industry Association (CBIA), the state’s largest business organization. As Chief Economist, Peter was known in business and legislative communities as an expert on government policy and the impact on local economy. Peter was an economic advisor to CT Governor M. Jodi Rell and budget analyst for the CT General Assembly. While attending an economic conference on 9/11 in NYC, Peter escaped the explosion in Tower One. He never forgot that day.
Peter was a lover of military strategy and cigars. When he wasn’t working, he spent his time traveling, creating military dioramas and hanging with his “buddies” at Ray’s cigar shop. Paris, France was his favorite city in the world. In addition, Peter was a dedicated supporter of the Franciscan Friars of the Atonement.
Peter loved spending time with his extended family. He is survived by his sister, Miki (Gioia) Berg and brother-in-law, Peter Berg. Peter was a godfather to Allison (Berg) Quirk of Sandy, Utah and loving uncle to Alex Berg of Cohasset, MA and Parker Berg of Marshfield, MA. Peter had five grandnieces and nephews along with many cousins, whom he loved. Burial will be private at Oak Grove Cemetery in Medford, MA.
To honor Peter, a donation in his name can be made to The Franciscan Friars of the Atonement, Graymoor at: https://www.atonementfriars.org/make-a-donation/