Eugene Nicholas Opinante passed away on March 21, 2016 after a long illness in Tucson, Arizona at the age of 83.

Eugene is survived by his loving wife of 26 years Joan Christine Opinante of Green Valley, Arizona; Eugene's Children, Judith of Coram, New York, Peter and Stefanie of Chicago, Illinois, and Daniel and Dawn of  St. James, New York; Grandchildren , Danielle, Peter, Brittany, and Kelsey.

Eugene was born on December 16, 1932 in Brooklyn, New York to Parents, Peter and Margaret Opinante.   Eugene as a child growing up in Brooklyn, New York played stick ball and baseball with friends that he kept all of his life. After graduating college from Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken, NJ in 1954 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, he served his country as a Navy officer on the USS La Moure County (LST-883).  It was during this period in his life where he learned the game of Contract Bridge which became his lifelong passion, obtaining the status of Life Master Bridge player in 1990.  He had a successful 36 year career in the defense industry with Grumman Aerospace of Bethpage, New York as an engineer.

As very active retiree, in Green Valley, Arizona, Eugene and Joan travelled extensively throughout Europe and the United States stopping at every National Park and monument on the way to their bridge tournaments. His many other interests included golf, photography, reading, Lincoln Highway History, and visiting major league ballparks.

Eugene "Speedy Nick" Opinante enjoyed happiness and love throughout his life. He leaves us with the love of his family and friends, and will be truly missed. He will forever be a part of all of us.

On April 1, 2016, Eugene was given a memorial and inurnment at Green Valley Cemetery in Sahuarita, AZ.