Philip James Rinella, 77, of Mesa, Arizona, passed away peacefully on December 10, 2021 surrounded by family. Phil, known lovingly as “Big Phil,” was born May 3, 1944 in Stamford, Connecticut to Natalie Mary (Czupkowski) Rinella and Austin James Rinella. He met his loving wife, Sue, while working in law enforcement on an off duty detail. They married on July 3, 1973 and were married for 48 years.
Phil is a retired police officer, former factory supervisor, and enjoyed his retirement years pretending to look busy at his favorite place to be–Hot Corner Sports Cards where he worked alongside his son, Phil.
Phil was preceded in death by his parents and is survived by his wife and four children: Michele (Richard) Cousens, Robert Rinella, Natalie Rinella, and Phil A (Karen) Rinella. Also surviving are seven grandchildren: Robert Jr., Austin, Evelina, Kayleigh, Devon, Drew, and Jackson.
Phil is also survived by one sister: Eleanor Farfaglia, as well as many beloved cousins, nieces, and nephews.
The family would like to thank the special care givers who expressed kindness to Phil: First and foremost Dr. Mark Goldberg for his 20 plus years serving as Phil’s primary physican and friend. Also they would like to express gratitude to the nurses and doctors of Banner Baywood Hospital where he was lovingly referred to as “The Jolly Giant.” Finally they would like to thank the staff at The Dobson House Hospice of the Valley for their outstanding care in his final days.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday, December 21, 2021 between the hours of 6:00 and 8:00 pm at Mountain View Funeral Home,7900 E Main Street in Mesa, Arizona. Flowers may be sent directly to Mountain View Funeral Home.
Rest in peace Big Phil. My condolences to the entire family during this difficult time.
He will be missed,
Big Mac
I;m sorry I can’t attend, I have been diagnosis with the virus. I will be thinking of big Phil. RIP buddy.
So sorry for your loss. I thought the world of “Big Phil’. Rest easy and enjoy the “Field of Dreams” forever! My deepest sympathies to your family.
I first met Big Phil when I walked in at Hot Corner. He was very helpful and I learned quick that I had to carefully decide when to take him seriously. He was a great treat to be around especially when he barked out words at the weekly Saturday auction at Hot Corner. I will never forget the one time I was in the shop (Hot Corner) and he told me to watch the place for a couple minutes while he went next door. He had a way of knowing (and sometimes knowing who he can trust) people very quickly. He always greeted me with a smile and asked how I and family was. He showed genuine concern. That is a good word to describe Biggie…GENUINE! BIggie will forever be missed!
Rest in the arms of Christ “Big Phil”, you were a great storyteller who always made me smile when I would stop by the shop to say hi. My deepest condolences to your family.
Lee Pell and I will Miss Big Phil on our next visit to the card shop, but his laugh and STORIES will never leave us!!! Love and prayers to the Family!!!
RIP, My Friend we had many great times when were at our Not so famous Breakfasts and Lunches.
Sad to hear of Phil’s passing, may he rest in peace. Sue, and Michele, Robert, Natalie, and Phil, I knew Phil from our teenage years and working at SPD until he retired. Great cop and good friend, fun to be around. Lost touch many years ago but always remember his good humor and often off the wall jokes! Praying for Phil and for you as you mourn your loss. Steve DeVito, SPD (retired)
My Uncle Phil was a very significant person in my life, especially growing up. In fact, he is my godfather. He was just a young teenager when I was born. We spent a lot of time together when I went to visit and stay with my grand parents. He derived great pleasure from terrorizing my older brother, along with many other family members and friends. Uncle Phil was a lot of fun and always made us laugh. Life was quite adventurous with Phil. No one could tell a story like he could! He was there for me when I needed him most. He tried to act tough but it was all a show. He sure had a big heart. He was a great big teddy bear! Once you met him, you could never forget him. I will always love my Uncle Phil and I sure will miss him. Rest in peace in the arms of Jesus! My sincere condolences to my Aunt Sue and my cousins.
I will always cherish the numerous conversations I had with “Big Phil” over the years and how he made me laugh. Also, I’ll remember him in referring to me as “The Shadow” as most of us inevitably were given a nickname. In closing, Rest In Peace “Big Phil” and my deepest sympathy to Sue and the entire Rinella family.
RIP Biggie. I’ll never forgot our chats, the hard time you gave out(all love) and while looking at the Superstitions out front of the shop.