[Text by Carina Cristiano] This morning [Oct. 14] my cousins called from Italy and spoke to my dad as I held the phone to his ear. He was in a coma state, but I know he heard. It as if they gave him permission.

My dad, Vincenzo "Nino" Cristiano has passed today in his home with his family this afternoon.

He was a phenomenal father, inspiration, plus my example of honor and integrity. He went by Nino, Enzo, Vince, Zio, Boss, Mr Cristiano, Dad, Pop and so many more wonderful names for this great man. All to express his positive influence on so many.

Words cannot express this mixed emotion of feelings. My heart hurts and yet has rejoice for understanding how blessed I was by my father. I want to thank my mom, brothers and niece and Nino's staff for helping us keep him at home and give him dignity in death.

His example of courage, fatherhood, entrepreneurship and faith live on in his memory. Every hug, kiss and love he gave me is cherished in my heart.

Thank you Vitas Hospice. You were our angels of Mercy. Thank you Dr Gene Bouch, Dr. Richard Bouch, Dr Sander, and Father Mike.

Thank you FB friends and family for your kind support. He passed with That's Amore playing in background..

We will be working with All Souls on funeral arrangements. Thank you on behalf of my family.

We invite readers to visit Ms. Cristiano's Facebook page (link here) for further.

(Oct. 12, 2014, 7:27 p.m.) -- Kindly visit Carina Cristiano's Facebook page (link below) for the latest information on her father, Vincenzo Cristiano, family patriarch and founder of Long Beach's oldest Italian restaurant, the iconic Nino's in Bixby Knolls.

Click here.