UPDATED: Former Dearborn Fire Chief, Councilman and State Rep. Polidori Dies at 72

Gino Polidori, a man with a long history of leadership in Dearborn, including 22 years as fire chief, two terms on Dearborn City Council, and three terms as a state representative, died on Sunday.

Polidori's health had declined in the last six to eight months after battling prostate cancer for 12 years, the Dearborn Press and Guide reported. He was 72.

"I am deeply saddened by the loss of Gino Polidori," said state Rep. George Darany (D-Dearborn). "He was a true public servant for the City of Dearborn and a friend. He cared deeply about the people he represented and always put their interests first."

Polidori attended Fordson High School, received his bachelor's degree from Wayne State University, and served in the United States Army from 1964 to '66. 

He was Dearborn’s fire chief from 1974 to ’96, served on the City Council from 1997 to 2004 and served in the state House of Representatives as a Democrat from 2005 to ’10.

Polidori was also very active in several community organizations, including the Dearborn Allied War Veterans Council, Italian American Fraternal Club, Dearborn Pioneers Club, the Fordson Varsity Alumni Club, the American Legion Post 364, and the Dearborn Goodfellows, where he served as a former president.

Many in the community have shared their condolences on the Dearborn Allied War Veterans Council Facebook page, where Polidori's death was announced Sunday.

"Gino will be deeply missed! He was such an incredible friend and mentor," said Facebook user Gary Tanner. "He always put the care and welfare of others above himself and our community, state and nation owe him a debt of gratitude that can never be repaid! God bless you and your family! I will remember your love, kindness, generosity and friendship always! Godspeed brother!"

Polidori is survived by his wife, Betty; his children, Gino, Jr., Laura and Rita; five grandchildren; his mother, Natalina; and his brothers, Anthony and Raymond.

His funeral will be at 11 a.m. on Friday, at the St. Barbara Catholic Church, 13534 Colson, Dearborn. Visitation will be held from 2 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday and from 1 to 8 p.m. on Thursday at the John N. Santeiu & Son Funeral Home, 1139 N. Inkster Rd., Garden City. There will be Rosaries at 7 p.m. both days.

Editor's Note: This story was updated to include state Rep. George Darany's statement and Gino Polidori's funeral information.