GLOUCESTER: Carmen J. Morendo, 85, died March 15, 2012 in the Golden Living Center.
Born in Gloucester on October 16, 1926, he was the son of the late Joseph and Gladys (Eaton) Morendo, who were the owners of the West End Taxi Company.
A U.S. Marine Corps veteran, he first served in combat during World War II in China against the Japanese. He remained in the Marine Corps and served in North Korea combating the Chinese in the Battle of the Chosin Reservoir. Members of the First Marine Division, they struggled to survive the coldest winter in North Korea in over 100 years. This group was rescued by General MacArthur and became known as “The Brotherhood of the Frozen Chosin.” He was honorably discharged in September of 1953 at the rank of Corporal.
Carmen had worked as a cab driver and also as a truck driver on the West Coast. He was a member of the Amvets Post #32 of Gloucester. He was also an active member of the Elder Service Plan of the North Shore’s PACE Program, where he had many friends.
He is survived by his longtime companion, Vicki Laiacano; and his cousin, Josephine, wife of Sam Piscatello.
In keeping with his wishes, there will be no services. Arrangements are under the direction of the Pike-Grondin Funeral Home, 61 Middle Street, Gloucester.