Nicola Tallone

Nicola “Lino” Tallone, age 91, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on February 13, 2025. Lino was born on July 10, 1933, in Borgomaro, Italy to the late Francisco Tallone and Teresa Amoretti Tallone.
Lino’s musical journey started with private music classes at the age of 11. Although music was his passion, his father encouraged him to pursue a practical trade, enrolling him in tailoring classes. While Lino became a skilled tailor, he never gave up on his dream of becoming a musician.
At 17, he embarked on his true musical career, traveling across Europe with a band. For four years, Lino performed aboard Italian cruise ships, captivating audiences with his talent on the accordion, keyboard, and xylophone. In 1972, he came to America to form his own band and continue his musical journey.
Lino was introduced to Dick Grass at GMS Management, and his band, I Liguri, became the Head Act at Villaggio, where he entertained guests for 26 summers. Beyond Villaggio, Lino brought joy to countless people by performing at weddings, events, Italian fairs and festivals, and local lounges.
In 1974, while performing at JR’s Restaurant and Lounge, Lino met Marie, and a beautiful journey began. Together, they created a loving, blended family that thrived for 51 wonderful years. Lino’s family often joined him at his performances – Marie, his son, Roberto and daughter, Julie were always by his side. When he wasn’t working, they enjoyed traveling to Italy to visit family and relive fond memories.
In his later years, Lino embraced life to the fullest, cherishing every moment with his family. His pride and joy were his grandchildren, and his love for them was boundless. Lino is survived by his wife Marie Cognetta Tallone; children: Julie Wilson (Sylvester), Roberto Tallone (Alberta); grandchildren: Samantha Wilson, Sydnee Wilson, Enrico Tallone, and Nicolo Tallone; cousins, Jose Berio Caccio, Annamaria Caccio.
In addition to Lino’s parents, he was predeceased by his treasured Aunts Luigia (Giovanni) and Ferminia (Loui), and Uncle Rinaldo (Anita).
A funeral procession will leave the Nicholas F. Cognetta Funeral Home & Crematory, 104 Myrtle Avenue, Stamford, CT on Wednesday, February 19, 2025 at 10:00 AM and proceed to St. Bridget of Ireland RC Church, 287 Strawberry Hill Avenue, Stamford, CT for a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 10:30 AM. Interment will be private. Family and friends may call at the funeral home on Tuesday, February 18, 2025 from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Lino’s memory to CT – Stamford EMS.
The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Dr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Green, his wonderful staff, Dr. Allison Ostroff, Dr. Brenda Chan and the DiVita team as well as Jocelyne and Racine who lovingly cared for Lino. We are lucky to have so many family, friends, and neighbors who loved and watched over Lino throughout the years.