In Memory of Paul Mastroianni

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There lives within our community a cadre of individuals who serve as sooth-sayers, providing almost shamman-like guidamce to the daring (and sometimes intrepid) indivduals who choose the journey of "building" their car dreams. Out here on the West Coast, Paul Mastroianni was that person, and he was as close to our version of Superman as you'll ever find.

Paul was passionate about his hobby of building FFR's, and served as a fountain of mechanical knowledge for others, often setting aside his own projects to participate in a build or to machine parts for individuals. He was selfless in his support to others who were building, and while his technical skills were indeed masterful, it was his uncanny ability to perceive the needs of others, and then spring into action that set him apart from others.

The journey of building your own car sometimes leads the hobbyist builder to crossroads that might stretch their own technical skills, or present roadblocks in their build process. In Southern California, or out there on the Forum, virtually before a call for assistance/help would go out, Paul "Cannonball Cobra" Mastroianni was there with kind, knowledgeable words of support and skillful helping hands to support the individual and move the build forward.

Paul was a warm, family man, who held a deep, abiding love for his children and grandchilren that seemed completely boundless. He personally touched more roadster builds than any single person west of the Mississippi, and his kindness and generosity will forever live on in the cars he helped to build, and the countless lives he touched while he was here with us.

Paul was a giant among our community, and the Robert Fedderson Legacy Award will forever serve as a reminder of his kindness and talent in service to the members of this community.

Photos from 2010 FFR Open House and Robert Fedderson Legacy Award Presentation
http://www.ffcars.com/forums/showthread.php?t=250166

Karen Salvaggio