Dennis Michael Chiodini, 73, of Eureka died Oct. 2, 2023. Mr. Chiodini, a proud Italian American, was born and raised on “The Hill” in St. Louis. Alongside his brother Angelo, he opened the nationally renowned restaurant and local landmark known as Zia’s “on the Hill.” With the support of his wife, Robyn, coupled with his love for the food he grew up eating, he was driven to open a restaurant that has “changed the way St. Louisans eat.” For nearly four decades, he shared those same “Hill favorites” with hundreds of thousands of people from around the world. He enjoyed going into the restaurant to see the guys in the kitchen and the rest of the Zia’s family. He loved listening to music loudly while driving one of his race cars, attending concerts with his wife and telling jokes and stories. He adored spending time with his family and being a “Papa” to his grandchildren. Born March 14, 1950, he was the son of the late Edna and Louis Chiodini.
He is survived by his wife of 52 years: Robyn Chiodini; four children: Jason, Michelle, Nicholas and Cory (Michael); nine grandchildren: Mia, Gavin, Bryce, Charley, Dane, Cole, Samantha, Deklin and Kendall; a brother: Mark Chiodini; as well as many other family members and friends.
He was preceded in death a sister: Beverly Hilts; and brother: Angelo Chiodini.
Visitation is scheduled from 9 a.m. until a funeral mass at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 10, at St. Ambrose Catholic Church on the Hill, 5130 Wilson Avenue, in St. Louis. Burial will follow at Resurrection Cemetery. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or Shriners Hospital. Arrangements are under the direction of Schrader Funeral Home and Crematory.