Nov. 3, 2011

Fighting Illini gymnastics legend Joe Giallombardo passed away on Oct. 13 in Richardson, Texas, at the age of 94. Giallombardo was one of the most decorated collegiate gymnasts of all time, winning seven individual NCAA Championships, which ties for most in NCAA history. The 13-time All-American captured national titles in tumbling, flying rings and the all-around in 1938 and again in tumbling and the all-around in both 1939 and 1940 while also helping the Illini to three NCAA team championships. Giallombardo collected six Big Ten titles as well, including two top finishes in both tumbling and the all-around and one on parallel bars.

Giallombardo served in the United States Navy during WWII. After his tour of duty, he taught and coached gymnastics at New Trier High School in Winnetka, Ill., where he founded the Illinois High School Gymnastics Coaches Association. After he retired as a coach, Giallombardo judged gymnastics at the collegiate and international levels. Giallombardo was inducted into the Illinois High School Gymnastics Coaches Hall of Fame and USA Gymnastics Hall of Fame.

He is survived by his wife, Edith, four children, 12 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and sister, Rose Corniello.