NEWS: Disney Legend Carl Bongirno Has Passed Away

Disney Legend Carl Bongirno has passed away at the age of 76.

Bongirno was a financial leader throughout the history of Disney Parks. He oversaw periods of huge growth with Disney Parks, including the birth of EPCOT, Tokyo Disneyland, and Disneyland Paris.

Bongirno, who was born in Pueblo, Colorado, had multiple degrees in business and accounting when he was hired as a chief accountant and controller for Disney. He later spent four years as the treasurer for WED Enterprises (what is now known as Walt Disney Imagineering). He was director of the Finance Division, and he was part of Project X, which eventually became Walt Disney World.

Bongirno went on to become vice president of finance and treasurer for Disney World, putting him in charge of the resort’s financial matters, as well as service activities like wardrobe, warehousing, transportation, laundry, and more.

In 1987, Bongirno stepped away from his business role with the company due to health reasons but stayed on as a special advisor to Walt Disney Imagineering. He assisted Imagineering with various projects until he retired in 1989. In 2007, the Walt Disney Company recognized him as a Disney Legend. He remained a staple in Disney Parks, though, and often called Animal Kingdom his favorite park.

Bongirno is survived by his children, Cara (Bret) Griebenow and Chris (Tiffany) Bongirno, and grandchildren Ryan, Anthony, and Jordan. A service for Bongirno will be held on March 12th at 11AM at Roselawn Chapel in Pueblo, Colorado.

Our thoughts are with Bongirno’s loved ones at this time.