 He was well known for the healings of thousands as well as for the construction of a foundation in González Catán, Buenos Aires Province, which includes among other things free health care and education up to college level.Jose Mario Pantaleo was born in Pistoia, Tuscany, to Ida Melani and Enrico Pantaleo.His father was a successful businessman, though much of the Pantaleo family's wealth was lost as a result of World War I.