When I watch DiNero in the Godfather, I admire his character. If you cross out the offing, the guy is a great family guy. He also understands quid pro quo and loyalty.
In the movie Godfather II, DeNero's character loves his wife and baby, his friends, his boss, his co-workers. He does murder the crooked neighborhood boss.
Murder cannot be condoned, but I thought the character he played was a great portrayal of a man who protected what he loved.