Claude Victor Bolzan

CLAUDE VICTOR BOLZAN, age 77, died peacefully on Monday, June 13, 2016 after a long battle with ALS. He is survived by his loving wife Linda Bolzan (nee Parente) of 53 years, his three children, Claudia Kuthoore (Ramnath) of Concord, OH, Nico Bolzan (Nancy) of Westlake, OH, and Enzo (Jenelle) of Strongsville, OH, grandchildren: Anjali, Damian, Divya Kuthoore; Nicole, Milania, and Valentina Bolzan; and Gianni Bolzan. He also leaves behind siblings Norma, Raphael, and Janine; he was predeceased by his brother Nicoletto in 1972.

Born in Toulouse, France of Italian descent to Benvenuto and Angelina Bolzan. Claude was a spirited man who lived life to its fullest. He came to the United States in 1958 at the age of 18, following his older brother, Nicoletto, and worked as a union cement finisher for over 50 years. He worked tirelessly to help support his parents and sibilings still living in France. Claude met his wife Linda at dance held at the Trentina – a local club for Italian Americans. Together Claude and Linda raised their three children, hosted countless extended family gatherings, and participated as active members in the Italian American community in Cleveland.

In addition to his long career as cement finisher, Claude loved to spend free time hunting, fishing, cycling and soccer. He delighted in the outdoors. Following his retirement, he loved visiting with friends and spending time with his grandchildren. Claude was fluent in French, Italian, and English, and valued education and hard work, second only to family and faith.

Claude’s legacy will live on through his beloved extended family: Maria Izzo, Antonio Gallo, Pete and Rose DiFilippo, Tony and Guiseppina Parente, Basilio and Rita Vitanza, Luigi and Yvonne Parente, Joe and Madonna Parente, Joe and Sylvia Teresi, Marinette Bolzan, John and Francoise Alvarez, Nicoletto Bolzan-Roche, Alex Milluzzi, Bob Milluzzi, and Fernanda Venier. Claude never believed in designations of in-law or cousin. Family was simply family – a value he hoped would live on in his memory.

The entire Bolzan family extends its deep gratitude for all of the love, support, and prayers that were given throughout his battle with ALS, and they pray for a cure to end this disease that others may be spared.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Bartholomew Church, 14865 Bagley Rd., Middleburg Heights, Friday, June 17, 2016 at 10 a.m. Entombment Holy Cross Mausoleum. Friends may call at THE RIPEPI FUNERAL HOME, 5762 PEARL RD., (AT SNOW RD.), THURSDAY JUNE 16 FROM 2-8 P.M.