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The community lost a true leader with the passing of Libert Bozzelli. After a long and remarkable life, dedicated to his family, his faith, and his community, Libert left us at the age of 97 ½.
A World War II Combat Veteran, he served his country with honor as a member of the Army-Air Corp Unit in the African campaign under General George S. Patton. Libert was honored in 2015 with a trip to Washington DC with the Honor Flight Program. There he was selected for the highly distinguished honor to place a wreath on the tomb of the Unknown Soldier; an honor Libert called one of his greatest.
Libert was employed in the sheet metal trade for 7 years before being elected by his peers to represent them as their business agent local 70. He fought for his members for fair treatment and fair wages and was so respected by them that he was reelected year after year for 34 straight years. The longest anyone has held this position continuously in the nation. Libert served on the Akron Labor Board, Akron Regional Development Board, Summit County Construction Board and Repeals Review Board. This earned him the Peter Bommarito Community Award from Akron Labor.
A devout Catholic, and a member of St. Joseph Parish for 72 years. You would find him at the noon Mass where on Sundays he ushered for 52 years. He served on Parish Council, Holy Name Society, member of the Knights of Columbus serving as Faithful Navigator. He earned the Cleveland Diocese Distinguished Catholic Award and the Knights of Columbus Service Award.
Libert was a lifelong public servant and gave to his community relentlessly. He served 20 years on Cuyahoga Falls City Council and 4 years on Summit County Council. During that time, he implemented many important projects. He fought for his constituents and the people he represented always making sure their voice and their interests were heard. He was instrumental in establishing senior citizen housing in Cuyahoga Falls and throughout Summit County. This earned him the Akron Housing Urban Citizen award.
Libert's true passion was fighting for the underdog. He was ahead of his time when it came to supporting mental health issues, the mentally challenged and handicapped youth and adults. He served on the boards of the Weaver School and Workshop, Tarry House for Mental Health and Housing, Fallsview Mental Health, served as President on Cuyahoga Falls Hospital, St. Thomas Mental Action Committee and ARC. He wanted all to have the opportunities, skills, and means to be a productive citizen and have a high quality of life.
Libert's voice was loudest when he was trying to get approval of the construction and funding for the Internal Brotherhood Home for Alcoholics. His words were heard as IBH is a success today. This earned him the Salvation Army Lifetime Humanitarian Achievement Award.
In 1985, Kent State asked Libert to help them open The Kent State University Museum, an institution displaying important collections of fashion and decorative art. When they needed a leader to ensure their plans could be executed effectively and efficiently, Libert stepped up to become the first President of the fashion museum.
Italian heritage meant a lot. He was a member of the Italian Professional Business Men's Club, Kenmore Italian Club, Carvollese Men's Club, Italian Council and Sons of Italy where he played a role in leadership positions in each organization. He earned the Council of Italian American Society Service Award.
Libert gave his life to others, but his family was his priority. Sunday pasta dinners with his children, grandchildren, friends and neighbors were a weekly occurrence. The family gathered again at his home for every holiday celebration.
Married to the love of his life for 75 years, on August 25 Libert died of a broken heart. He joins his wife Madeline who proceeded him in May.
Libert leaves his children, Dennis Bozzelli, Marlene and Eric Czetli, Kathleen and Bernie Hovey, Tom Bozzelli and Ken Pollard; 6 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and 6 great-great grandchildren.
Thank you to his dear friends for your visits and meals. He enjoyed your company and your friendship.
Calling hours 4-7pm Sunday, September 11th at Ciriello and Carr Funeral Home, 810 Portage Tr. in Cuyahoga Falls. Mass of Christian Burial 10am Monday, September 12th at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Cuyahoga Falls. Interment at Oakwood Cemetery.
Donations may be made to the Madeline Bozzelli Fund at the Akron Community Foundation, 345 W Cedar St. Akron, OH 44307.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Libert Bozzelli, please visit our floral store.