Giuseppe Violi

November is the month we remember those whom God has called to eternal life. On November 5, God called one more of the faithful home. Giuseppe Violi passed away a few days shy of his 84th birthday.

Giuseppe, or Joe as he was known in the US, was born on November 8, 1938, to Antonino and Rosaria (Ambrogio) Violi. He grew up the second of four children in Reggio Calabria, Italy. This beautiful city, on the toe of Italy’s boot, is part of the stunning landscape within the region of Calabria. Off the beaten path, but full of spectacular coastline, popular beaches, and Reggina Calcio who Giuseppe would argue is the greatest soccer team in Serie B.

Giuseppe was skilled in many things but most well known for his pastry treats. He trained, and honed is skills, in Zermatt, Switzerland at the base of the Matterhorn. There he worked in resorts, played ice hockey, and learned to speak some French and German. He moved back to Calabria and opened his own business, Lanterna Amaranto, where he baked his treats and everyone enjoyed a cup of espresso.

One summer, he drove a friend to a party, to a quiet mountain town just north of Reggio. There he met his future bride, Annunziata (Sofo). Annunziata, or Nancy as she is known in the US, was home on holiday visiting her family. After a whirlwind romance, Giuseppe sold his business and moved to the US to marry his love. They recently celebrated their 42nd wedding anniversary in late October. Once he was settled, he began work at the then, St. Vincent’s Medical Center, and rose to the rank of head baker. He worked hard every overnight shift so everyone could have delicious food the next day.

Giuseppe and Annunziata were blessed with two children, Rosanna and Antonino. Since he worked overnight, Giuseppe was always there for the kids’ events, Friday McDonald’s lunches, and of course those legendary birthday cupcakes. We couldn’t have asked for a better father, who was strict when necessary but the most jovial man you’d ever meet; he rarely was without a smile. He was a role model of what a great partner should be and would give the shirt off his back to anyone who needed it.

Giuseppe is survived by his wife, Annunziata. His daughter Rosanna (Paul) Hoelzle and his son Antonino (Stephanie) Violi. Those who called him Nonno: Olivia, Bernadette, Michael, Victoria, and Emilia Josephine. His brother Francesco (Nuccia) and his sister Marianna (Pietro Fortugno) of Reggio Calabria, Italy. His sister-in-law Carmela and her husband Carmelo Serravite of Pellegrina, Italy. His dear cousin Marianna of Henderson, NV. As well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Giuseppe was preceded in death by his parents and brother Bruno.

Friends and family will be received on Thursday November 10, 2022 from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Witzler-Shank-Walker Funeral Home, 222 E. South Boundary Street, Perrysburg. Rosary will be said at 7:00 p.m. Funeral Mass will be held on Friday November 11, 2022 at

10:30 a.m. at St. Rose Catholic Church. A funeral procession to Toledo Memorial Park will follow.

The family would like to thank the wonderful nurses and aides, with Hospice of Northwest Ohio, who helped care for Giuseppe through the final weeks of his life. Next time you wear burgundy, Giuseppe’s favorite color, think of him and his zest for life. As he always said, “Have a nice”.

Memorial contributions may be gifted in Giuseppe’s honor to St. Rose Catholic Church, Hospice of Northwest Ohio, The Alzheimer’s Association or to the charity of one’s choice.