Ben Mannella

BEN MANNELLA, age 90

Beloved husband of the late Rose (nee Marino). Loving father of Jackie Mannella and Tony Mannella (Beth). Devoted grandfather of Jeremy (Amanda), Patrick and Miranda. Dear brother of Vittorio and Bert. Cherished "Uncle Benny" of many nieces and nephews.

Ben was born in 1933 in Pescocostanzo, Italy and came to the United States in 1948 at the age of 15, living with relatives in Cleveland. He proudly served in the US Army and was stationed overseas, during which time he was able to visit his family in Italy, now wearing his American uniform.

In 1960 he married the love of his life, Rose Anne (nee Marino), who preceded him in death in 2020 just before celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary.  They settled in Cleveland Heights in the home Ben had purchased in 1958. Eventually they moved to Richmond Heights where they continued to raise their family.

Ben was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend. He worked hard at multiple jobs for several years before starting his career at the South Euclid - Lyndhurst school system. Ben began as a bus driver there and worked his way up through the years to become Head Custodian at Brush High School. There he was well known and loved for many years until his retirement.

Ben was a skilled handyman. He was known by friends and family as someone who could fix anything. He also spent many hours in his garden and everyone would remark what a beautiful yard he had. Ben enjoyed playing bocce and cards with friends and treasured the time spent on family vacations, especially the annual family trip to Cedar Point.

Proud of his Italian heritage, Ben shared cherished traditions with his family, instilling a deep appreciation for their cultural roots. He was able to return to Italy several times to visit relatives there and share that experience with his kids and grandkids. He held a special place in his heart for Rose's delicious cooking and baking, a staple at the countless holidays and picnics they hosted over the years.

As Ben embarks on his next journey, we take comfort knowing that Rose awaits him with a bowl of homemade pasta and her famous Italian cookies, ready for a game of Scopa. Ben's enduring love and presence will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Entombment Lake View Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to meet for Mass of Christian Burial 10 am Friday at Holy Rosary Church, 12021 Mayfield Rd, Cleveland 44106. Friends may call at THE FIORITTO FUNERAL HOME, 5236 MAYFIELD RD, LYNDHURST (E OF RICHMOND RD) 4-8 PM THURSDAY.