Although not large in stature, he was a giant to those who knew and loved him!
Peppy enjoyed telling stories of his “old Italian neighborhood” in today’s Gordon Square area which seemed to always end with three common themes: friendship, loyalty, and most of all, family.
This special place is where he met the love of his life Elaine (Plochak) his wife of 63 years on West 65th and Detroit. His work ethic and sacrifice was unparalleled, maintaining two-full time jobs for over 30 years to insure a better life for his family. Loving father of Michael (Julie Kerr), Andrea (Phil Palmer), Johnny (Stacy Theis) and Danny (Amy Klein). Cherished grandfather of Isabel, Danny, Jake, Mariana, Anthony, Lucy, Julia, Benny, and Trudy. Dear brother of Florence (Isabella), Ralph and Kathy (Guzzo). Preceded in death by his beloved parents, Ernesto and Rose and brother’s Tommy and Sam.
A fantastic athlete, Peppy was proud to be Co-Captain of Ohio’s first national championship wrestling team in 1951. Recognized in the 1997 OHSAA State Wrestling program, his West High Cowboy’s state championship team was honored as “one that will never be forgotten.” In this publication, Ohio’s first three-time champ (1946-48) John Matteucci proclaimed that Peppy, who never lost a match, was the “finest wrestler I’ve ever seen.” He was also the Cleveland Touchdown Club’s 1956 MVP of the Muny Football League and a Gold Glove Champion. His love, kindness, and generosity will never be forgotten.
The family will receive friends at 10 a.m. for 1 hour preceding the Funeral Mass at 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 25th at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, 6928 Detroit Ave, Cleveland. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Roc4NBCure.org.
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