Vincent S. Cipriano

He was born October 9, 1949, in Ravenna, Ohio, to parents Guido and Vivian (Pitzer) Cipriano. Although Vincent was one of ten of the Cipriano children, he definitely danced to the beat of his own drum.

Vinny, as he was affectionately known, grew up as a member of Immaculate Conception Parish and graduated from Ravenna High School in 1968. He then joined the United States Army and proudly served in the Vietnam War.

When he returned from his service, Vinny focused on his career. This involved several different occupations, all based on his entrepreneurial spirit and smooth talking skills. He owned pizza shops, co-owned the East Main Saloon with his brother, Chip, was an insurance broker, and even worked a decade at the funeral home, extoling the benefits of pre-planning.

Vinny was a member of numerous area organizations, including VFW Post 1055, American Legion Post 331, Elks Lodge 1076, Eagles 2164, and the Italian American Society, where he displayed his bocce talents. He also enjoyed going to casinos, playing golf and boating. There was a legendary summer of 1990 with Captain Vinny trolling the waters of Lake Erie. Vinny was a Harley man and member of the fabled “Mauve Gang.” In his later years, he had to switch to a trike and then to his Thunderbird convertible, but always loved being on the open road.

Vinny was a natural comedian. He will fondly be remembered for his infectious laugh, quick wit, and crass comments. Beneath that playful exterior was a kind soul, who dearly loved his family and friends.

Vinny is survived by his siblings: Patricia Cipriano, Steve (Colleen) Cipriano, Tina (Larry) Hutchinson, Chip (Kemberly) Cipriano, Sam (Karen) Cipriano, Mike Cipriano (Lisa), Marianne Cipriano, Lorrie Cipriano (Chris) and Joey Cipriano. His memory will also be cherished by generations of nieces and nephews with many of his nieces referring to him as “Uncle Sugar." Vinny leaves behind many dear friends, including Tracy Crick.

Friends and family will be received Saturday, January 6, 2024, from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM with a memorial service at 1:00 PM at the Wood-Kortright-Borkoski Funeral Home, 703 E. Main St., Ravenna. A time to celebrate Vinny's life will follow at the VFW 1055 Hall, 6000 New Milford Rd., Ravenna. He will be laid to rest privately in St. Mary Cemetery with full military honors.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to VFW 1055 or the Portage Animal Protective League. Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.wood-kortright-borkoski.com Vince’s family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the staff of UH Cleveland for the compassionate care given to him.