It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Diego Mozzanica, of Bloomfield, CT, a cherished husband, devoted father, adored grandfather, and beloved great-grandfather. He departed this world peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family on Friday, October 20, 2023, at the remarkable age of 99.

Born on June 1, 1924, in Lecco, Como, Italy, Diego was the son of Angelo Mozzanica and Nina Del Barba. At the tender age of 17, he embarked on a courageous journey into World War II as a member of the Italian Navy. He ultimately became a German prisoner of war, enduring two years in a German internment camp. With the war’s end, he returned to serve in the reconstructed NATO affiliated Italian Navy. While on a Navy assignment in the USA, he met his wife, Gloria. In 1955, they married, settled in Hartford, CT and began a beautiful journey together. Diego pursued his passion for industrious work as a licensed HVAC electrician and plumber. In 1965 the family moved to Bloomfield, CT.

Diego was a man of remarkable intellect and self-taught wisdom. He became an avid reader of both Italian and English, immersing himself in the realms of philosophy, history, world politics, and opera. With Gloria by his side, he connected deeply with his Italian heritage through visits to his home in Morbegno, Italy for more than 30 consecutive years. He reveled in the continuation of Italian traditions, from crafting wine to nurturing his garden, a passion he pursued until the age of 98. Diego’s ingenuity and generosity shone through in his inventive spirit, repurposing objects with a creative flair, while always ready to lend a hand to friends and neighbors.

Yet, for all his remarkable talents and interests, Diego’s legacy is that of a devoted family man whose priorities were his wife, daughters, cherished grandchildren and great grandchildren. His steadfast loyalty, kindness, charm and boundless affection touched the hearts of all who were fortunate to know him. Diego Mozzanica was a loving hero who will be deeply missed.

Diego is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Gloria Marieni Mozzanica. He also leaves behind two daughters, Lydia Mozzanica Tedone (Peter Tedone) of Simsbury, CT and Christine Mozzanica Carlsten (Lars Carlsten) of Charlotte, NC. Diego’s legacy further extends to his cherished grandchildren, Matthew Tedone (Katie Tedone) of Ponte Vedra, FL, Nina Tedone of Albuquerque, NM, Dana Carlsten (Kitty Hoard) and Elise Carlsten all of Raleigh, NC, and great grandchildren, Jax and Elle Tedone; sister, Anna Mozzanica Polvara also of Lecco, Italy. He was predeceased by his siblings, Lidia Mozzanica and Luciano Mozzanica of Lecco, Italy.

A private Celebration of Diego’s life will take place at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in Diego’s honor be made to the Bloomfield Volunteer Ambulance Fund, Inc. P.O. Box 945, Bloomfield, CT. 06002, online at bvafund@gmail.com or Greater Hartford Area Services of The Salvation Army 225 Washington Street Hartford, CT 06106.