Leo Cervetti Obituary

Leo A. (Bence) Cervetti December 16, 1917 - August 28, 2007. Leo was born in Divernon, IL. to Frank and Aemelia Cervetti. He grew up on the family farm and worked in the coal mines. He moved to the Chicago area as a young man. He served in the military during WWII. He was stationed in the Philippines from 1941 to 1945. After his military service, he did a variety of jobs, from owning his own cab company to being a contractor. He and Anna Cervac were married on October 23, 1948 in Highwood, IL. They traveled west and fell in love with Colorado. They moved to Colorado in the mid 50's. Leo was a brick layer and stone mason. He worked on the Air Force Academy Chapel, and buildings in Colorado College and CU Boulder. Leo and Anna moved to Colorado Springs in 1955. In 1958, they opened Luigi's Restaurant, still one of the few continuously family owned and operated restaurants in Colorado Springs. Leo loved the restaurant business. He continued working until just the last several years. Leo is survived by Anna, his wife of nearly 59 years; three daughters; Cindy (Dale Knobbs), Gina (Les Costley), Cristina (Rob Coleman) and six beloved grandchildren: Nicholas (18), Rachel (10), LeslieAnn (22), Linsey (20), Jacob (4), and Caroline (2 weeks). Leo was a hardworking man who cared about his family, his friends, his customers, and his employees. He helped many people over the years through employment at Luigi's, monetary and moral support, or simple "fatherly advice." He loved the mountains, hunting, and fishing. On his last fishing trip this summer, he caught a 4 plus pound trout! Leo passed away peacefully at home, with his family by his side. We will dearly miss him. Leo hated being the center of attention, but there will be a celebration of his life on Monday September 10, 12 noon, at St. Paul's Church in the Broadmoor. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Colorado Veteran's Coalition (719) 477-1639.