1924
2017
Elio Emil Grandi, 93, passed away Aug. 4 in Springfield, VA. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 59 years, Elena Jovacchini Grandi. He is survived by three children, Edward Grandi (Deborah Papier), Eric Grandi (Michelle Grandi), and Eliana Pitt (Jeffrey Pitt); eight grandchildren, Rachel Grandi, (David Budzinski), Pierce Grandi, Alan Pitt (Kelsey Pitt), John Grandi, Jordan Pitt, Clare Grandi, Bryan Pitt, and Ava Grandi; and two great-grandchildren, Charlotte Pitt and Eli Grandi.
Dr. Grandi was born in Boston, MA., to Paolo and Elsa Grandi. But he grew up and was educated in Italy, receiving a Doctorate in Letters and Philosophy From the Universita delgli Studi di Padova. He serves in the Italian Army during WW II. After the war, he moved to Washington, D.C., working as an interpreter for U.S. State Department.
He spent the remainder of his life in the Washington area, and was a major figure in its Italian-American community. He held leadership positions with the Italian Cultural Society and the Lido Civic Club. He also Founded the Italian Executives of America. He was an auditor for the for the Committees of Italians Abroad - Washington Consular district and a 33rd Degree Mason of the Scottish Rite - Roma Lodge. He also taught Italian classes at the Holy Rosary Church.
For his work, he was honored by the Italian government with the Star of Solidarity and two knighthoods of the Order of merit of the Republic of Italy,
Additionally, he was a longtime member of the Rotary Club of Chevy Chase.
In addition to working for the government, Dr. Grandi was an entrepreneur, primarily in the field of insurance. He founded and operated two insurance agencies, Grandi Associates and ASSURANCE Incorporated. He also served as Executive Director of the Italian Industries Association, an intermediary for companies and individuals doing business with Italy.
Memorial services are private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Italian Cultural Society of Washington, D.C. Arrangements under the direction of Murphy Falls Church Funeral Home, Falls Church, VA
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Murphy Funeral Homes.
September 11, 2017
Aldo Eskandary
This Aldo Eskandary wishing the Grandi family my deepest and sincere condolences. Got the news rather late sorry that I could not attend and pay my respects to the family. I was also a member of the Italia lodge 2001 about five years ago. In that respect we were considered brothers.
August 17, 2017
I am sorry for your loss. May the God of comfort be with you during your time of mourning. Isaiah 61:1,2 ; Matthew 5:4
August 14, 2017
Carla and Ugo Bertocci
Our deepest condolences to the family. Still remembering many beautiful hours spent with Elio and Elena.
August 12, 2017
Sorry for your loss may you you draw much comfort from God's word at Hosea 13:14. L Ohio
August 9, 2017
yvette Gluck
I worked with Dr. Grandi four years ago at his Greenspring home. He was so energetic, running up and down the stairs, refusing the elevators! He shared his many wonderful personal stories, and he was interesting, lovely and very entertaining. His friends at Greenspring will miss him very much.
August 9, 2017
yvette Gluck
I worked with Dr. Grandi in his home at Greenspring four years ago. He was so very athletic at the time, running up and down the stairs, eschewing the elevator! We shared lunch breaks, and he told me many wonderful personal stories. He was fascinating and so friendly and likeable. His good friends at Greenspring will miss him.
August 9, 2017
yvette Gluck
I worked with Dr. Grandi in his home at Greenspring four years ago. He was so very athletic at the time, running up and down the stairs, eschewing the elevator! We shared lunch breaks, and he told me many wonderful personal stories. He was fascinating and so friendly and likeable. His good friends at Greenspring will miss him.
August 8, 2017
Eric Grandi
Dad....thank you for all the love,caring and wisdom for the last 59 years. I will do my best to always carry on the Grandi name and tradition and teach my kids like you taught me that honesty and integrity are the two most important things in life. I love you Dad....hug and kiss Mom for me until we meet again.
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