Elena P. Zeni

With hearts full of love and gratitude, the family of Elena Pia Zeni nevertheless mournfully announces her peaceful passing on September 25, 2025, surrounded by many of those she cherished most. Born in Lover, Italy, Elena carried her Italian heritage through her life like a treasured song, during which she shared her gifts with those around her: an extraordinary touch in the kitchen, a deft seamstress, and the quiet artistry of crochet and knitting. Her home was always alive with the aromas of traditional dishes, the warmth of handmade comforts, and the beauty of flowers, vegetables, and herbs from her beloved garden. As a young woman, Elena lived through and survived World War II in Italy, carrying with her unbelievable stories from that time. Those experiences shaped her resilience, her faith, and her outlook on life, giving her strength and courage that defined her for nearly a century. In 1947, as a young woman of great courage and hope, Elena crossed the Atlantic to begin a new life in New York City, where she built a home filled with music, laughter, and love. Decades later, in 1991, she embraced the sunshine of Florida, bringing her vivacious spirit to a new community. Children and families always held a special place in her heart. She spent many years as a devoted nanny, delighting little ones with her gentle guidance, her playful humor, and joyful renditions of Italian Tyrolean folk songs. Elena’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. A devout Catholic, she found daily strength and joy in prayer, the sacraments, and promise of the Church through Lord Jesus Christ. Her rosary was never far from her hands, and her devotion inspired those around her to deepen their own faith. In her later years, Elena became the cherished matriarch of her neighborhood—a woman whose spunk, wit, and unmistakable sense of humor kept everyone on their toes. Her zest for life, her quick smile, and her kindness touched friends and family alike. Elena is survived by her beloved daughters and sons-in-law Martha and Franz Ritucci-Chinni and Loretta and Raymond Karpavicius; her treasured grandchildren Alexandra (John), Amanda (Justin), and Phillip; Nicole and Gregory (Mariah); and her adored great-grandchildren Agostino, Alexander, Aidan, Anastasia, Elia, Gianmarco, Nola, Sabine, Rowen, and Vittorio. She is preceded in death by her parents and siblings, and by her devoted husbands Vittorio Zanotti (1971) and Giulio Zeni (2020). Elena’s life was a testament to resilience, creativity, and faith. Her family will forever remember the sight of her tending to her garden, cooking signature dishes in the kitchen, the laughter of children echoing in her home, the soft click of knitting needles, and the way she made every gathering feel like a celebration. Though she has left this world, her spirit will continue to inspire all who knew her. Even at 98 years old, Elena’s passing feels far too soon. Her presence was a blessing, and the depth of her love for her family—and theirs for her—cannot be captured by words alone. She is missed beyond measure, and her absence leaves a space that can never truly be filled. A Mass in her honor will be held at a later date, followed by a celebration of Elena’s remarkable life. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that friends honor her memory by sharing a meal with loved ones, planting something beautiful in the garden, and saying a prayer of thanksgiving—just as Elena would have wished.

Elena P. Zeni

March 6, 1927 - September 25, 2025