Umberto Tanzini, 83, of 104 West South Street, New Knoxville, Ohio, died 4:40 A.M. Friday, March 12, 2010, at Joint Township District Memorial Hospital in Saint Marys.

He was born March 27, 1926, in Highland Park, Michigan, the son of Umberto and Eliza (Catton) Tanzini, who preceded him in death.

On February 6, 1960, he and the former Roberta Fledderjohann were married in Detroit, Michigan, at Salem Lutheran Church. Roberta survives at the residence and they observed their Golden Wedding Anniversary on February 6, 2010.

Umberto is survived by his two children: Nino (JoLynn) Tanzini of Shelby Twp, Michigan; Julianna (William) Weimer of Shelby Twp, Michigan; by two brothers: Nino and Mario Tanzini; by two sisters: Lucy Sapienza and Patricia Todd; by various in-laws, grandchildren, great grandchildren and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Albert Tanzini; two brothers; three sisters and various in-laws.

He attended school in Detroit, Michigan and served in the United States Navy during WWII.

In 1988, Umberto retired from General Dynamics in Michigan and from home building. He and Roberta then moved from their Michigan home to New Knoxville to reside in the home where Roberta was raised. Umberto was a member of First United Church of Christ in New Knoxville, was a former 3^rd grade Sunday School teacher, was a life member of the New Knoxville Historical Society where he did a lot of volunteering and restoration work. He was a long time member of the Shelby Oaks Senior Swingers Golf Group; member and supporter of various New Knoxville organizations; a member of the Auglaize County Humane Society. In 2005, he and Roberta were chosen as “Fans of the Year” of the New Knoxville Rangers. Umberto loved building and home construction, cooking and was an avid golfer. He was very proud of his hole in one on October 2, 1989. He also enjoyed trap shooting, yard care, fishing and playing cards. He had a warm spot in his heart for animals. He was always willing to volunteer; he loved music, especially Big Band and Italian music.

Funeral rites will be held 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, March 17, 2010, at the First United Church of Christ in New Knoxville, the Reverend David Williams, officiant. Burial will follow at Pilger Ruhe Cemetery.

Friends may call from 4-7 P.M. Tuesday in the Heritage Room of the church, where memorial donations may be directed to the New Knoxville Historical Society; Auglaize County Humane Society or the Radio Broadcast Fund of the church. Friends may also call one hour prior to services at the church.