by the Italian Cultural Center of Minneapolis/St. Paul

It is with deep sorrow that we inform you of the passing of Massimo Bonavita, Co-founder and Honorary President of the Italian Cultural Center of Minneapolis/St. Paul. Massimo passed away on July, 2, 2016, in Cesena, Italy, at the age of 67.

Massimo was highly respected in Cesena where he began his political career as a young man, and eventually served as a Senator for three terms, from 1994-2006. Following his retirement, Massimo moved to Minneapolis and married ICC Co-founder, Anna Chernakova. Their vision was to raise awareness and appreciation of Italian language and culture in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area, and together they founded the ICC. Massimo served as President of the Board of Directors, but his passion, expertise, intelligence and positive force extended to every aspect of the organization.

Massimo always strove to do his very best, to live life to the fullest, and he understood the importance of kindness and hope even in painful and very difficult circumstances. We mourn his loss, but we celebrate the way he lived his life. We extend our heartfelt sympathy to Massimo's family in Italy, and most especially to his wife, Anna. Massimo's spirit will forever be the foundation of the Italian Cultural Center of Minneapolis/St. Paul.

Grazie di cuore, Massimo.