Carl J Alessandro

Carl J. Alessandro, born on June 7, 1942, passed away on January 9, 2026, at the age of 83. Dearest companion of Sandra Schaldach. Beloved father of Steven Alessandro (Erika). Cherished grandfather of Roman, Rocco and Sofia Alessandro.

Dearest brother of Richard Alessandro (Karen) and Patricia Theus (Pete). Dear uncle of Mark Alessandro (Jessica), Lisa Alessandro, Stefanie Blewitt (Matt) and Peter Theus (Amy).

A proud graduate of Parma High School, Carl earned his Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from John Carroll University—a foundation that launched a long and respected career in the Paint and Coatings industry. He was a cornerstone of the local professional community, active for many years in the Cleveland Paint & Coatings Association, the Cleveland Society for Coatings Technology, and the Cleveland Coating Society.

Carl spent the final 23 years of his career with his beloved BYK USA family. Though he worked from his home office, he was the ultimate ambassador for the city he loved. Whenever colleagues traveled into Cleveland, Carl was the first to welcome them, acting as a gracious host and steady companion. He took great pride in sharing a meal at his favorite spots in Little Italy or the local Italian gems around town, turning business trips into gatherings of lifelong friends.

Beyond his professional life, Carl lived life to the fullest; faith, family, and friends were the pillars of his world. A devoted member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Strongsville, he was also an active member of the Strongsville Rec Center, where he deeply valued the many friendships he made. He always looked forward to weekly golf outings with his buddies and was forever ready to plan the next adventure.

Carl enjoyed beach vacations most of all, with Maui and Naples, Florida, being among his favorite destinations. He also had a passion for wineries and wine dinners; visiting the vineyards of Niagara-on-the-Lake became a cherished annual tradition, and a trip to Napa Valley for his 80th birthday was a dream come true.

Carl’s quick wit and sense of humor were gifts that brought immediate smiles and laughter to those privileged to know him. He was uniquely gifted at communicating with others, making everyone feel comfortable and accepted in his presence. Always seeing the glass half full, Carl could find a solution to just about any problem. This trademark optimism enabled him to courageously battle cancer over the past twenty-seven months with a spirit of confidence and acceptance. The Lord peacefully called him home when the battle was over. He will be greatly missed by all whose lives were so richly touched by him.

Carl leaves behind a legacy of kindness, a love for a good glass of wine, and a reminder to always look for the best in people.

A Mass of Christian Burial to celebrate Carl's life will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Saturday January 24, 2026 at 12:30 PM. Entombment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery. The family will receive friends Friday January 23, 2026 from 4 - 7 PM at the A. RIPEPI AND SONS FUNERAL HOME, 18149 BAGLEY ROAD, MIDDLEBURG HEIGHTS, OHIO 44130 (WEST of I-71).