Elio Angelo Chiappe

As a young boy, Elio attended a seminary in Lavagna, where he received a strong education. Among his childhood memories were the times his father waited outside to take him home, with Elio perched on the handlebars of his father’s bicycle. Elio lost his father when he was just 8 years old. In the years that followed, he learned many practical skills from his grandfather, Giacinto. Those lessons, along with the hardships of growing up in Italy during World War II, helped shape the independence, determination and resourcefulness that defined him throughout his life.

Elio went on to serve in the Italian Navy, never losing sight of his dream of making a life in America. In 1955, he arrived by ship in Baltimore with only a few dollars in his pocket. From there, he made his way west to Stockton, California, where he found work picking fruit. There, he met Geraldine Bonora, and the two married in 1956. Together, Elio and Gerry built a life centered on family, hard work and a shared commitment to one another. Their marriage endured for nearly 70 years, through all the joys and challenges of a lifetime together. Gerry's passing earlier this year was a profound loss for Elio, who missed her dearly.

Determined to build a better life for his growing family, Elio worked multiple jobs to make ends meet before becoming a partner in the Stockton Scavengers garbage company. In 1961, he and Gerry moved with their two young daughters to the Monterey Peninsula, where Elio had the opportunity to become a partner in the John Roscelli Corp., a local garbage company.

A natural entrepreneur, Elio never shied away from a new opportunity or a challenge. Over the years, he expanded his business interests into liquid waste services, RV parks and investment properties. He took great satisfaction in turning an idea into something tangible through ingenuity, persistence and hard work.

Beyond his work, Elio enjoyed traveling with Gerry throughout the United States and abroad. He also developed a lifelong passion for golf, playing whenever and wherever he had the chance. Among his favorite golfing companions was a group of fellow garbage men affectionately known as “The Swinging Collectors.” He was also a founding member of the Royal Order of Can Carriers.

Elio believed strongly in giving back to his community. For 57 years, he was a devoted member of the Carmel Host Lions Club, an organization that held a special place in his heart. He also served as a volunteer firefighter in Carmel and was a member of the Knights of Columbus.

Above all, Elio was a proud American whose life was defined by hard work, self-reliance, family and faith. His unwavering determination and lifelong “I can do” attitude carried him through every challenge. Elio was often the center of attention, whether gathered with family at home or enjoying his morning coffee group. He loved telling stories and had just a hint of mischief that made him all the more memorable. He loved his family deeply and remained steadfast in his faith in the Almighty Father, in whose loving embrace he now rests. He will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered.

Elio was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gerry, and his brothers, Luciano and Alessandro. He is survived by his daughters, Sandra Swenson and Julie Chiappe; his four grandsons, Jeffrey (Samantha) Abraham, Andrew Abraham, Mark Swenson, and Evan (Taylor) Swenson; his four great-grandsons, Epic, Ace, Stellar, and Carmen; his sister-in-law, Georgette Chiappe; and several nieces and nephews, all of whom he loved dearly.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Nov. 16 at the Carmel Mission, followed by a reception in Crespi Hall. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Carmel Host Lions Club.