St. Andrew Catholic Church
1899 McCoy Road
Columbus
, Ohio 43220
Domenico Ciotola of Upper Arlington, peacefully passed away Wednesday, May 28, 2014, at the age of 84, surrounded by his loving family. He was the son of the late Francesco and Concetta Ciotola. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his brother, Benito Ciotola and his brother-in-law, Franco Policaro. Domenico was born in Cerreto, Italy on February 9, 1930. Before immigrating to the United States, he worked in Canada to support his family. With no knowledge of the language, culture and no formal education, Domenico immigrated to Columbus, Ohio, with his wife and three kids in 1968. In 1974, Domenico started DaVinci Ristorante with his brother Angelo. DaVinci Ristorante eventually became an Italian staple of Columbus, Ohio for many years. Domenico was the epitome of hard work, strength, kindness and values. He worked hard to support his family and provide them with a wonderful life. He had the strength to take the risk to leave all he knew in Italy, and start a new life in America. He was a kind, generous, fair gentleman who touched and inspired everybody who was fortunate enough to meet him. He was a devout Catholic with strong morals, values and exemplary work ethic that he instilled in his children. He was also a devoted family man with endless love for his family. He loved spending time in Marco Island, Florida, where he enjoyed playing bocce with the many wonderful friends he made there. He enjoyed gardening in his backyard and cooking for his family. Domenico was an angel of God who had such an aura that wherever he went, he always made friends and he will always remain in the memory of those who knew him. He is survived by his adoring and loving wife, Italia Ciotola of 61 years of marriage; daughters, Carla (Tommy) Piolata, Tina (Gregory Kim) Elsea; son, Frank (Carrie) Ciotola. Domenico is also survived by his grandchildren, Marisa (Ryan) Webb, Maria (Drew) Milligan, Andria (Adam) Bennett, Brother Tommy Piolata, OFM Cap., Jennifer (Bobby) Miller, Lora (Tommy) Goetz, Alisa and Giuliana Ciotola; and many great-grandchildren; brothers, Angelo (Silvia) and Bruno (Evelina) Ciotola; sisters, Dina (Joseph) Milano and Giovanna Policaro; sister-in-law, Maria Citoloa; many nephews, nieces, cousins, other extended family. The family of Domenico would like to thank Dr. Cooney, Dr. Pohar and Dr. Monk as well as the nursing staff at The Ohio State University Medical Center for their help and support. The family invites and welcomes everyone to join with them at the funeral Mass for Domenico at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, May 31, 2014, at St. Andrew Catholic Church (1899 McCoy Road, Upper Arlington) on his journey to Heaven. Domenico's funeral Mass will be presided by his cousin, Reverend Monsignor Romano Ciotola. Private family burial to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to either the OSU Bladder Cancer Research Fund (#312290), POB 183112, Columbus (43218) or the Capuchin Franciscan Friars-Augustine Province, 220 37th Street, Pittsburgh, PA (15201), specifying the donation in Domenico's memory. There is no visitation and services entrusted with THE JOHN QUINT TREBONI FUNERAL HOME, 1177 West Fifth Avenue, Columbus. Condolences may be sent via www.johnquint.com.