Michael E. Spena

Michael E. Spena, age 76, beloved husband for 53 years of Rosemary (nee Yuhas), cherished father of Michael E. Spena, Jr. (wife Elizabeth) and Rebecca McCalligan, loving papa of Michael Spena, Gabriella Spena, Grace McCalligan and William Spena, beloved son of Michael Spena (deceased) (wife Marilyn) and Angelina Spena (deceased), dear brother of Joseph Spena (wife Linda), Mary Spena-Bosch (husband Dave), Christopher Spena (wife Tina), Jimmy Spena (Pam Fazio) and Nina Bogus (husband Dennis), loving uncle of many nieces and nephews.

Michael was very passionate in his approach to life, regardless of whether he was at work or play.  In 1975, as a young man, he started a successful landscape design-build construction company.  A decade later, he expanded that business to include a hardscape supply yard.  Because of his work ethic and his commitment to perfection, his beautiful landscape installations will be his legacy throughout the greater Cleveland area for many years to come. Deeply devoted to the green industry, he was involved with the Ohio Landscape Association for 50 years acting as President and Treasurer throughout his membership.  He also served on the board for the Associated Green Industries as Treasurer for many years. He was recognized for his contributions to the industry with Lifetime Achievement awards for both OLA and AGI. Michael was very proud of his Italian heritage, whether making pasta with his family or being involved with Italian organizations.  Michael was the “trash man” at The Feast and a gondolier and tenor in the Columbus Day parade. He spent many hours beautifying the Italian Cultural Gardens.  In 2018 he was honored with an award from the Cleveland Italian American Heritage Committee.  He especially relished his membership at Club Molisani,  enjoying the camaraderie of his many friends.  A strong family connection was also important to him.  He particularly loved his four grandchildren and enjoyed trying to beat them at bocce or cards.   A big personality with an even bigger mustache; he loved a good cigar, a single-malt scotch and a winning bocce game. 

Private Interment will take place at Western Reserve Memorial Gardens. Family and Friends are invited to gather for Mass of Christian Burial 10 am Saturday, March 14, 2026 at Holy Rosary Church, 12021 Mayfield Road, Cleveland, OH 44106. FRIENDS MAY CALL AT THE FIORITTO FUNERAL HOME, 5236 MAYFIELD ROAD, LYNDHURST (EAST OF RICHMOND ROAD) ON FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2026 FROM 4 TO 8 pm.

In lieu of flowers, contributions suggested to Holy Rosary Church at the above address or Club Molisani Charities Scholarship Fund, 29101 Euclid Avenue, Wickliffe, Ohio 44092 (please indicate on check In Memory of Michael Spena.)