Elzo Grelli

1926 - 2024

Elzo Grelli
08/10/1926 - 06/25/2024
Elzo Grelli passed away peacefully in his home on June 25th, 2024. He was a beloved Bisnonno, Nonno, Father and Husband during his 97 years of life. Long time resident of San Francisco and board member of the Italian social club, Marche Club of SF.
Elzo was born in Italy to Caterina (Ascani) and Giovanni Grelli on 8/10/1926. He grew up with his younger sister, Maria, playing with the livestock on their family's farm. During his adolescence, Elzo was a gifted student and had a passion for education.
Many do not know that Elzo went to Seminary school, until he found his true love in Yolanda. Yolanda and Elzo grew up across the street from each other in the Colombara, married in 1949 and spent 63 loving years together.
Shortly after their nuptials, they voyaged across the Atlantic to America. Soon after arriving, Elzo obtained his citizenship and was drafted to the Army, but luckily the war ended and he never had to leave.
Elzo recognized his gifts as a builder and achieved his goal of procuring his contractor's license. He built his family home with his own two hands from the ground up. He ran his business E. Grelli Construction for over 40 years in which his son, Michael, continues his legacy today.
Many of Elzo's cherished memories consist of Stag & Dinner dances at the Marche Club. These fun filled nights were spent indulging in delicious food & drinks, enjoying time with loved ones and cutting up the rug on the dance floor.
Elzo is now reunited in heaven with his wife, Yolanda; parents: Giovanni & Caterina; sister, Maria; grandson, Chris; and son-in-law, Sonny. On Earth he is survived by his children: Maryann Martin & Michael Grelli (Laura Moloney-Grelli); grandchildren: Jeremey Martin (Jessica Martin), Daniel Martin, Tatiana Grelli (partner Hau Tuikolongahau) & Angelo Grelli (Brittani Grelli); great-grandchildren: Anthony Martin, Gianna Martin, Hau Jr. Tuikolongahau, Giovanni Tuikolongahau & Milana Grelli.
A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, July 11, 2024 at 11am at St. Elizabeth Church, 459 Somerset St., San Francisco. Burial to follow at Italian Cemetery, 540 F St., Colma.