Claudio S. Poiani

CLAUDIO SERGIO POIANI

On October 19, 2024, Claudio Sergio Poiani, beloved husband of the late Eva Maria Poiani, peacefully passed into the arms of heaven, surrounded by his family. Born in 1936 in Pola, Italy, Claudio immigrated to the United States in 1955, where he proudly served his adopted country for 30 years in the U.S. Army, rising to the rank of Command Sergeant Major. His distinguished military career took him across the globe, leading to a retirement filled with honors and fond memories.

Claudio was married to Eva for 56 beautiful years until her passing in 2016. Together, they raised their sons, Luciano and Steve, and built a life of love and adventure, dancing through the years. Claudio's devotion to his family and military service were central to his life. His joy for travel, cultivated alongside Eva, blossomed again after her passing when he met a wonderful woman, Walli Benecke, during his travels. They married in December 2022, bringing new light and companionship into Claudio’s golden years.

Claudio was deeply committed to his community, where he served as a former Bowie Civic Affairs Committee member and co-chaired the Bowie Memorial Day Parade. A proud veteran, he was an active member of the local VFW chapter, American Legion Post, and Disabled American Veterans. Claudio also dedicated his time to the Knights of Columbus, serving as Past Faithful Navigator of the St. John N. Neumann Assembly and Past Grand Knight of the Sacred Heart Council. Additionally, he cherished his Italian heritage as a member of the Bowie American Italian Social Club and Past President of the Bowie Sons of Italy.

Claudio is survived by his loving sons, Luciano and Steve; their wives, Josclyn and Michelle; and his cherished grandchildren, Hailey, Sarah, Sean, Samuel, and Justin; and adorable great-grandchildren Kieran and Juniper. He is also survived by his cherished wife, Walli Benecke, who brought him joy and laughter in his later years. Claudio will be remembered for his loyalty, strength, love for his family, and enduring dedication to his country.

Please join Claudio’s family and friends for the Funeral Mass at St. Edward the Confessor, 1940 Mitchellville Rd., Bowie, MD, on Saturday, November 16, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., followed by a repast in the Social Hall. Interment at Arlington Cemetery will take place in the near future. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that you honor Claudio’s memory by contributing to a charity of your choice. Please view and sign the family’s guestbook at: www.beallfuneral.com.