Our precious Mother, Clara Maria Melgiovanni Russell has gone to heavenly sleep, resting peacefully amongst the angels. Clara passed away at her home in Palm City in the care of her loving family at 1:15 am on January 6, 2018. She, along with her devoted children, was the owner of the acclaimed Ristorante Claretta.

Clara was born on June 2, 1942 in Rome, Italy. Following the end of WWII, the family returned to their native hometown of Lago Maggiore. Clara spent the majority of her life raising her own family there until 1997. As a young student she attended the University of Pavia and earned a degree in Language. It is no accident that she was a gifted communicator. She had a remarkable style and ability that embraced people. If you went to Ristorante Claretta one time, or a hundred times, you would have been greeted with a sincere and genuine 'Ciao Bella' and warm European kiss.  As you left the restaurant you would have left the same way you walked in, feeling like you were part of her family. She had a special affection for her restaurant family. Forever, when you visit this fine establishment, one thing will be certain, you will feel her presence, for that legacy, her legacy, resides there, in her children.  Clara Per Sempre!

Her children describe Clara as their 'Rock Star'. Not only was she a "Madre per eccellenza", she had a very rare gift for love and devotion, one that makes families whole. Her gift extended beyond family and into the community. Clara possessed deep inner strength. She was kind and strong- willed. And although petite and beautiful in stature, she was a uniquely brave and courageous woman.  She was a single mother, who came to America in 1997 with her dedicated children and a

dream of owning a fine Italian eatery here in south Florida. A dream she accomplished. Undoubtedly, her family, was her greatest achievement. Palm City has lost a beautiful friend, mother, grandmother and soul.

In addition, she was a faithful member of Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, a proud sponsor of a many charities.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Andrea Melgiovanni and Maria Bobba Melgiovanni, and a brother, Alberto.

Clara is survived by three adoring children, Fabrizio Ingegnoli (Silvia) of San Vito al Tagliamento, Italy, Francesco Ingegnoli (Sheila) of Palm City, and Cristina Ingegnoli Maresca (Luigi) of Palm City and an 'adopted' daughter Grayson; four grandchildren, Francesco, and Emma Ingegnoli of San Vito al Tagliamento, Martina Maresca of Palm City, and Ayla Walker of Boca Raton: one great grandchild. Additionally, she is survived by a sister, Francesca Melgiovanni, and sister in-law, Maria Rosa Zaniboni, both of Italy.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 AM on Monday,  January 15, 2018 at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, Palm City, Florida.

For those who wish, contributions can be made to Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, PO Box 916, Palm City, FL 34991 in Clara's memory.