Bernard L. Canepari

BERNARD  CANEPARI, 80, passed away Saturday, December 17, 2022, surrounded by his beloved wife Dorothy (nee Nalesnik), and daughters Eileen Canepari and Dorothy J. Canepari. He was preceded in death by his parents, Phillip and Veronica, and his brother, Phillip J.

Bernie was born September 24, 1942 in East Chicago, IN. He attended John Carroll University from which he received a M.A. degree in history with a focus on Soviet ideology. He entered the U.S. Army as a second lieutenant, served in Korea and Vietnam, and was discharged as a captain. He retired from Cuyahoga Community College after 20 years as a career specialist.

While at John Carroll University Bernie was tricked into auditioning for a role. He intentionally gave a bad audition, hoping not to get cast. However, the director recognized his talent and cast him. That was a start of a career in acting.  Bernie was a familiar face in the Cleveland theater community having appeared in productions at the Ensemble Theater, the Jewish Community Center, Great Lakes Theatre Festival, Dobama. While at Charenton Theatre, he was voted Best Performance by an Actor for the 2004-2005 season for his portrayal of Shelly “The Machine” Levine in Glenn Gary, Glenn Ross.  He had also appeared in over fifteen films and in numerous commercials. 

Bernie was a great storyteller and after 50 years we never tired of hearing tales about his family. He also was known for his great sense of humor, quick wit, and pin-point accurate descriptions of people and events.

A Memorial Mass will be held Friday, December 30 at 10:00 am at St. Mary Church, 250 Kraft Street, Berea, Ohio, 44017. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Salvation Army.

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