The insignia of the Knight of the Order of Star of Solidarity of Italy presented to the family of the late Lee Porcelli

On Saturday, April 7th, 2007, during a convivial dinner at Piazza Italia in the Pearl District of Portland, the Honorary Vice Consul of Italy Andrea Bartoloni and the Consul Emeritus Carlo Ilio Mannocci presented the insignia of knighthood of the Order of Star of Solidarity of the Italian Republic to the family of the late Lee Porcelli.

June Porcelli accepted the award on behalf of the Porcelli family. All members of the Porcelli family were in attendance.

Lee Porcelli was one of the pioneers of the Italian community in Portland. With an humble start he developed the Koldkist Company and the Culligan Water into major enterprises of the Portland area.

Lee was a great supporter of the Italian causes. He was one of the original founders of the Festa Italiana and for many years he organized the annual Columbus Celebration with an uncanny passion and enthusiasm. Lee was a member of many civic organizations, notably the Knight of Columbus and the Portland Rosarians.

He was a great supporter of the Grotto Shrine and he always gave with sincerity and gusto.

The Italian government recognized his many contributions to the Italian American community of Portland and awarded him the knighthood last year. Unfortunately Lee was unable to receive the insignia and diploma as he was called to the Lord.

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