Italian Sons & Daughters honored Rico Lorenzini as the Grand Marshal of the 34th Annual Columbus Day Parade in Bloomfield, Pittsburgh’s Little Italy. The parade took place on October 8, 2022.
Our Grand Marshall Rico Lorenzini was born in Ponte Buggianese, a small town near Lucca, in Tuscany in 1938. Due to economic conditions, he left school at the age of 12 to work at his uncle’s restaurant in Torino. He worked at various restaurants and resorts throughout Northern Italy before legally immigrating to Pittsburgh in 1958. Rico chose Pittsburgh because his father Renato, and two uncles, Nello and Dino had already immigrated and were living in Dormont with their families. Despite not speaking much English, his extensive training in the kitchen landed him a job in less than ten days after his arrival. Rico’s Restaurant opened its doors for business in Ross Township on November 3rd, 1979 and has proudly been serving guests ever since. Initially, Rico’s Restaurant could only seat 40 guests but today, after several expansions, Rico’s can accommodate 400 guests. His success is attributed to an impeccable work ethic, dedication to his craft and above all else, the support of his family; wife Gloria of 58 years, his children David, Rico, Susan and John, his daughter-in-law, Bonnie, his son-in-law , Michael and his four grandchildren: Marina, Sofia, Giulia and Lucas.
He is honored to be named Grand Marshall of the Columbus Day Parade. Rico would like to thank everyone that has supported him throughout the years, specifically the Italian Sons and Daughters of America. Additionally, he would like to extend a personal congratulations to his friend and fellow Tuscan, Franco Harris for an amazing career and the retirement of his #32 jersey.
