Louise K Kuhlenberg

Louise (Zappasodi) Kuhlenberg

August 29, 1929 – September 29, 2025

Cincinnati, Ohio

A Life Woven with Courage and Care

Louise, beloved wife, mother, sibling and cherished “Noni,” passed away peacefully in her sleep on September 29, 2025, surrounded by her devoted daughters and family; closing a remarkable chapter of 96 years—each year a testament to her unwavering spirit and boundless love.

Born in Monteprandone, Italy, Louise’s life was shaped by courage. With the promise of a better future shimmering across the Atlantic, she left behind the familiar embrace of family and friends to journey to the United States. She arrived not knowing the language, clutching hope, her husband’s hand, and dreams for the child she was soon to welcome. Upon arriving in Cincinnati, Ohio, she planted new roots, guided by the four pillars that defined her: fearlessness, family, food, and faith.

Louise’s hands were gifted as a talented seamstress and she worked in a men’s suit factory. That position led her to a long-term career in alterations working for Peppe Ramundo Custom Tailoring. Her artistry dressed local professional athletes and Hollywood stars.

Home was Louise’s haven. Her kitchen radiated warmth and the aromas of pasta and sauces simmered frequently. For Louise, food was communion—a way to nurture, to celebrate, to remember. Her table welcomed family, friends, and strangers alike, always with enough for one more.

Louise’s story is woven from threads of resilience, hope, and devotion. She lived without fear, loved fiercely, nourished abundantly, and believed deeply. Her journey from Italy to America transformed not only her destiny but the destinies of those blessed to know her.

Louise is survived by her daughters, Rita Scudder (Bob) and Mary (Aggie) Mendenhall; three grandchildren: Michelle McKluskey (Richard), Eileen Flaugher, and Tom Herman (Michelle); eight great grandchildren: Amber, Cheyenne, Michael, Trinity, Max, Priya, TD and Maverick; one sister: Gina Grawe (Richard); two sisters-in-law, Gabriella Zappasodi (Frank, deceased) and Francesca Zappasodi (Mauro, deceased) and countless nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Maria Zappasodi; husband, Charlie Kuhlenberg; two sisters: Armida Marziali (Armando, deceased) and Francesca Zappasodi; and two brothers: Frank Zappasodi and Mauro Zappasodi.

As we bid farewell to Louise, we remember a life beautifully lived—a tapestry of fearless migration, family devotion, culinary tradition, and faithful strength. May her memory shine as brightly as the stories she leaves behind, and may we all continue to gather around the table, celebrating the gifts she shared so freely.

Family and friends are invited to a visitation on Monday, October 6th from 4:30 PM until time of Mass at 5:30 PM, with a reception to follow in the church undercroft, all taking place at St. William Catholic Church, 4108 W. 8th Street, Cincinnati, OH 45205.

Thank you, Louise, for every stitch, every meal, every prayer, and every embrace. You will forever be in our hearts.

Many thanks to the care givers, Artis Senior Living Home, Queen City Hospice & family members who cared for her in recent months.

The family suggests that friends make memorial contributions in honor of Louise to the charity of one's choice.

Dalbert Woodruff and Isenogle Family Funeral Home is honored to serve the family.