Lia Valente Borazo, age 90, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 10, 2022 at St. Mary's in Manitowoc surrounded by her loved ones.

She was born on May 6, 1931 in Rome, Italy. Lia was preceded in death by her parents, Enrico Valente and Luigina Paolini Valente; and her husband, the love of her life, James D. Borazo.

Lia spoke five languages and was an exceptional designer. She owned her own clothing business in Rome and created original pieces for clients under her label, Lia Valente Designs. Lia was also a teacher for 18 years. She taught Spanish, Italian, Clothing Design and Sewing classes in both public and private schools. She loved all her students and inspired many with her creativity and generous spirit. She retired from teaching in 1996, yet continued to create beautiful clothing for private clients, friends, and family for the duration of her life. Lia was also an exceptional cook and loved to host traditional Italian dinners in her home. If she wasn't in her studio sewing or knitting, she was in her kitchen making delicious food, with her favorite opera music playing in background.

Lia had a generous, vibrant spirit and had a way of making everyone feel like a cherished, good friend. No one every walked away from Lia feeling sad or lonely. She made sure everyone's spirit was generously fed with incredible food, engaging conversation, and most importantly, unconditional love.

She leaves behind her son, James Borazo, Jr. (Rhonda); her daughter, Tania Haile (Dan); and her four grandchildren, Kassandra, Collin, Connor, and Lia. She also leaves behind dear friends, Brad and Belinda Yakel, Steve and Cynthia Swedish, and Greg and Chris Whalen.

A private Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, May 6, 2022 with a private burial to follow at Evergreen Cemetery.  Online condolences to the family may be sent to www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Lia Borazo's name can be made to Hope House of Manitowoc County.

The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory, North 11 ^th and St. Clair streets, Manitowoc, is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.