If you’ve spent time in Fribley Commons and spotted a bright smile from across the room—even early in the morning—it was probably David Laureano’s.
Laureano passed away late last month at the age of 63. A building service worker at Case Western Reserve University since January 2020, he is remembered by those who knew him as kind, gentle, hardworking and loyal.
“David was a wonderful person,” said Sonia Springer, department assistant in Campus Planning and Facilities Management. “He was a model employee and would go above and beyond what was required. He never complained and always had a smile for everyone he came in contact with.”
Laureano’s responsibilities included cleaning floors and carpets in Fribley and distributing supplies to other team members, but he was the kind of person who always wanted to find new ways to contribute. Colleagues noted he had seemingly endless initiative, often moving on to additional tasks after finishing his initial assignments. He also was known for often offering to help others on duty.
“David was a hardworking person, slow to anger, seldom frustrated,” said Joseph Thomas, assistant director of housing operations. “It was shocking to hear of his passing and if I can use the term ‘hard to replace,’ it is truly meant for David.”
That sentiment was echoed by Donnilla Long, building service worker and coworker of Laureano.
“He will truly be missed at Case Western Reserve University,” Long said. “I know he was an excellent brother, husband, father and man, and it was a pleasure to work with him.”
Laureano is survived by his wife, Aida; children, Joana and Evelyn; grandchildren, Jasleen and Adelina; siblings; and many other relatives and loved ones. A visitation will be held for friends and family from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday, March 7, at Slone & Co. Funeral Directors (13115 Lorain Ave., Cleveland), and services will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday, March 8, at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church (3114 Scranton Road, Cleveland).