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Cavalieri Memorial Tournament honors past IM bocce players

Top bocce players in the Cavalieri Memorial Tournament at Iron Mountain City Park included, from left, Lucas Cavalieri and Dominic Tatangelo, four place; Joe Fittante and Mike Cimarelli, third place; Mark Gasperini and Gary Pisoni, second place; and Bob Heinrich and Dennis Bilski, first place. (Courtesy photos)

IRON MOUNTAIN — The Ray Mariucci Bocce Complex was filled with competition, camaraderie, and remembrance as the Dickinson Area Bocce Association hosted the annual Cavalieri Memorial Tournament. The fall event, which closed out the bocce season, is held each year to honor and remember the players who have passed away but left lasting marks on the local bocce community.

This year’s memorial was especially meaningful as DABA remembered two beloved figures. Terry Calvi, a leader at the bocce courts who organized last year’s Cavalieri Memorial, was recognized for his dedication and steady leadership. Michael Scholke, a longtime Thursday Night Men’s League player, was remembered for his dependable presence and willingness to lend a hand whenever needed. Both men were integral parts of the bocce family and will be deeply missed.

The tournament also carried on the legacy of the organization’s founders. Ray Mariucci, who established DABA in 1992, helped grow bocce into a thriving community sport in Iron Mountain. One of his first recruits was his fellow north-sider, Anthony “Dave” Cavalieri, remembered for his skillful ability to raffa the bocce ball with precision and flair. Their passion for the game continues to inspire new generations of players.

The 2025 Cavalieri Memorial drew 30 players who formed 15 doubles teams. Round-robin play in three pools determined the top six teams, who advanced into a single-elimination bracket.

When the last ball was rolled, Bob Heinrich and Dennis Bilski claimed first place honors, followed by Gary Pisoni and Mark Gasperini in second. Joe Fittante and Mike Cimarelli finished third, and Dominic Tatangelo and Lucas Cavalieri rounded out the top four.

Chuck Kuder and Danny Kuder claimed consolation trophies at the Dickinson Area Bocce Association’s Cavalieri Memorial Tournament.

Brothers Chuck and Danny Kuder captured the Toilet Bowl Championship.

The Cavalieri Memorial remains more than just a tournament — it is a tribute to the players whose love of bocce built the foundation of today’s leagues, ensuring their memories live on through every roll of the ball.

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