Ligita Cerasani, had strong character

Ligita Cerasani, 84, of Ocean View, formerly of Annapolis, Md., passed away Tuesday, May 4, 2021. 

Born Jan. 11, 1937, in Riga, Latvia, to the late Edgars and Betija Briedis, Ligita, and her parents later fled to Germany in 1944, and at age 14 she was sponsored to United States by the Lutheran Church and settled in New York. Ballet, tap, and piano were her passions, and she attended Elmira College and Rochester University.

Ligita married the love of her life, Arthur J. Cerasani, in Rochester, N.Y. They relocated to Annapolis to raise their children, and eventually opened Ski Haus Sports Center. They enjoyed attending BSO concerts and ballets at the Kennedy Center, and traveled as much as possible. 

Ligita, also known as Lee, made personal connections to employees, reps and customers. Known for her strong character, forgiving nature, sense of style, and loving spirit, Ligita always had a “joke of the day.”  In addition, she was an avid gardener, loved music, and her friends (the BGs) and always came to the rescue for those in need.   

Ligita is survived by her husband Arthur J. Cerasani; daughters Linda Fier and husband Bob of Millersville, Md., Andra Cerasani and partner Vince of Pasadena, Md., Lisa Cerasani and partner Tony of Selbyville, and Inga Strucko and husband Richard of Chester, Md.; brothers Bill Briedis of Delaware and John Briedis of Florida; grandchildren Blair, Lindsay, Ricky and Sara; and great-grandchild Bella.  Additionally, Ligita is survived by her dear friend and “sister” Inga Briedis of Delaware. She was preceeded in death by son Michael Melchiorre of Illinois.   

Cremation is private at the request of the family; a celebration of Ligita’s life may be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made in Ligita’s honor to the Macular Degeneration Association which can be made by visiting www.macularhope.org.

Online condolences can be left by visiting www.melsonfuneralservices.com