Nereo Condini

Nereo Condini, "Ned" to friends and editors, passed away on May 12, 2014 in Asheville after a brief illness.

Born in Turin, Italy, he became a US Citizen in 1976. Educated in Italy, England, and Berkeley, with a PhD in American Literature, he was a Fullbright Visiting Professor at Vassar and East Texas University, before teaching several years in Westwood, NJ.

A reviewer and journalist for La Stampa (Italy) and the Village Voice, among others, a prize-winning poet, writer and translator, Ned's work reflects a humane understanding of life and a grateful appreciation of beauty and grace. Two of his major prizes are the American Pen Poggioli Prize for translation and the William Butler Yeats Society Prize for poetry.

With Marilyn, his wife of 48 years, he traveled extensively and once interviewed Salvatore Allende, former president of Chile. Ten years ago Ned and Marilyn moved to North Carolina, enjoying the beauty and hospitality of this land. Ned was a founding member of the Lost Playwrights of Western North Carolina.

His blessings go to the nurses, staff, and doctors of St. Joseph Hospital.

A memorial service will be held at a later date in Montvale, NJ, his home for many years.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Community Partnership for Pets, P.O. Box 1021, Flat Rock, NC 28731.

An online register book is available for family and friends by visiting www.thosshepherd.com.

Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors is in charge of arrangements.