Luigi Altobelli, 98; Master Jeweler Created Monstrance at St. Charles

Luigi Altobelli, a master goldsmith and jeweler for seven decades who created the monstrance for the St. Charles Church in North Hollywood, has died at the age of 98.

A native of Modugno, Italy, Altobelli died of natural causes Nov. 1 at his home in North Hollywood.

His most important work was considered to be the church’s seven-pound, diamond-studded gold monstrance, fashioned of materials donated by parishioners. He completed the commissioned piece in 1966 after more than 5,000 hours of work over 6 1/2 years.

Born Oct. 13, 1891, Altobelli apprenticed with his father at the age of 5 and became master of his own shop at 15. Five years after that, he emigrated to the United States and worked for many years in Chicago.

During that period, he created most of the handmade platinum jewelry collection of the McCormick farm equipment family.

In 1948, he moved to North Hollywood and built the building that continues to house Altobelli Jewelers at 4419 Lankershim Blvd.

After his retirement, Altobelli painted more than 30 canvases in oil and acrylic, wrote his autobiography and six novels, and composed an operatic libretto.

The well-rounded Altobelli also was an accomplished horseman, long-distance swimmer and marathon runner.

Survivors include his daughter, Maria Abondolo, his son, Cos Altobelli, four grandchildren and one great-grandson.

The family has asked that memorial contributions be made to the Jewelers Education Foundation of the American Gem Society, 5901 W. 3rd St., Los Angeles.