Rose F. (Vasallo) Salerno

Mrs. Rose F. (Vassallo) Salerno, age 88, of New Hartford, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 20, 2009 at the Siegenthaler Residential Hospice Center with her loving family by her side. Born in Utica on March 21, 1921, Rose was the daughter of the late John and Josephine (Graziano) Vassallo. She was raised in Utica and attended local schools. In October of 1946 she married Vincent “Jim” Salerno. They shared 62 years of true companionship and were supportive parents who focused on the well being of their family. Rose and Jim co-owned and operated the Super Value Food Market located at Seymour and Eagle Streets for 20 years. Their business was a family concern, and Rose embraced the responsibilities of cashier, greeter, and supporter of their endeavor. She also excelled in cooking and baking. She was a gracious and thoughtful grandma who adored her grandchildren and loved to hear the stories of her great-grandchildren. Rose is survived by her husband, Jim; her daughter and son-in-law, Cathy and Ron Romano of Ogdensburg, NY; her son, Joe Salerno and his partner, Alan Urek, of Philadelpia, PA; her grandchildren, Susie Romano, and Ronnie and Brandi Romano; and her great-grandchildren, Nathaniel Vincent, and Alexa Rose. Survivors also include her sister, Peppy Vassallo of Utica; and her brother and sister-in-law, Casper “Cappy” and Gloria Vassallo of New Hartford; her nieces, nephews, including Fr. Joe Salerno for whom she held a special fondness. She also leaves many special neighbors and loyal and longtime friends who have been so supportive and have shared much kindness. She was predeceased by her sister and brother-in-law, Anne and Sam Constabile; and her brothers and sisters-in-law, Thomas J. and Julia L. Vassallo, Philip and Margaret Vassallo, and John and Lydia Vassallo. The family is especially grateful for the compassionate care rendered by the staff of Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc. which was exceptional and of great support. The last days of Rose’s life were made most comfortable at the Siegenthaler Center where she was in the presence of wonderful caregivers who assisted her, as well as her family, through this difficult time. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. By family request, please omit floral offerings. For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial donations in Rose’s honor to Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc.; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Rose’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Wednesday morning at 10:00 from the funeral home and at 11:00 at the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes where her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by her nephew, Fr. Joseph Salerno. Entombment will take place in Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum.

Rose F. (Vasallo) Salerno

March 21, 1921 - June 20, 2009