Mrs. Theresa (Rastani) Bonanza

Mrs. Theresa (Rastani) Bonanza, age 82, of New Hartford, passed away Sunday, October 24, 2010 in the privacy and comfort of her daughter and son-in-law's home in Redwood City, CA. Unexpectedly, on the same day, her husband Charles "Chuck" Bonanza joined her as he passed just a few hours later. Born in Utica on October 25, 1927, Theresa was the daughter of the late Caesar and Santina (Adaline) Rastani. She was raised and educated locally, a graduate of T. R. Proctor High School. On September 11, 1954 she was united in the Sacrament of marriage to Charles F. Bonanza who passed shortly after her. They were a well-matched couple, a beautiful complement to each other during their 56 year marriage. They cared for one another and shared the love of dancing which made for a joyful relationship, and they were often looked upon as a “perfect match”. Theresa worked at Home Dairy in her youth, taking time off to raise her family. She then returned to work at Tony’s Spaghetti House on James Street where she shared her love and talent for cooking for over 10 years. Upon the closing of the restaurant, she accepted a position at Sparagna’s on Lenox Ave. until her retirement. Theresa was a strong-natured, hard worker, a source of inspiration and hope to all who knew her. She had a sharp sense of humor and a dynamic desire to please. She held good intentions and wishes for everyone in her life, and enjoyed the company of family and friends. Her home was adorned with many antiques and varied collectibles, evoking memories of her hobbies. The ‘big band’ era music provided the perfect motivation for the magic that occurred when Theresa and Charles lit up the dance floor. She also held a great affection for her pet parrot, Baby, who learned many tricks from his loving teacher, Theresa. The family tradition of spending summers at their 4th Ave. summer home at Sylvan Beach were the greatest of times for Theresa and a way to slow the tempo of the busy world. She was a parishioner of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish. Theresa is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Corrine M. and Paul W. Kronauge III of Redwood City, CA. Her daughter and son-in-law opened their home and hearts for her parents on October 5th of this year, to comfort and care for them at this time of their lives. Always close to her heart were the memories of her sons who preceded her in death, Steven J. Bonanza who passed in 1979, and David A. Bonanza who passed in 2007. She also leaves her grandchildren, Katerina Kronauge and Anika Kronauge, who cared for their grandparents with much love; David Albright, Elaine Bonanza, and Matthew Albright; and several great-grandchildren. Survivors also include her brothers and sister-in-law, John Louis Rastani of Utica, and Thomas “Tommy” and Sally Rastani of Marcy; her nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws, Annette Rastani, Donald A. “Don” Bonanza, James and Delores Bonanza, Robert and Ida Bonanza, Frances J. Bonanza, and Janice Hawelka. She was also blessed with many wonderful friends, including her longtime friend, Carm Tedesco, and dear neighbors, Sally and Don. She was predeceased by her sisters and brothers-in-law, Mary and John Francis Amrhein, Angeline “Angie” and Philip P. Polizzi; her brothers and sisters-in-law, Anthony and Theresa Rastani, Guy and Cecilia Rastani, Lugo and Marie Rastani, Louis E. Rastani, Infant Charles Rastani; and her in-laws, Joseph J. “Snooky” Bonanza, Jr., Patricia Lavier, Corrine M. Bonanza, Edith Rastani and Olive “Lee” Bonanza. Endeared to Corrine’s heart is the family loyalty, awareness, and inspired connection of her husband Paul’s devotion to her parents. His love and care through this meaningful experience is such a testimony to the man he is. The Bonanza family will long remember the absolute devotion and supportive friendship of Corrine’s longtime friend, Karen Sprague, who kept a loving watch on Theresa and Chuck. Visitation for Theresa and her husband, Charles will be shared Friday from 4:00-7:00 (today) at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Expressions of sympathy in the form of donations may be made to the Mission Hospice of San Mateo, California; envelopes will be available at the funeral home or donations may be directed to 1900 O’Farrell St., Suite 200, San Mateo, CA 94403 or www.missionhospice.org. Their funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Saturday morning at 8:30 from the funeral home and at 9:30 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish where their Mass of Christian Burial will be offered. Committal prayers and interment will follow graveside at Calvary Cemetery.

Mrs. Theresa (Rastani) Bonanza

October 25, 1927 - October 24, 2010