Concetta "Maria" Abbate

Maria was born on May 21, 1936, in Bivona, Sicily, and embarked on a brave journey to America in 1951 at the tender age of 15. It was in Brooklyn, New York, where she met and fell in love with Giuseppe Abbate, her beloved husband of 70 years, who predeceased her in June 2023.

Maria was a devoted mother to Mary, Vivian, Frank, and Sal, and a loving grandmother to twelve grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Her family was the center of her life, and she treated each member with unconditional love and care. As a skilled seamstress, Maria wove the fabric of her family with the same care and precision as her craft.

In 2000, Maria returned to her birthplace in Sicily, a trip that rekindled precious memories and connections with her cousins and the town that held her early stories. A woman of deep faith, Maria's devotion to God was evident in her kindness and generosity traits she shared with her late sister, Vivian, with whom she shared an unbreakable bond.

Maria's absence leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of those who knew her. Her warm smile, nurturing embrace, and the way she always made us feel loved and important lit up our lives. Without her, things won't be the same, especially at family get-togethers, where we'll miss hearing her stories and laughing together.

On her birthdays, we'll remember Maria and imagine her enjoying her heavenly birthdays now. We picture her celebrating with angels and family members already there with her. Here on Earth, it's comforting to picture her smiling and at peace, celebrating in heaven just like she used to do with us here.

Maria's final days were spent surrounded by her loving family, who ensured her return to her own home for her peaceful passing. We find comfort in knowing that she was greeted in heaven by her husband Giuseppe, sister Vivian, and other beloved ones.

Maria is survived by her dear brother Cesare, four children Mary (Bob) Klyn, Vivian (Darrin) Welsh, Frank Abbate & Salvatore (Anna) Abbate, twelve grandchildren Alex (Dayne) Ventrone, Ryan Welsh, Chase Klyn, Jake Klyn, Tara (Mark) Mettes, Jason/Deuce Rinderknecht, Riley Abbate, Joseph Abbate, James Abbate, Clay Simmons, Chance Abbate & Bobby Abbate and three great-grandchildren Lily Ventrone, Layton Ventrone & Ryder Rinderknecht.

In addition to her parents, Salvatore and Vincenza Migliara, Maria was preceded in death by five siblings, Onofrio, Louie, Angelo, Vivian, and Cesare 1st (age 5).

We invite family, friends, and those whose lives were touched by Maria to celebrate her remarkable life. A viewing will be held at West Resthaven Funeral Home on Tuesday, February 6th, from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm, followed by the funeral service on Wednesday, February 7th, at 10 am.