Irma L Grasso Buccino

Irma L. Buccino, age 90, passed away unexpectedly surrounded by her family on Saturday, March 28, 2015. She was the daughter of Louis and Felicina Grasso. Irma was born in Manchester, CT but from the approximate age of 4 to 16, the lived in Asti, a city in the Piedmont region of northwestern Italy. Irma was preceded in death by her parents, husband Thomas Sr. of 66 years, brother and sister-in-law Remo and Janet Grasso, and her beloved Yorkie, Cara Mia.

She is survived by her son Thomas Jr. (Mary), grandson Michael (Leslie), cousins Carol Grasso, Angela Lisella, niece Elyse Grasso, and nephews Lawrence and Christopher Grasso and their families.

Irma was a generous woman of thought and high morals. She was quiet, but an outstanding listener. She made friendships easily; however cherished her few “true friends”. She worked hard all her life and supported her husband in self-employment for nearly 55 years. Business success and earned possessions were not a priority. Irma’s most valued gifts were her family.

Irma completed her primary and secondary education in Italy and could not speak English when returning to America in 1941. She lacked in confidence and though by US standards was assessed at a Jr. HS level, was wise and capable far beyond her years.

She hated boats, ants, and mean people. She loved animals, sweets, and liverwurst. She said “I love you” frequently, and “fooey” when frustrated. She enjoyed crossword puzzles and Scrabble; listening to Perry Como and Barry Manilow; and her favorite actor was Denzel Washington. After her husband’s passing, she still watched Gun Smoke, Bonanza, and The Rifleman.

Irma was a good woman. She will be missed by those whose lives she touched.

Irma was a resident of Eastwyck Village, Rensselaer, NY. A private celebration of Irma's life will be held at the site of her and her husband’s Tool and Die Shop, in The Packing House at The Mill Works, Willington, CT. The family asks that any donations be sent to Mohawk Hudson Humane Society, 3 Oakland Avenue, Albany, NY 12204.