Lilia was born in Aquilea, Italy to Armanda and Armando Luchetti. She came to America with her mother when she was seven years old – seven years after her father was permitted entry. She would tell the story of coming to America like it happened yesterday. She learned English quickly, was an excellent student and became an avid Yankee fan since they lived in The Bronx not far from Yankee Stadium.
Lilia married Armando Bertolacci in Novemer 1941 and celebrated over 60 years of marriage. While Armando was in the Army they spent time in California. However, they returned to The Bronx where they raised their family: daughter, Judy and son, Steve.
When her children got older she went to work at Plymouth, a women’s clothing boutique. She had an amazing eye for fashion and could match her clients with the perfect outfits.
In a move that surprised everyone, she and her husband moved to San Diego to be near their daugther’s family; although they made frequent visits to their son’s family in New York on a regular basis.
Lilia loved to read-it was her passion. Her pizzelles, risotto, polenta and Thanksgiving Turkey, cooked to perfection, were just a few of her specialties loved by all. Lilia’s greatest joy were her five grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. She attended every milestone: christenings, baptisms, graduations, marriages, you name it she was there. Although born an only child, she became the matriarch of our family and an important part of our lives. Lilia/Mom/Gram/Nonni had charisma, wit and one liners that will be passed on for generations. She will be remembered with much love and missed dearly.
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