Angela Sganga

Born on July 14, 1925, in New Brunswick, New Jersey, Angela was the daughter of Pietro and Maria Catanese and the beloved sister of Francesca “Fran” and Peter. Proud of her Sicilian roots, she lived most of her life in Queens, New York, where she built a full and beautiful life centered on family, friendship, faith, food, and love.

Angela was the devoted wife of Fernando Sganga, with whom she shared 71 years of marriage, countless laughs and a beautiful home until her final days. Together, they proudly raised their sons, Fred and John, and created a strong family tree that grew to include daughters-in-law Marianne and Monica; grandchildren Danielle, Nicole, Alex, and Jonathan; grandson-in-law Brian; granddaughter-in-law Dajana; and great-grandchildren Olive and Isabella.

A longtime resident of Flushing, Angela was one of the first school aides at Benjamin Cardozo High School when it first opened in September 1967. She was well-read, sharp, compassionate, and always interested in learning about the world around her through books, magazines and candid conversation. With a talent for stirring up connection, she remained fiercely loyal to her vast web of family and friends throughout her entire life, even when hearing and seeing them became a challenge.

Our family matriarch, Angela was perhaps best known for her wisdom relayed through many sayings, which she shared readily and often: “If you don’t ask, you’ll never know,” “The squeaky wheel gets the oil,” “Tell me who you hang out with, and I’ll tell you what kind of person you are,” and, in her later years, “Old age is not for sissies.”

Angela was not a sissy. Tough, kind, funny and resilient, she was deeply devoted to all of the people in her life – and there were many over the generations. She held our hand in a strong but loving grip day in and day out, including in her final days and hours.

Angela will be remembered for her beautiful smile and her generous kisses which often left behind a ring of red lipstick on her grandchildren’s cheeks. Her family and friends will forever cherish memories of her spritely singing voice, her daily phone calls and her delicious Italian cooking – including her famous meatballs. We will always cherish the way our beloved “Mom,” “Grandma Angela” and “Gigi” made everyone in her life feel seen and loved. We adored her right back and will forever honor her legacy of love.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Angela’s life on Monday, July 20 from 3-8pm at Frederick Funeral Home (192-15 Northern Blvd, Flushing, NY) and for a Funeral Mass on Tuesday, July 21 at 10am at Saint Andrew Avellino RC Church (35-60 158th St, Flushing, NY). Cremation to follow.