Grandma was simply the best - she always made each of us feel like the most special ones. Her house was filled with love, warm hugs, lots of pizza, and always dessert (and whatever weird food Grandpa was eating)! My heart will always miss her, but I'm filled with the most loving, special memories that I will carry with me always. I feel so lucky to have had her for so long and am so glad she met my kids - her great-grandchildren. This picture is from our last visit where she told me the pictures on her wall were all of her memories - her life. What a life it was! 

As always my mom (and dad) were about kids. From Her years or raising kids, to over a decade and a half of volunteering at Ronald McDonald House in New Hyde Park at (then) Schneiders' Childrens' Hospital. Not only all of us, neighbors (really not neighbors, family) their kids, their children's kids. Mom was always hearing about someone - if she knew them or not, having a child, she would immediately crochet a pair of high top sneakers, roller skates or Mary Jane's.  From the Udeshi's next door who became family (and would have their grandchildren come over to visit Tony dada and Rita), the Casiano's being family of over 50 years, if anyone visited they knew and have experienced family traditions of Raimos' pizza and garlic knots; family recipies of Thanksgiving stuffing and that one devilish dish: home made horseradish. 
More so, everyone experienced what was practiced her entire life:
Unconditional love. 

So very sorry to hear of mom’s passing. I have fond memories of the family and the fun we had growing up . I’m sure she will now be able to keep an eye on the “old neighborhood” especially keeping my dad in line.
Our prayers are with the family.
“Mrs. Kirsch” as we respectfully new her, will always be loved by all who knew her.

Sincerely,
Rosalie (Graffeo) & Nick DiMaiuta

Just saw the obit in Newsday.  My deepest sympathy to the entire family.  I am still in the Jay Street house and have fond memories of the Kirsch family...  Susie taking us to the beach and Billy joining Kathy Cunningham and me for TV watching in my garage.  

Like they say, "When someone becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure." My  parents are also gone - Mom (9 years) my Dad (40 year).

Again, my Good grant you the peace that you need at this time .

"Eddie" Saueracker

We are sorry to hear about your mom.
Both of your parents were wonderful neighbors.  We always enjoyed talking with them.. The old neighborhood is together again in heaven.  You are in our prayers.  With our deep sympathy and love, Carl and Christine Graffeo

Mom loved children with a passion so it seemed appropriate to post this one of her granddaughter and great grandchildren.  Her face lit up the room when any of us came to see her.  It would be hard to find anyone who got more joy out of her family.   From being there, and cheering her kids on, at every event we were ever part of, to little things like playing catch in the front yard, to making sure we knew we were loved in so many subtle ways, and so very much more...  I can't think of a better way to remember her than with a big smile and family on her lap.  That was the essence of Rita.  Love ya Mom.

Mom was kind, thoughtful, loyal, curious, funny, generous, courageous, supportive, humble, strong and feisty.  She taught us all about unconditional love and being part of a community.   She especially loved children and wanted us to  all have happy, productive lives, and did everything she could, sacrificing for us, to make sure we had the opportunity to pursue our dreams.   She had a long life, well lived.

OBITUARY

Rita Helen Kirsch

November 27, 1928 – January 21, 2021

Vernon C. Wagner Funeral Homes

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