Silverio Colalancia

Silverio M. "Sil" Colalancia passed away on the 84th anniversary of his birth, Nov. 11, 2011, surrounded by his family. Born in Cansano, Italy, on Nov. 11, 1927; preceded in death by his loving wife of 46 years, Virginia (Nigro) in 1996; parents (Martina and Luciano); sister (Annina); in-laws, (Rose and Frank Nigro); sisters and brothers-in-law, Lorraine and William Reininger, Eva and Leo Alfonso, Jean and Mike Nigro and Rosa Colalancia; and nephews, Kevin and Paul Alfonso and John Collette. He is survived by children, Lucy (Michael) Giordano, Martha (Mario) Nogare, Jeannette (Kelvin) Melton, Darlene (Anthony) Bonfiglio and Silverio (Patty) Colalancia; and grandchildren, Michelle and Eric Slyter, Gina Nogare, Craig and John Melton, Tiffany (Joe Tabares) and Kayla Bonfiglio, Maria and Silverio Colalancia; and great-grandson, Jiovanni Tabares. Also survived by brothers, Giuseppe and Donato (Anna Marie); sisters and brother-in-law, Stella Allen and JoAnna and Albert Collette; numerous nieces and nephews; special nephew, Adelchi Masciotra; and special friend, Lil Santarelli; as well as many friends. Daddy immigrated to the United States in 1947 and lived in Boston, Mass., and Gallup, N.M., where he worked in the coal mines alongside his father. In 1948, he moved to Pueblo, where he began working in the galvanized department at CF&I. He obtained his master pipefitter certification in 1957 and retired in May 1986. Daddy met our mother, Virginia, and married in 1950. He enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving in the occupation forces in Germany during the Korean Conflict. He continued his military obligation through the U.S. Army Reserves until 1959. He was a very devoted husband, father, papa and great-papa, who kept his family at the heart of all that he did. Rich family traditions were at the core of his beliefs. He always enjoyed sharing conversation and a good glass of homemade wine. He was never happier and more proud than when he was surrounded by those he loved. Daddy was greatly loved and will be missed. Our gratitude to the many devoted CNAs and nurses from ICU and 4th Tower at Parkview Medical Center, Dr. Tom Gaide, Dr. Greg Bowman and other special physicians who provided Daddy’s ongoing care and attention during his final days. Our thanks as well to Springbridge Therapy Center through Life Care for their role in attempting to restore his strength. The family respectfully requests that any donations be made in his honor to Our Lady of the Meadows Catholic Church or a charity of your choice. Viewing, 2 to 4 p.m. today, and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, George McCarthy Funeral Home. Funeral Mass, 2 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2011, Our Lady of the Meadows, with entombment to follow at Imperial memorial Cemetery. Online Condolences at www.mem.com. Arrangements by George McCarthy Funeral Home.