Gene was a native Staten Islander, born to John and Anna Dierauf on September 11, 1928. Raised by her father and beloved sister, Anna, after the death of their mother at age eight, Gene graduated from Tottenville High School in 1946 with Secretarial Honors. Married in 1949, Gene was a devoted homemaker for many years. She later worked at U.S.P.H.S Hospital then continued at Bayley Seton Hospital. Gene found her position in the Gerontology Dept. fulfilling.She retired in 2003 and moved to Delaware.
Gene had a love of nature and inherited her mother’s green thumb with a passion for gardening and flowers. She enjoyed cooking, baking, bowling, crossword puzzles, the Yankees, and playing pinochle. Gene was a strong and thoughtful woman who offered wisdom to friends and family. She was a proud mother and loving grandmother, devoted to her grandchildren, playing an active role throughout their lives. Her home cooked meals and family dinners will be forever treasured.
Gene was preceded in death by her parents, her sister, Anna DeMartinis (James), and a brother. Ex-wife of the late Joseph H. Parise to whom she was married for 18 years. She is survived by her children: Joseph Parise (Christine), Robert Parise (Patricia), and Ann Marie DeFrietas; seven grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.
Family and friends are invited to visit and celebrate Gene’s life on Friday, Nov. 22 from 6 to 9pm at Harmon Funeral Home, 571 Forest Ave. Departing Harmon Funeral Home on Saturday, Nov. 23 at 10am for interment in St. Joseph’s Cemetery.
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