Claire M. Rusich Roman

Claire M. (Rusich) Roman, 68, of Rocky Point, passed away September 18, 2011, surrounded by her family. Beloved wife of Mario; loving mother of John & Taryn; Kristina; Ilana & Antonio Oroz; Sandy & Matt Higgins; Rio & Jodi. She was the very dear grandmother to Matteo & Amanda Roman and Kiersten & Vincent Higgins. She is survived by her sister Janie Rusich along with several other nieces, nephews, cousins and relatives.

The daughter of the late Matteo and Angela (Francovich) Rusich; Claire was born in Pula, Croatia and immigrated to the United States in 1951. She lived in a refugee camp prior to sailing to the US onboard the USS General Harry Taylor.

Claire graduated from St. Helena’s High School in the Bronx and received a scholarship to Marymount Manhattan College in New York City. She graduated from Marymount and later obtained her Masters Degrees from Adelphi University (Special Education) and CW Post (Educational Technology).

Claire had a passion for teaching and devoted 32 years to Special Education and Assistive Technology at Eastern Suffolk BOCES.

Throughout her life, and especially in retirement, Claire enjoyed traveling and spending time with her family. From road trips throughout the US, cruises in the Caribbean and Adriatic seas, and several tours across Europe, she was ever the adventurer and ready for the next trip. With her family always at the forefront, she worked to build a home on the island of Zirje, Croatia where they created lifelong memories in her self-proclaimed paradise.

While embracing her culture, Claire was an active member of the Histrian Women’s Association and helped with their newsletter. She greatly enjoyed those meetings and spending time with cherished friends.

Claire will be best remembered by the love for her family, friends, and all those she welcomed into her home and heart.

Arrangements: Thomas M. Quinn & Sons Funeral Home, 35-20 Broadway, Long Island City, NY, Weds Sep 21. Wake 2-5 & 7-9. Funeral Mass Thurs at 10:30, Most Precious Blood RC Church. Burial at St. Michael’s Cemetery in Astoria.