Emilia (Galati) Altadonna of Modesto, CA passed away on New Year's Day surrounded by the love of her family and friends. She was 100 years young. Emilia was born in New York on Independence Day in 1920. Shortly after her birth, Emilia and her family relocated to Carini, Sicily where they lived for 18 years. They returned to the United States and settled in the Modesto area. Emilia was married for 72 years to the love of her life, Louis Altadonna, until his passing this past July. They were married on April 11, 1948 at St. Stanislaus Church and moved to New York before returning to Modesto in 1975.
Emilia leaves behind two children, Vincent (Linda) of Modesto and Linda Ridenour (Randy) of Oakdale. She was preceded in death by her oldest son, Cyril, for whom she grieved deeply. Emilia is survived by her 11 grandchildren, many great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and others she loved dearly.
Emilia will be remembered for her exceptional culinary talents. Her marinara recipe will be remembered for all who had the pleasure of enjoying it. Other pastimes included listening to opera, singing, writing, shopping, dancing, playing cards, traveling, and of course spending time with friends and family. She was a vibrant, lively woman who, at the age of 93, traveled with her husband and two grandchildren to Italy on vacation.
Emilia was proud of her Italian heritage which showed in the stories she retold of her charmed childhood in Italy and her desire to pass down family traditions. Emilia had a smile that lit up the room and was profoundly loved by many.
To quote Emilia, "Te abbraccio caramente" (I hug you dearly).
A graveside service will be held on Thursday, January 14, 1:30 pm at Lakewood Memorial Park 900 Santa Fe Ave. Hughson. (Masks required)
Donations: Optimal Hospice 1101 Sylvan Ave # B10, Modesto, CA, 95350 or to an Alzheimer's organization of choice.
FAMILY
Vincenzo GalatiFather (deceased)
Maria AnticoMother (deceased)
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