Irene M. O’Neill Dardano of Melbourne Beach, Florida passed away at the age of 81 on Saturday, December 31, 2011. Irene was born on December 11, 1930 in Ensenada, Puerto Rico to Patrick “PJ” Joseph and Irene O’Neill. The youngest of three, Irene grew up in Puerto Rico.

She graduated from the University of Santa Maria in Ponce in 1951 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education. In the summer of 1952, she fell in love with Salvatore Dardano Jr., a Pharmacist who was visiting family in Puerto Rico. They were married for 58 wonderful years and have three children and five grandchildren. Most of their married lives were spent in Vernon, New York running the family businesses prior to moving to Melbourne Beach in 1983.

Irene led an extraordinary life and those of us that were touched by her kindness and compassion will be forever grateful. She was a life-long devout Roman Catholic and an active member of Immaculate Conception Church of Melbourne Beach.

Irene took great pride and joy in raising her family with her wonderful sense of humor, joy of teaching, love of animals and nature and her ever-growing sense of exploration.

Much of Irene’s life was spent volunteering as a Girl Scout leader, a Cub Scout leader, a homeroom mother and a PTA member, as well as participating in various local service clubs.

Irene loved to travel throughout the US, Canada, Europe and the Caribbean Islands. She was an avid reader, a competitive golfer, a gourmet cook, a serious bridge and cribbage player and an ardent gardener. Irene cherished sharing these activities with her family and friends.

Her true passion was to have a palette and brush in her hands. Irene was an accomplished watercolor artist. Over the years, her works of art were on display for many to enjoy; and today Irene’s creations adorn the walls of our homes and hearts.

Irene is survived by her husband, Salvatore Dardano of Melbourne Beach, Florida. Her son, Kevin Dardano (Lisa) of Rockledge, FL; daughters Anita Campbell (James) of Rockledge, FL and Ellen Duval (Peter)of Underhill, Vermont; grandchildren Jeffrey, Katie, Taylor, Connor and Maura; and numerous nieces and nephews.

The last years of her life, Irene spent battling Alzheimer’s in the loving care of the Autumn House staff. Their care and compassion was unwavering and we thank you for loving our mother, too.

A special thank you to Vitas Hospice Team 184 – Meg and Cathy we are so grateful to you!

Irene was a loving wife, an exceptional mother, and the “best friend” everyone wishes for! She will be deeply missed and forever loved by many!

A celebration of life will be held on Thursday, January 5th, at 1pm at Immaculate Conception Church in Melbourne Beach, Florida.

Arrangements entrusted to Brownlie-Maxwell Funeral Home,1010 E. Palmetto Avenue, Melbourne FL (321) 723-2345.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Brevard Alzheimer’s Foundation.

Tuesday, January 3, 2012

facebook love

FROM facebook: We keep reading posts to Dad, who doesn't go near a computer and he asked us to put them all in one place so he could read them. 


Ellen Duval

Headed to Florida as my Mom's struggle with Alzheimer's comes to an end.
 ·  · December 29, 2011 at 4:21pm
    • Maureen Martellotto Cohen When do you arrive?
      December 29, 2011 at 4:23pm · 
    • Maureen Martellotto Cohen I am so sorry for you, but I'm sure it will be a relief in some way...
      December 29, 2011 at 4:24pm ·  ·  1
    • Beth Sforza Yazell Very sorry...sending prayers!
      December 29, 2011 at 4:34pm · 
    • Conal O'Neill I am very sorry to hear this news... I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
      December 29, 2011 at 4:52pm · 
    • Holly Jonathan Kunert Hang in there, Ellen. We're thinking of you.
      December 29, 2011 at 4:56pm · 
    • Susan Walker Sending prayers to you, Ellen. She was always so sweet to me when we were growing up.
      December 29, 2011 at 5:04pm · 
    • Stacy Lee Oh Ellen, warm hugs and thoughts coming your way.
      December 29, 2011 at 5:05pm · 
    • Katie Clark thinking of you...
      December 29, 2011 at 5:09pm · 
    • Kristina Marcussen Love you Ellen
      December 29, 2011 at 5:22pm · 
    • Kathleen Hanrahan So sorry El - will be thinking of you and sending prayers...xo
      December 29, 2011 at 5:34pm · 
    • Laura McBride Prayers are with you. Sorry to hear of your mom's struggles. I have so many good memories of her.
      December 29, 2011 at 5:37pm · 
    • Amy Croft Ellen, will think of your family and send heartfelt feelings to you and your family. I still have the graduation necklace that she gave us "Vernon" girls!!
      December 29, 2011 at 5:45pm · 
    • Kate Winterton Peterson Prayers for you and your family-my dad has dementia so we are traveling a similar path. Take care of yourself...she was a wonderful lady.
      December 29, 2011 at 6:16pm · 
    • Kirsten Vogt Rose I wish you all peace in this next phase, will keep you in prayers, and a special prayer for your dad.
      December 29, 2011 at 6:16pm · 
    • Wendy Sogoloff Gossage so sorry Ellen... It's been a tough year!!
      December 29, 2011 at 6:27pm · 
    • Ann E Howe Oh Ellen - I am so sorry. She was so filled with faith I am sure she will be happy to get to the destination she always prayed for. She was very special to me - and I am so glad I have so many wonderful memories.
      December 29, 2011 at 6:51pm ·  ·  1
    • Ellen Duval Thanks everyone we're feeling the love! Maureen we arrive at 12:40am. It was hard to find a flight. We're renting a car and heading to Anita's. Depending on how things are going I may head right to mom.
      December 29, 2011 at 6:51pm · 
    • Jen Bergersen Porrier Thinking of you. Sending our love. Xoxo
      December 29, 2011 at 7:00pm · 
    • Keely Sogoloff kev and I are thinking of you. Our hearts are with you
      December 29, 2011 at 7:19pm · 
    • Julie Sweet Prayers and thoughts to all of you many good memory's at the dardano home
      December 29, 2011 at 7:28pm · 
    • Courtney Rose so sorry. thinking of you. safe travels!
      December 29, 2011 at 8:37pm · 
    • Kelly Kimball Oh El -- I'm thinking of you! One of my favorite memories of my childhood was sleeping over at your house and waking up to your Mom cooking breakfast with her hair in a long loose braid all the way down her back. I remember thinking how special it was I got to see it down. She was a gem to me. Love you tons.
      December 29, 2011 at 8:54pm ·  ·  1
    • Lauri Benny Walker So sorry to hear that Ellen, my prayers are with you and your family at this very difficult time.
      December 29, 2011 at 9:42pm · 
    • Rebecca Anne Gerow Dennee Hugs and Love to all of you... I echo Kelly's sentiments - I spent many long hours with your Mom...speaking Spanish, and admiring her flair with life... and listening to her stories of growing up with her parents... -and the large painting she did of the big red/orange poppy stays forever in my memory- not to mention the love she showed me! -Loved and appreciated her soooo much!
      December 29, 2011 at 9:46pm ·  ·  1
    • James T Belton God bless you and your family Ellen
      December 29, 2011 at 10:07pm ·  ·  1
    • Bob Dardano Thinking of you and your family. Aunt Irene is my godmother and was always a special presence.
      December 29, 2011 at 10:15pm ·  ·  2
    • Cynthia Gerow Andisio My heart skips a beat as I read this. The love and warmth your mother and all your family showed me holds special places in my heart and will always. Know your mom was loved by so many. When I think of her I think of integrity, honor, humor, class, depth of feeling, strength, wonderful stories, style, wit, faith, the love and meaning of family. Such wonderful lessons she taught so many of us. The richness and blessings of her life she shared with us. God bless all of you and know we are all with you with love. HUG.
      December 29, 2011 at 10:38pm ·  ·  1
    • Leslie A. Dee Ellen we are thinking of you and your family. Hope your goodbye is peaceful. Safe travels.
      December 30, 2011 at 12:00am ·  ·  1
    • Dina Vullo Laino Ellen, so sorry to hear about your Mom. She was a special lady. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
      December 30, 2011 at 8:35am ·  ·  1
    • Nicole Luongo Thompson Thinking of you Ellen. Take care.
      December 30, 2011 at 10:39am ·  ·  1
    • Beth Torpey My thoughts and prayers are with you. Keep yourself well
      December 30, 2011 at 12:02pm · 
    • Gina Mike Kropiewnicki I'm so sorry to hear this Ellen. Sending my love to you and your family.
      December 30, 2011 at 2:04pm · 
    • Andrea Twiss-Brooks Ellen, so sorry to hear this - strength and peace to your family.
      December 30, 2011 at 2:26pm · 





Mom passed away peacefully with all 5 of us together at 9:43am. Kevin, Anita and I stayed up all night with Mom talking and telling stories. Dad joined us at about 6:15am. We're all exhausted but also relieved.
 ·  · Saturday at 12:22pm
    • Bob Dardano I'm glad you could all be there together with her and with each other.
      Saturday at 12:22pm ·  ·  1
    • Leslie A. Dee Ellen. We are so sorry on your loss. However so glad you could all be there together and with your mom. Hopefully in time this will be a good memory. Thad & Leslie
      Saturday at 12:30pm · 
    • Susan Walker How beautiful that you were all together like that, sharing and loving her on her way...
      Saturday at 12:39pm ·  ·  1
    • Kathleen Hanrahan Im so sorry for your loss Ellen but glad you could all be there with her.... Hugs. Remember the love and laughter you all shared and find comfort that she is at peace. Xo
      Saturday at 12:41pm · 
    • Holly Jonathan Kunert There are few that get such a wonderful opportunity to get such nice closure. Good memories to hold in your heart forever.
      Saturday at 12:48pm ·  ·  1
    • Lauri Benny Walker So sorry for your loss Ellen,but thankful you were there with your family to share those precious memories. Prayers being sent for you all.
      Saturday at 1:06pm · 
    • Ann E Howe I am so sorry Ellen - I truly loved your mother. What a beautiful way for her life to end... she is with the angels now.
      Saturday at 1:13pm · 
    • Janet Streeper My thoughts& prayers are with you all...see you soon.
      Saturday at 1:35pm · 
    • Rebecca Anne Gerow Dennee Thank you for letting us know... I was in vigil during the night here in MD. -I am so glad you all were together. Love and many hugs to each of you- her life impacted mr in a way I will always be grateful.
      Saturday at 2:12pm · 
    • Deb LaManque How fortunate you all are, to be together loving and showing your mom that you are all okay as she goes on ahead.
      Saturday at 2:55pm · 
    • Kelly Kimball Sending love to you El, and to Kevin, Anita and your Dad. What a gift to her to have you all there. Perfect.
      Saturday at 2:57pm · 
    • Leila Rae Thurston Probably the hardest thing you will ever have to do. This day may feel empty, and the days ahead will too. Big hugs and my condolences El.
      Saturday at 3:01pm · 
    • Kirsten Vogt Rose On this side you watch her ship sail away and pray "there she goes", on the other side they see her sails approaching and say "here she comes!" May she rest in peace, and your memories comfort each other and guide your way. She was a fine lady, living on in her children and grandchildren.
      Saturday at 3:36pm ·  ·  4
    • Jen Bergersen Porrier She's with Al and Dad now. My thoughts are with you. xoxo
      Saturday at 4:04pm · 
    • Maureen Martellotto Cohen You are all in my thoughts. Having fond memories of Aunt Irene...See you soon.
      Saturday at 4:24pm · 
    • Andrea Twiss-Brooks As hard as it is to lose a parent, one of the greatest gifts you can have is to be able to be there to say your goodbyes. One of my saddest but most cherished memories is sitting with my dad, holding his hand and talking to him when he passed peacefully at home. You'll have your final memories memories to add to your store of memories to see you through the sadness.
      Saturday at 4:37pm · 
    • Susan Lillich All of us here are thinking of you and sending loving thoughts to you and the whole family.
      Saturday at 5:18pm · 
    • Pamela Taylor Barnes So sorry for your loss Ellen. However, what a beautiful way to complete the circle of life. I hope I will be so lucky too.
      Saturday at 5:31pm · 
    • Carol Agrimson Oh Ellen, sigh....sorry to hear of your loss....
      Saturday at 5:47pm · 
    • Jeff Rowland Thank you for sharing this Ellen. Sending you peace and love.
      Saturday at 6:08pm · 
    • Julie Sweet Prayers and thoughts to all of you. Sincere regards...
      Saturday at 6:12pm · 
    • Patty Duke Ellen, Thinking of you. my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
      Saturday at 7:14pm · 
    • Lisa Honeycutt Buentello Ellen, so glad you and your family were able to be there all together. You'll be able cherish the memories forever. Sending prayers your way for strength to continue on.
      Saturday at 8:02pm · 
    • Misty Benedit Ellen, I am sorry for you lost. Your in our prayers always.
      Saturday at 10:15pm · 
    • James T Belton I am very glad to have known your mom. Your parents have been very nice to me since I was a little boy. I never knew your mom to have anything other than a smile on her face and a kind word. It may seem weird but with their china cabinet in my kitchen, I think of your mom and dad often. God bless you,Kevin, Anita and your Dad. I am sure God is blessing your mom with all of the beauty of Heaven.
      Sunday at 12:46am · 
    • Alison Miyake It is so good that you were able to be there with her. I hope you are able to send some time with family there. So many things to remember about her life and your life together, it is good to be able to share that with family. I am sorry for your loss.
      Sunday at 1:55pm · 
    • Johanna Belton Love and hugs to you all. So sorry. You are all in our prayers.
      Sunday at 2:24pm · 
    • Nancy Bergersen I'm so sorry for your loss but know she has peace at last....Am glad that you all could be there with her
      Sunday at 3:16pm · 




      • I'm not sure I believe in an afterlife. In fact, I don't think I do. But last night these words came to me in bits and pieces in dreams, as if those family and friends of Aunt Irene who had predeceased her were calling out to her helping her across the line. Aunt Ginger's presence was there, somehow; I don't remember any other specific people. But I did get up each time the words came to me and I wrote them down so that I wouldn't forget them, as we often do with dreams. And so here is a poem for Aunt Irene:
         ·  ·  · Sunday at 8:34am
        • Sarah Dallas likes this.
          • Bob Dardano Your shorter journey comes to an end,
            The longer one begins.
            And we are here
            To share with you
            All the lessons tried and true
            Of life on Planet Earth.
            Now come sit with me and take my hand,
            There is so much more for us to say,
            And we'll not want for time to say it.
            Sunday at 8:34am ·  ·  5
          • Anita Campbell They were all there helping her crossover! I think Aunt kay was in charge but aunt Ginger, Auntie & mom's parents were all present - nice poem - thank you!
            Sunday at 8:46am via mobile ·  ·  2
          • Annette Martellotto Hawkins Rob, I think you should believe now.....
            Sunday at 11:31am ·  ·  2
          • Kevin G. Dardano Beautiful poem Bob. In the hours as the end approched it was as if mom was looking up toward the ceiling at times as if someone had entered that only she could see. We would speak softly to her and ask if it were Kay, Anna or Ginger. Was it the Blessed Mother come to escort her home? The sense of their presence was comforting. In the end mom took her last breath, closed her eyes and peacefully crossed over. The woman from hospice said she had never seen anyone go so naturally or peacefully. It was a blessing and confirmation that the love you dreamt about was truly present!! Thank you!!
            Sunday at 1:25pm ·  ·  1
      • Quick update on mom - I know this isn't the best source of communication for this but, it's easier for me than calling everyone - sorry! Today mom was put back on Hospice "Crisis Care". She has stopped eating and drinking. She has gone without for the last nine meals. Last Friday, Father Peter came in and gave mom the Sacrament of Last Rites. Dad is emotionally broken, but physically ok for now. Please say an extra prayer for them. Thanks!
         ·  ·  · December 21, 2011 at 2:38pm
          • Janet Streeper please give her a hug & kiss for me, tell her & dad I love them....
            December 21, 2011 at 3:20pm · 
          • Anita Campbell Will do - thanks!
            December 21, 2011 at 4:52pm · 
          • Nicole Duane Horan for me too.
            December 21, 2011 at 4:56pm · 
          • Annette Martellotto Hawkins I think about them both often...love and prayers your way
            December 21, 2011 at 6:24pm · 
          • Bob Dardano For me too. And hugs to you all.
            December 21, 2011 at 6:39pm · 
          • Anita Campbell Many thanks - i'll give them your messages tomorrow.
            December 21, 2011 at 7:46pm via mobile · 
          • Maureen Martellotto Cohen Thanks Anita for letting us know. I will say an extra prayer tonight! Love and hugs to you all!
            December 21, 2011 at 10:30pm · 
          • Donna Martellotto Boyce Jim and I send our thoughts and prayers and love to all of you!
            December 22, 2011 at 12:09am via  · 
          • Bob Dardano How are things going, Anita? A difficult Christmas for you all.
            December 26, 2011 at 10:28pm · 
          • Anita Campbell yes, but we're all doing ok. Thank you for asking and thank you for thinking of her!! Mom is truly a fighter! She's now been without food or water for 10 days. She is in NO Pain, which is a blessing. Dad is holding it together. Uncle Pete and Nick came to see him on Christmas Eve and he was soooo grateful and happy to see them. I just finished my Christmas cards - I've been spending as much time as possible at mom's side - hey, better late than never. I keep passing all of your prayers and comments on to dad and he said to say thank you to all of you! Thanks again!



  • So sorry to hear this. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Tell her we, my parents included, love her!
     ·  ·  · December 21, 2011 at 7:16pm
      • Anita Campbell Dave Thank you! I got your message and passed it on to dad - he's so grateful for everyones messages and prayers (and so am I)!
        12 hours ago · 
  • Aunt Dee and I prayed the rosary for all of you to give you strength at this time. May the Blessed Mother hold you and your Dad in her arms to comfort you. In prayer, Love, Susan




my deepest heartfelt sympathy to you and your family ellen, what an incredible woman she was.
 ·  · See Friendship · December 29, 2011 at 5:16pm



      • Dear Anita, I was happy to know you all were together through the night and this morning. -She really set an example in all she did, having great influence on my life- even having not seen her in quite a few years- memories of her surface at various times in my life now that matter ...and I think of her kindness, respectful loving ways, & humor. ... I will always remember her smiles & laughter. Love from Tommy and I.
         ·  · See Friendship · Saturday at 2:33pm · 
      • My mom's battle with Alzheimer's came to a peaceful end this morning. I feel truly blessed to have been at her side with my dad, Kevin & Ellen as she took her last breathe, gently closed her eyes and left on her next bigger & better journey! Thank you to all of you for your prayers and caring words. She was a great lady and an awesome mom!
         ·  · Saturday at 2:18pm via mobile · 
          • Sarah Dallas She truly was a "great" aunt. Please tell Uncle Jay I love him and that my thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
            Saturday at 2:21pm ·  ·  1
          • Marisa Rogers Hirsche lots of love to you and your families ... may memories comfort you!
            Saturday at 2:35pm ·  ·  1
          • Rebecca Anne Gerow Dennee Yes a bigger better journey is hers now.
            Saturday at 2:37pm ·  ·  1
          • Joshua Campbell I'm sorrryyyy for your loss :(
            Saturday at 2:42pm ·  ·  1
          • Kirsten Vogt Rose On this side you watch her ship sail away and pray "there she goes", on the other side they see her sails approaching and say "here she comes!" May she rest in peace, and your memories comfort each other and guide your way. She was a fine lady, living on in her children and grandchildren. You're all in our prayers.
            Saturday at 3:38pm ·  ·  3
          • Priscilla Nunez Anita I love you I'm here for you may she rest in peace as I know she is with the angels as she's one her self!! Big hugs and kissed and my deepest sympathy to you your dad and family...
            Saturday at 3:40pm via mobile ·  ·  1
          • Conal O'Neill I am sorry for your loss. May her next journey have smooth sailing. I will keep you, Kevin, Ellen and Uncle Jay in my thoughts.
            Saturday at 4:19pm ·  ·  1
          • Kelly Leone Anita, I am so sorry for your loss... you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. xxooxxo
            Saturday at 4:24pm ·  ·  1
          • Bill Harrison Anita, my sincerest blessings go out to you and the Dardano family.
            Saturday at 5:55pm ·  ·  1
          • Sharon Self My thoughts and prayers are with u and ur family
            Saturday at 6:02pm ·  ·  1
          • Anita Campbell Thank you everyone - a challenging day to say the least. Just went to Mass with dad & the kids - we all needed some extra prayers and comfort.
            Saturday at 6:20pm ·  ·  3
          • Jacki Steltenpohl Welch So sorry Anita, your mom was a wonderful lady...I'll never forget her long hair! I was so impressed!
            Saturday at 7:24pm ·  ·  1
          • Noelle Newmeyer Smith Anita, you and your family are in my prayers!
            Saturday at 8:02pm ·  ·  1
          • Marie Costello Anita, so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your whole family. I remember the lovely chats I had with your mom as we sat by your pool, munching on watermelon, at Katie's birthday parties. She was a wonderful woman, so glad I had the chance to know her.
            Saturday at 10:00pm ·  ·  1
          • Larry Carpenter God Bless you and the whole family. Love from all of us family in the Orlando ish area. I would like to think Irene and Doreen are chatting away right now and giving each other big hugs and kisses. I love all you guys, Larry
            Saturday at 10:12pm ·  ·  2
          • Dan Vollmer Anita, my prayers are with you, Kevin, Ellen, your dad and family. I have fond memories of your mother during my teen years. God Bless Irene.
            Saturday at 10:58pm ·  ·  1
          • Larry Carpenter I love you adopted grandma Irene. Happy new year to you. Remember we all love you and we will remember how much you love us. Irene is so proud of all of the family. I love you So much Jay. You're such a loving husband and father and uncle, :) xoxo to everybody
            Sunday at 2:31am ·  ·  1
          • Kelly Kimball Anita -- I wrote to Ellen and Kevin telling them what special memories I have from staying over at your house and being with your Mom. My Mom still quotes your Mom -- it's a great one, and to paraphrase is about making yourself happy - not looking to find happiness through a relationship. That you should be able to be happy with anyone as it is only you who can make yourself happy. She shined the light for so many! Love your picture's - you look gorgeous and your family seems wonderful. My love and thoughts are with you. Kelly
            Yesterday at 10:46am · 

      • Anita - I am so sorry about the loss of your mother - she was very special to me.
        But I am glad you all were able to be with her.
         ·  · See Friendship · Saturday at 1:15pm · 
      • So sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you Anita.
         ·  · Saturday at 12:02pm · 
      • what fabulous memories i have with your mom, she truly led by example. peace to you and your family anita, love you.
         ·  · See Friendship · December 30, 2011 at 8:28am · 
        • So sorry to hear about your Mom!Some of my earliest childhood memories are of Aunt Irene & Uncle Jay and the house upstate in Vernon!Seems like another liftime!Please give my love and Prayers to the entire family!
           ·  · See Friendship · Sunday at 12:54pm · 
        • Our family would like to say thank you for the all of your support and prayers with regard to Mom's passing. Your kind kind words were much appreciated. She knew many of you and loved you. For all of you that she had not had the pleasure of knowing, well, she would have loved you too. We hope and pray that you and your family's have a wonderful 2012. May your New Year be filled with love, laughter, happiness, health and prosperity. Love & Peace Kevin
           ·  · Sunday at 12:50pm · 

        • Kevin, so sorry to hear of your loss. May your fondest memories of your mom give you strength during this difficult time. Sending prayers your way.
           ·  · Saturday at 6:38pm via Facebook for BlackBerry® smartphones · 
        • Kevin---very sorry to hear your Mom passed away last night...thankfully she was surrounded by her loving family and it was peaceful. Having lost our Mom in September the O'Brien family can relate to your feelings from one Vernon family to another with fond memories of all the Dardano family. Love and sincere sympathy to you and your family and sisters Anita and Ellen.
           ·  · Saturday at 2:42pm · 
        • Saturday December 31 at 9:43 AM... Mom passed peacefully surrounded by her family.
           ·  · Saturday at 9:57am via mobile · 
        • It's 3:03 AM and my sister's and I keep vigil over our mother, Irene, as she clings to the last moments of her life among us. She was an extraordinary woman with the ability to make those who crossed her path feel as if they were the center of the universe. Mom loved her family, friends, birds, working with watercolors and rescuing stray animals and people alike. It's an honor and a blessing to be here with her!
           ·  · Saturday at 3:18am via mobile · 
            • Cindy Dardano Your mom was always so sweet to me whenever I saw her. You're all in my thoughts and prayers.
              Saturday at 3:28am ·  ·  1
            • Donna Vollmer Bosley Wonderful woman I have fond memories of her she and all of you are in my prayers. May her lord welcome her with open arms
              Saturday at 3:58am ·  ·  1
            • Jacki Steltenpohl Welch So sorry Kevin, your mom was the greatest! Thinking of all of you and wishing you peace...I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
              Saturday at 8:14am ·  ·  1
            • Toni Rudolph-Olin You are in my thoughts and prayers--I know what you are going through.
              Saturday at 8:18am ·  ·  1
            • Maureen Martellotto Cohen Thanks Kevin for the update. I will always cherished my times with Aunt Irene and the beautiful tropical flowers painting that I have of hers. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
              Saturday at 8:39am ·  ·  1
            • Cynthia Gerow Andisio Kevin, I hope you saw what I've posted to Ellen's page. You know your mom has meant the world to me and made a huge difference in my life. She made a real impact and love her so. Please know prayers are sent to all of you.
              Saturday at 8:49am ·  ·  2
            • Laurie Dixon Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers
              Saturday at 8:58am ·  ·  2
            • Bob Dardano I am keeping all of you in my thoughts. I have so many fond memories of her and times we all spent together.
              Saturday at 9:13am ·  ·  1
            • Annette Martellotto Hawkins since Anita and I are so close in age, I always looked as Aunt Irene as a second mother....keeping all of you in my thoughts and prayers.
              Saturday at 9:38am ·  ·  2
            • Annette Tolone Keeping your family in my thoughts and prayers
              Saturday at 9:53am ·  ·  1
            • Charlene Peet Rowe Sending prayers your way. A lot of us are going through this lately. Never an easy time.
              Saturday at 10:08am ·  ·  2
            • Tammy Martellotto I'm so sorry. Your mom is such a vibrant, amazing woman. My prayers are with all of you and may God just envelop you all with a peace beyond our understanding.
              Saturday at 10:48am ·  ·  1
            • Dave Tors Big Kev, So sorry to hear this. Your mom is a sweet soul and I'm sure is an angel in heaven. God Bless her. I'll call you soon.
              Saturday at 10:55am ·  ·  1
            • Diane Frankel Don't know your Mother, but I know what it is to lose one. Sounds like a great lady. Her memory will be with you every day. It is a blessing you were with her at such a difficult time.
              Saturday at 11:04am ·  ·  2
            • Rebecca Anne Gerow Dennee Loved her beautiful insight, her sense of humor, the way she cared for everyone- her dogs, & the birds, her love for the Lord, and I can still hear her laughter!
              Saturday at 2:18pm ·  ·  1
            • Scott T. Heysler Kevin, keeping you and your family in our thoughts and prayers.
              Saturday at 2:37pm ·  ·  1
            • Jennifer Avalon I don't know your Mom, but I send you all a prayer for a peaceful passing, and it is wonderful that you are with her....
              Saturday at 10:18pm ·  ·  1
            • Teresa Hall Bless you.
              Saturday at 11:01pm ·  ·  1
            • Dan Vollmer Kevin, I am so sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you and your family. I have such fond memories or your mom when I used to spend time at your house and camping. God Bless Irene.
              Saturday at 11:01pm ·  ·  1
            • Al Evans peace
              Sunday at 8:45am ·  ·  1

        • Kev - sending prayers to the entire family this Christmas.
           ·  · See Friendship · December 25, 2011 at 8:09pm · 
            • Rebecca Anne Gerow Dennee ‎((((Hugs))) - I just posted some memories on Anita's page- as Tom and I just celebrated our 40th wedding anniversary- and it brought back a flood of happy times shared with your family. - Prayers going up from here as well.
              December 26, 2011 at 1:24am ·  ·  1
      • Anita prayers to you and all the family this Christmas.
         ·  · See Friendship · December 25, 2011 at 8:07pm · 

      • Dear Ellen,
        Kelly told me of your Mom's death and I'm sending you my sincere sympathy. I'm glad you had her as long as you did but it's always the greatest loss. I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
        Your daughter is darling and looks so much like you I thought those might be pictures of you when you were young.
        My best to you with love, Karen Danielson (Kel's mom)



Mom's wake and funeral will take place together at The Immaculate Conception Church, where they attended, in Melbourne Beach. It will be on Thursday starting at 1pm with the mass at 2pm.
 ·  ·  · 19 hours ago
    • Nicole Duane Horan I'm so sorry I will not be able to come down. Thoughts and prayers, hugs and kisses to all.
      18 hours ago via mobile ·  ·  1
    • Anita Campbell You will be there - in spirit!! xoxoxo
      12 hours ago · 
    • Maureen Martellotto Cohen I will be there in body and spirit. Let me know if there is anything you need me to do... I'm all yours!!

6 comments:

  1. Anita, I had just read about your mom I am so sorry for you all. The article was a wonderful tribute to her and her life. I will always remember the birthday parties and other get together she put on at the house. Keep those memories close to your heart because when you are having a bad day or just something happens and mom pops in your head and heart its the memories that get you through. It is good that you had been there in the end her spirits are with you all. My thoughts and prayers to the whole family, Norma Laube

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  2. Sal & Family -
    Sal, very sorry to hear of your loss. I remember how close you and Irene were.

    I don't think I've ever told you, Sal what an inspiration you were to me in my formative years. You were one of my uncle Vincent's ("Dunny") best friends and that speaks volumes about your character. No one in my life had a greater influence on me than Dunny did, and knowing how much he respected you and valued your friendship told me that you were a special kind of man. You were always so kind and supportive of me and I've not forgotten that.

    I resolve to begin a Novena to The Blessed Mother, in this her season as Mother of God, for the repose of Irene's soul and for God's continued blessings on you and your family.

    I have such fond memories of the Vernon Pharmacy - of you and Pop and Frank Sansone and Max and Harold Elmer's meat market and everything that was "Vernon" in the good old days. I always respected you and always sought your approval. I trust I wasn't too much of a disappointment at times. I want you to know how much I respected you and trusted in your judgement.

    You wil be in my prayers daily and I have only fond memories of your significant presence in my life.
    Be well, Sal and God bless.
    jerry williams

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  3. I was so sad when I heard the news of Irene from my mother, Peggy. I vaguely remember a family trip to Vernon as a child. What I remember the most about that trip is Anita's kind nature and that beautiful hair!!! I always enjoy hearing my Mom's stories of their days in Puerto Rico.
    My thoughts are with your family as you gather in celebration of Anita.
    Love,
    Dyan Murphey Rushford

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  4. Oh my! Of course I meant to say Irene, not Anita!
    :)
    Dyan

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  5. JR., Anita, Ellen, Kevin and families - My condolences on Irene's passing. She was such a nice person and fun to be around. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. - Phil Maggio

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  6. Kevin sorry for your loss,Mr Dardano I will always remember all the advice and fatherly love you gave me when my dad died and I had my mom move in for her last years and I thankyou for thank and will always be thankful.Kevin I miss you and hope Lisa and the kids are well
    Joe Reina 315-219-3445

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