July 21, 1937 - July 22, 2012
Carmela T. Bongiorno, 75, Altoona, died unexpectedly Sunday at home.
She was born in Altoona, daughter of Domenick and Angelina (Naimo) Baldessaro. She married Angelo Bongiorno on Sept. 5, 1959.
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Bongiorno
Surviving are her husband of 52 years; two daughters: Kelly Pacifico of Altoona and Teresa Webber (Larry) of Gettysburg; two sons: James (Kathleen) of Duncansville and David (Laura) of Altoona; eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and a special lifetime friend of 69 years, Rita Luciano.
She was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Theresa; and two brothers: Anthony and Ralph Baldessaro.
Carmela was a 1955 graduate of Altoona High School. She retired from St. Demetrius Church in Gallitzin as a bookkeeper. She was a member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church, where she served as a Eucharistic minister, and she was also a member of the St. Anthony Society.
Carmela was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and friend who was extremely courageous in her health battles. She always had a story to tell that made many people laugh.
Friends will be received from 3 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, July 25, 2012, at Santella Funeral Home, where a vigil for the deceased will be held. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, July 26, 2012, at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church. Committal will be at Calvary Cemetery.
In memory of Carmela, donations may be made to your charity of choice.
