Hilda ‘Rosie’ Balestino

In addition to her parents, Hilda was preceded in death by her loving husband, Angelo Balestino, whom she married on July 17, 1948, at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church. She was also preceded in death by her siblings: Norma Lestochi, Carmel Naperkoski, Pat Sinisi and Tony Sinisi; and a son-in-law, James Miller.

Hilda is survived by her loving children: Deborah Miller of Altoona, Richard Balestino, Ronald Balestino, David (Terri) Balestino, all of Altoona; a daughter-in-law, Pauline Balestino; her siblings, Helen Urbanek in New York and Sister Celesta of Scranton; her grand­children: Ricky, Brian, Sean, Jennifer, Adam (Rachel) and Jenna (Nick) Raia; her great-grand­children: Nadia, Jordan and Aidan; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Hilda was Catholic by faith and a member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church.

She was a 1943 graduate of Altoona High School.

Shortly thereafter, Hilda worked for Vincent Horowictz Shoe Factory and Shulmans. After marrying her husband, Angelo, Hilda spent many years working for Gable’s Department Store while being a homemaker and taking care of her family.

Hilda was a past member of The Order of the Sons of Italy – Blair Lodge #958 and the Ladies Auxiliary of American Legion A&JIAI.

Family and friends will be received from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, May 8, 2026, at Santella Funeral Home, 1106 Eighth Ave., Altoona, where a prayer vigil for the deceased will be held with Father Frank.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at noon on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, 806 11th St., Altoona, with interment being held privately at Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be sent in Hilda’s name to Our Lady of Mount Carmel Organ Fund, 806 11th Ave., Altoona, PA 16602.

santellafuneralhome.com