Maryann Robustelli

CHESHIRE; Mrs. Maryann (Rinaldi) Robustelli, 87, died October 11, 2010, in peace at her daughter's home, surrounded by loving family. She was born at home on Hill Street in Waterbury, Connecticut on February 28, 1923, the daughter of Ralph and Rose (Dadonna) Rinaldi.

Mrs. Robustelli was a registered nurse, graduating from the St. Mary's School of Nursing in Waterbury in 1944. On February 28, 1949, in the midst of a blizzard and on her 26th birthday, she married Roland C. Robustelli. They built a home on Torringford Street in Torrington and over the years added six children to the family. After Roland died at age 43, Maryann moved the family to Waterbury where they occupied the home of her late parents on York Street.

Maryann spent her life caring for people - her children, brothers and sisters, nieces, nephews, and grandchildren, and often friends and others in need. She was a natural nurturer who brought solace and comfort to many, putting their interests ahead of her own. Her most important achievement was teaching her children how to love and respect others, and to honor and celebrate family. She loved many things but high on the list was celebrating life with good food and wine, surrounded by her extended and boisterous Italian family.

She is survived by her children, Christine and her husband, Edward Albrecht of Cheshire; Thomas and his wife, Nancy of Lewiston, ME; Roland and his wife, Monica of Wake Forest, NC; Mary Louise and her husband Kenneth Birden of Harwinton; Joseph and his mate, Loretta Ferrara of Plantation, FL and Patricia, of Plymouth, and also ten grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. She also leaves two brothers, Raymond Rinaldi and his wife, Phyllis, and Salvatore Rinaldi, and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Besides her husband and parents, she was predeceased by two sisters, Antoinette Moreschi and Philomena Polletta.

We thank all of our family and friends for the great warmth, love and support expressed in so many ways these past several months. We also thank the staff of Masonicare of Wallingford for their professional and compassionate services.

Relatives and friends may call at the Alderson Funeral Home of Cheshire 615 South Main St., on Thursday, October 14, from 6pm to 8pm. A memorial service will be held at the First Congregational Church of Cheshire 111 Church Drive on Friday, October 15 at 10am. Burial will be at the convenience of her family. In lieu of flowers Maryann has asked that donations be sent to Children International, P.O. Box 219413, Kansas City, MO 64121-7223.