NORWICH – Mary P. Oliva, 88, who resided at the Chenango Memorial Nursing Home, and formerly Cabot, Pa., passed away Thursday, morning, Sept. 8, 2011 after a long illness.
Our mother, Mary, was born on Feb. 28, 1923, in Arnold, Pa. Her father Ceasar Proetti, and mother, Ermilinda, were Italian immigrants. Our mother had one brother, Augi Proetti, deceased and one surviving sister, Rena Ritzert.
Our mother, Mary, was placed in a Catholic orphanage after the loss of her mother when she was only seven years old. At the age of 15, she returned home to live with her father, Ceasar. She very quickly became acquainted with her neighbor Vincent L. Oliva, whom she married on May 19, 1942. Our mom and dad spent 62 wonderful years together until our father passed on April 29, 2005. They were truly blessed with an amazing love for each other.
This incredibly loving woman we called mom was able to manage to love her husband and her children so deeply and perfectly because her life was guided by her Lord and savior. Her faith sustained her throughout her lifetime and we treasure the example that she set for us.
Mom gave birth to five children. She is survived by four: Robert Oliva and his partner Jayne Bianco of Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., Vincent Oliva and wife Darline of Nederland, Texas, Donna Menkin and husband Robert of Groves, Texas and Jeanne Brightman and husband Rick of Norwich. Sadly, her son Donald Oliva died suddenly on Jan. 8, 2007. His wife and children reside in Palm Coast, Fla.
Mom was blessed with 19 surviving grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. Her grandson, Michael Oliva, died of a long illness in June of this year.
Arrangements were by the R.J. Fahy Funeral Home.
Although we are sad for all of our tomorrows that will be spent without her, our admiration and respect for the woman that she was will certainly never end.
We love and miss you Mom. May you rest in peace.