Wednesday, March 18, 2020
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My grandmother, Maria DeFelice lived an extraordinary life. I always said her life could be a classic black and white movie, or written as one of the greatest love stories of all time. Born in Italy, in a small farming village outside of Naples, her father owned an olive farm. Within her small town, she would sometimes frequent the cafe her zia owned. As beautiful as this young lady was, she could not be overlooked by my grandfather who was at the time serving in the Army during WWII. He caught one glimpse of the rosa headed beauty in that cafe and knew in that moment he would make her his wife. That is exactly what he did. Sweeping her off her feet, he found out her name and where she lived. Showing up at her home asking her father for her hand in marriage. Grandma accepted and thus her journey began. She was 17 years old when she married my grandfather. Off to the United States she went. She told me she landed in Newark, New Jersey. It was “cold as hell” as she would say and she had no clue what to expect. With family but an ocean away, she grew up fast. Raising three boys, John, Patrick and Michael. She made a home for her family like no other. Only the luckiest of men are graced with a woman like grandma to be their mother and wife. Eventually, as time passed, the rest of her family made it from Italy to live life by her side. Grandma’s life was her family. Over the years, her dreams came true as her family expanded. Her first grandson Nick was born. To follow, Christian, Alyssa (me), Michael, Lauren, and Paul. I think I can speak for all the grandchildren when I say there was nothing like being at grandmas. The smells, the stiff couch, the over the top Italian decor. There was nothing not to love. Her kisses were the best. She would kiss you so hard on the cheek, it would literally leave your ear ringing. Her love was unconditional, but if you crossed her wrong, you were in for it. She was blessed with 5 great grandchildren she loved dearly. Kara, Matthew, Grindon, Andrew and John. We all could look back on grandma and remember the comfort she provided us all. The love she gave to each and every one of us. I know she will be a guardian angel to all her loved ones. Rest In Peace my beautiful grandmother. I will never forget the sound of your voice and the moments we spent together. Love always, Alyssa...
