Elvira (Celi) Vallese

Herkimer - Elvira Vallese, 108, a long time Herkimer resident, passed away peacefully on Wednesday December 18, 2019 at Little Falls Hospital.

She was born July 26, 1911 in Italy, the daughter of the late Carl and Philomena (Vallese) Celi. Elvira was educated in Italy.

On February 12, 1933 She was united in marriage to Armando Vallese in Italy. In September 1933 Elvira and her husband Armando moved to the United States.

She was an avid parishioner of the Church of Sts. Anthony & Joseph in Herkimer. 

As matriarch of the family, Elvira's life was centered around her loved ones. She enjoyed cooking and baking for her family and enjoyed showing her grandchildren and great grandchildren how to make homemade macaroni. In her leisure she enjoyed tending to her  gardens.

Survivors include her daughter, Joanna Sementilli of Herkimer; a daughter -in -law, Dawn Vallese of Herkimer; her cherished grandchildren, Lisa (Duane) Mayo, John (Stacey) Sementilli, Dave (Lori) Sementilli, Anthony (Lisa) Sementilli, Ramond (Valerie) Vallese and Steven Vallese; her loving great grandchildren, John (Caitlyn) Sementilli, Jr., Philippe Mayo, Joel LaPuma, Giovanna Sementilli,Gabrielle Sementilli, Ashley (Chris) Putney, Marissa (Dustin) Baker, and Alisha (Ermin) Muratovic; her great great grandchildren, Christopher, Giada, Melanie, Cali and Beau; Niece Donna (Glenn) Sietsema,and Carla (Frank)Aiello and cousins in Pennsylvania

She was pre-deceased by her son, Philip C. Vallese on November 28, 2018.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday December 21, 2019 at 10:30 am from the Church of Sts. Anthony & Joseph on S. Main St., Herkimer, with Reverend Paul Catena, officiating. Burial will take place at Calvary Cemetery in the spring. In keeping with Elvira's wishes there are no calling hours. Arrangements are under the caring guidance of the Vincent A. Enea Funeral Service, (next to NBT Bank), 527 E. Albany St., Herkimer, NY 315-866-1500. All memorial contributions may be made to the Church of Sts. Anthony & Joseph, c/o Parish Office, 344 S. Washington St., Herkimer, NY 13350. Envelopes will be available at the church.

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