Tired of ads? Subscribers enjoy a distraction-free reading experience.
Click here to subscribe today or Login.

April 10, 2011

Susan Ferraro, 96, of Luzerne, died Sunday, April 10, 2011.

Born in Sugar Notch, on August 24, 1914, she was a daughter of Italian-American immigrants, Salvatore and Maurgerite Lanuti, and the fourth of seven children.

After loosing her mother at age 7, Susan worked hard, along with her father, and siblings, to keep her family together. Her incredible work ethic, dedication to family, selflessness, and deep-rooted values began from her early experiences, and remained with her throughout her life.

It was with great pride that she retold stories from her youth, passing on tremendous life lessons that will be carried in the hearts of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren for many years to come.

Her family eventually moved to Luzerne, which is where she met her beloved husband, Anthony. They were married in 1938, and together went on to own and operate a general store and a construction company, until his untimely death at age 47.

Susan continued to devote herself to raising her two children, Larry and JoAnn, and remained faithful to the memory of her husband.

An avid gardener, and skilled cook, Susan delighted her family and friends with savory dishes, using many of her garden treasurers.

She was also known for her famous confectionary creations that were much anticipated at family gatherings.

Always cooking from her heart, Susan often celebrated her love for others through the foods she prepared for them.

Susan was an active member of UNICO for several decades and formerly served at president. She forever remained dedicated to its mission of service to others.

Susan was always eager to help those in need, had a heart of gratitude, and an unwavering faith in God.

She was a gift to all who knew her, especially to her family, who will hold her forever in their hearts.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by siblings Pete, Mary, Marty, and Frank.

Susan is survived by her brother Sam Lanuti, Michigan; sister Louise Bettachini, Jessup, Pa.; Larry Ferraro and wife Florence, Chester Springs, Pa.; and daughter, JoAnn Berrettini, Forty Fort.

She will be sorely missed by her seven grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren.

Funeral will be held at 9:30 a.m. Thursday, from the Anthony Recupero Funeral Home, 406 Susquehanna Ave., West Pittston, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. in Holy Family Parish, Bennett Street, Luzerne, with Father Michael Zipay officiating. Interment will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Carverton. Friends may call from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.