Lena DiFonzo
Obituary
Lena DiFonzo Obituary
Lena DiFonzo died peacefully on March 1, 2023, at age 74. She was born on December 4, 1948, in Rende, Cosenza, Calabria, Italy. She was the youngest of three children of Orlando and Adelina Giraldi. In 1951, their family emigrated to Chicago, Illinois. Lena is preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Gaspero Giraldi. Surviving family members are her husband Silvano DiFonzo, sister Carmella Paletta (Salvatore), son Silvano DiFonzo, Jr. (Carolyn), daughter Christina Toepper (Richard) and grandson Alexander Toepper.
Lena married Silvano DiFonzo on June 8, 1967, in Chicago, and they enjoyed 55 years of marriage. In their early years together, Lena’s family lived in Illinois cities of Chicago, Cicero, Carpentersville and Crystal Lake. In 1995, Lena and Silvano moved to Scottsdale, Arizona. Lena spent 50 years working, mostly at Kmart Corporation and then Walgreens as a salesclerk.
Lena fought a valiant battle against pancreatic cancer and survived an amazing 30 months since diagnosis. Her husband was always at her side as a full-time caregiver during this time. Her family was thankful for the extra time with her. She will be remembered for her beauty, optimism, positivity, work ethic, hospitality and being known as an incredible cook. Her lasagna was the best. We will miss her.
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In Loving Memory Of
Lena DiFonzo
December 4, 1948-March 1, 2023
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