Bernice "Bernie" (Waleski) Pisegna's Obituary
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our loving mother, Bernice "Bernie" (Waleski) Pisegna, on January 15, 2025, at the age of 91. She was giving, caring, and above all resilient, overcoming many challenges with strength and faith.
Bernie was predeceased by her husband of 65 years, George Pisegna, she is survived by her daughter, Deborah (Thomas) Swift; her son, George Pisegna; grandson, Kevin (Alyssa Geran) Swift; granddaughter, Nicole Swift (Tyler Scions); great granddaughters, McKinley Swift and Peyton Scions; sister-in-law, Irene Laquidari, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Bernie was the daughter of Albert and Rose Waleski and a life-long resident of Syracuse, New York. She is predeceased by her sister Amelia Thurston, and brothers, Raymond and Albert. A graduate of Assumption Academy, Bernice started her career as a dressmaker, was a floral designer at Salamino’s Florist & Gift Shop and finally retired from P&C Foods, Inc.
Bernie was a great listener, loved to talk, had a contagious laugh, and excelled at cooking and baking. She was always hosting generous and loving family events and welcomed everyone with her smiling face. There are many memories of family reunions, apple picking weekends, cookouts, birthdays, and holidays. She also loved playing cards, watching Yankees baseball and SU basketball. She was very kind, and for many years, ensured birthdays, anniversaries and milestones were celebrated with cards. Bernie and George were avid travelers and enjoyed visiting places around the world with their friends.
Visitation will take place on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, from 9:00 A.M. – 11:00 A.M. at the THOMAS J. PIRRO JR. FUNERAL HOME, 3401 Vickery Rd. (Corner of Buckley Rd.) Syracuse, NY 13212. A funeral Mass in celebration of Bernice’s life will follow at 12:00 P.M. (noon) at Assumption Church, 812 N. Salina St., Syracuse. She will be laid to rest beside her husband, George, in Woodlawn Cemetery Mausoleum.
We would like to thank the wonderful staff in House 7 at The Eddy Village Green for the compassionate and loving care they gave to our mother.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105.
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