Delores (Valerino) Vassallo's Obituary
Delores (Valerino) Vassallo, 91, “Delori,” passed away peacefully at her home in Dewitt on June 1, 2021, surrounded by her loving family.
A lifelong resident of the Syracuse area, Delores was born on December 7, 1929. Later, she attended North High School, where she was the most sought-after beauty in North history (if her yearbook is any indication). But none of those other boys had a chance when Patrick Vassallo, fresh from Naval service in WWII, walked into her classroom and swept her off her feet. (Actually, she swept him off his feet. He literally fell over a chair when he saw her.)
They were married for 71 years, together for 73. During that time, they raised their daughter Debbie Vassallo Esposito, lived in Italy and Syracuse, golfed at Lakeshore, bowled perfect games, danced at the Knights of Columbus, worshipped at Our Lady of Pompei, and cherished their grandchildren Robert Esposito of San Francisco, Leigh Esposito of Miami Beach, Florida, and number-one great-grandson Declan Brando Toal.
Grandma’s life’s work was her family. She elevated love to a full-time profession—a passion, even. Whenever her loved ones traveled, she wore white to protect them. She prayed for all their hopes and dreams and cried over their disappointments. Even when they were far apart, she called countless times, signing her voicemails with her name, “Grandma.” She traveled thousands of miles to visit; she was ever determined to be with her family. In turn, they traveled to see her all the time. She made Syracuse their second home.
In her final months of life, Grandma constantly expressed gratitude for her many blessings. She had been adored by her husband, and, besides that dashing gentleman, her greatest joys were her daughter, grandchildren, and Declan. As she prepared to pass, her instructions for us were simple— “Go enjoy your beautiful lives.” To her granddaughter, she said “Go enjoy your beautiful son.” She wanted her family to have what she had: a wonderful life.
She is predeceased by her mother, Mary Trivisone Valerino Signoski, Father Joseph Valerino, half-sister Mary Gargaro, and half-brothers Carmen and Joseph Valerino.
She is survived by her husband Patrick Vassallo, sister Joan Valerino, daughter Debbie Esposito of West Hollywood, former (but forever) son-in-law Jerry Esposito, grandson Robert Esposito, granddaughter Leigh Esposito, and great-grandson Declan Brando Toal.
A calling hour will be held on Monday, June 7, 2021, from 10:30 – 11:30 A.M. at Our Lady of Pompei/St. Peter Church 301 Ash St. Syracuse, NY 13208, immediately followed by a funeral mass in celebration of Delores’ life at 11:30 A.M. in Our Lady of Pompei/St. Peter Church. Entombment will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery Mausoleum. Funeral arrangements entrusted to THOMAS J. PIRRO JR. FUNERAL HOME.
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