Lena (Calabro) D'Ambro

Mrs. Lena (Calabro) D’Ambro, age 87, of New Hartford passed away peacefully on Tuesday October 18, 2022, at St. Elizabeth Medical Center with the love and support of her family.

She was born in Utica on July 27, 1935, a daughter of the late Anthony and Angelina Mondello Calabro and was educated in local schools. She was married to Michael J. Graziano in 1954, a union of 8 years, until his untimely death in 1962. Lena was blessed to find love again and on June 25, 1966, she was married to Louis J. D’Ambro in St. Anthony of Padua Church, a blessed union of 42 years until his passing on September 2, 2008.

Lena was employed as a waitress at several local restaurants including Graziano’s Regal Restaurant and Al Belmont’s “Alfies” Restaurant until her retirement. She was a dedicated parishioner of St. Anthony/St. Agnes Church, where you could always find her working the annual festivals. She volunteered as a member of the St. Cosmas and Damian Society and was also a member of the NY Mills and Whitestown Senior Centers.

A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, Lena cherished cooking and spending time with loved ones on special occasions and joyous holidays. During the winter months, Lena traveled to Naples, Florida where she created countless memories and built lifelong friendships that she truly valued.

Surviving are her daughter and son-in-law, Michele and Marty Taranto; daughter, Cheryl Graziano; son and daughter-in-law, Lou and Emy D’Ambro; her beloved grandchildren, Jessica French, John and Michelle Taranto, Francesca, Christina, Olivia, and Louie D’Ambro; four cherished great-grandchildren, Madison French, John “JT”, Noah, and Lily Taranto; along with in-laws, several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Lena held in her heart the memory of her beloved daughter, Roselle Graziano, who she lost at birth. She also leaves many close friends behind, especially Nick and Mary Parrotta, who were grateful to have created so many wonderful memories and shared her love and humor.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend her Mass of Christian Burial on Monday at 11:00 am in St. Anthony/St. Agnes Church. Private entombment will be in Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum. Lena's family will receive guests after Mass in church.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Lena’s memory may be made to St. Anthony/St. Agnes Church. Envelopes will be available at the Mass.