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Mary Distaffen Obituary
Greece: July 10, 2008, after a 4-year battle with ALS ("Lou Gehrig's disease"). Predeceased by her parents Salvatore and Mary (Cravotta) Pilato, and infant brother Joseph Pilato. Survived by husband Edward R. Distaffen; son, Edward M. (Kate) Distaffen; grandson Jack Distaffen; sister Barbara Pilato (Tom) Haschmann; several aunts, uncles, great aunts and uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins. Joyce was a graduate of R.I.T, where she earned a degree in Business Administration. She was a former employee of Xerox Corporation, Saphar and Associates & Coordinated Care Services, Inc. Joyce was also a former member of the Board of Directors of the Italian American Community Center, member of the NYS Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, and a eucharistic minister at Mother of Sorrows Church. For more information about Joyce, visit www.aliferemembered.com
The family would like to deeply thank the many relatives, friends, neighbors, healthcare professionals, and most of all the "angel-aides" who made Joyce's wish to stay in her home for the duration of her illness, a reality. We could never have done it without you.
BARTOLOMEO & PEROTTO Funeral Home Inc, 1411 Vintage Ln (between Rte 390 & Long Pond Rd) Visitation Sunday 1-4 & 7-9. Joyce's Funeral Mass will be held 9AM on Monday at Our Mother of Sorrows Church, 5000 Mt Read Blvd. A sign language interpreter will be provided. Interment Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. Donations may be sent to ALS/MDA Association, P.O. Box 673, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY 14642-867.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Mary Distaffen
Barb and Jack Wentz
July 30, 2008
We were sorry to hear of Joce's passing. We spent many Family occasions together, and we'll always remember her for her wonderful SMILE!!!
She is now free of the Horrible disease she was suffering from! God Bless!
Mary McAvoy
July 18, 2008
It was my great pleasure to know Joyce as a co-worker at Xerox. Please accept my prayers and sympathy on your loss. May you take comfort in knowing she is at peace in the arms of her Lord.
Sari Levin
July 17, 2008
Barbara and family,
I am sorry to hear about your loss of your sister. She is at peace. You and your family are in my prayer.
Dave Lisi
July 16, 2008
It was my pleasure to attend Mary Joyce's celebration of life. Knowing her since the early Concord St days still did not touch the tip of the vast impact Joyce had on so many people and organizations. She was Sweet and kind to everyone. She will be missed.
May the image of her contagious smile help to console all her family and friends.
May she now Rest In Peace with her Mom, Dad & Brother.
Candy Black
July 14, 2008
Mary Joyce we knew you for a short time but you were an inspiration to both me and Dr. Pelino. You reminder us of why we do what we do . It was our privilege to take care of you!
Jean Orlicki
July 14, 2008
I am sorry for your loss. Joyce always had a twinkle in her eye, a beautiful smile and a sense of style. She was so kind and loving. She was a wonderful person and I'm glad I had a chance to know her.
Janice Bianchi
July 13, 2008
My deepest sympathy to Joyce's family. May God comfort and give you strength during this difficult time.
Lori DeCamilla
July 13, 2008
There are so many memories of my life long friend here in the city she loved. I will cherish them forever.
Nancy Polizzi
July 12, 2008
Joyce and I were friends for 49yrs. I couldn't have asked for a more loyal and wonderful person to call my best friend. My sympathy and prayers are with all of her family, I know we have an "Angel" in heaven watching over us all. God bless.
Her Forever Friend!
Nancy Polizzi
Vincent M. & Connie Cravotta
July 12, 2008
There are no words to describe the feeling of our loss with you're passing.
LISA VADNEY
July 12, 2008
IT WAS A PLEASURE TO MEET/WORK FOR JOYCE. YOU TAUGHT ME A LOT, AND WE SURE HAD MANY MANY LAUGHS AND MEMORIES. YOU WERE A WONDERFUL PERSON. I WILL SURE MISS YOU ALONG WITH SOO MANY OTHERS. XOXO
Diane Fitzhugh
July 12, 2008
Joyce was a long time friend and co-worker at Xerox. My prayers and sympathy are extended to her family.
Laureen Oliver
July 12, 2008
My Dearest Joyce,
What can I say to a person who was the sweetest and kindest friend I've ever known. I leave you with my favorite poem. And tell you it was honor and a priviledge to call you a lifetime friend. I will miss you and cherish the years of memories you've given me. May you rest in peace.
I love you,
Laureen
People come into your life for a reason, a season or a lifetime.
When you know which one it is, you will know what to do for that person..
When someone is in your life for a REASON, it is usually to meet a need you have expressed. They have come to assist you through a difficulty, to provide you with guidance and support, to aid you physically, emotionally or spiritually. They may seem like a godsend and they are.
They are there for the reason you need them to be. Then, without any wrongdoing on your part or at an inconvenient time, this person will say or do something to bring the relationship to an end.
Sometimes they die. Sometimes they walk away. Sometimes they act up and force you to take a stand.
What we must realize is that our need has been met, our desire fulfilled, their work is done.
The prayer you sent up has been answered and now it is time to move on.
Some people come into your life for a SEASON, because your turn has come to share, grow or learn.
They bring you an experience of peace or make you laugh. They may teach you something you have never done. They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy.
Believe it, it is real. But only for a season.
LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons, things you must build upon in order to have a solid emotional foundation. Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person and put what you have learned to use in all other relationships and areas of your life.
It is said that love is blind but friendship is clairvoyant.
Richard Ciccone
July 12, 2008
I am sorry to hear of your loss. It was a pleasure to know her from high school and her years at Xerox. She was a great person and will surley be missed.
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