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Christina Anne "Chris" Cavallari
1956 - 2014
FUNERAL HOME
Christina Cavallari Obituary
Christina was born July 7, 1956, the daughter of Edward F. and Josephine (Serio) Cavallari of Easthampton. She grew up in Northampton, attending Hawley Grammar School and later Northampton High School graduating with the class of 1974. She entered Boston College receiving her bachelor's degree in Psychology and graduated in 1978.
She worked briefly for Borawski Travel before joining the family at Serio's Market on State Street. She was the owner and manager of Serio's and had worked there for the past 30 years. She was a familiar face to the customers and friends who passed through every day. Chris enjoyed her work, the friends she made and the many people she employed throughout the years. Serio's was more than just a grocery store, it was a home away from home for Chris and the many people who shopped or worked there.
She was a longtime supporter of Riverside Industries, with Serio's Market, Chris could offer developmentally disabled people an opportunity to work and socialize within the community, giving them a sense of dignity, pride and self-worth. She was a member of "Bag Share", a group of local people recycling shopping bags through a sewing group. Chris loved to be involved in her high school reunions, planning and participating in numerous events including her upcoming 40th class reunion. It was there at her 15th reunion, 25 years ago, that she reconnected with her classmate, Gary Golec. They were married and would have celebrated their 19th wedding anniversary in September. Gary joined her at Serio's, working side by side every day and became part of the Serio's Market family.
She especially enjoyed family gatherings, whether a holiday dinner or a trip to Cape Cod to spend time with her parents, family and friends. She loved the seashore and relaxing on the beach. Chris loved to explore little shops and the treasures they offered. She also enjoyed reading and baking.
She leaves her beloved parents Edward F. and Josephine (Serio) Cavallari and her devoted husband of 18 years, Gary Golec of Easthampton; her step-children Jaimie Ann Golec of Easthampton, Joseph Golec of Westfield, and Jeremy Golec of Worthington; and her three beloved grandchildren, Bryce, Raemon and Ella. She also leaves her brother Edward and his wife Suzanne of Plainville, her many nieces and nephews including Rebecca Cavallari, Jillian Shea, and Christopher, Casey, Alexander, Tyler and Justin Golec. She also leaves her brothers-in-law Jamie Golec and his partner Linda Warburton and Curt Golec and his wife Donna all of Florence.
Chris loved animals and always had a soft spot for a stray. She leaves her cherished companions, her cats Pong and Ruby and her dogs Gracie and Bella.
Calling hours will be Thursday from 3 to 7 p.m. at the Czelusniak Funeral Home of Northampton. Funeral services will be Friday at 8:45 a.m. from the Czelusniak Funeral Home with a Liturgy of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 10 a.m. at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, King Street, Northampton. Chris will be laid to rest in St. Mary's Cemetery in Northampton.
Donations in her memory may be made to the Golec Grandchildren Education fund, c/o Florence Savings Bank, 85 Main St., Florence, MA 01062, or the Dakin Animal Shelter, 163 Montague Road, Leverett, MA 01054.
To sign a Guest Book, express condolences, share memories and read other obituaries, go to www.gazettenet.com/obituaries.
Memories and Condolences
for Christina Cavallari
66 Entries
Barbara Ween
June 25, 2014
To Chris's family- I am so deeply sorry for your loss. I always appreciated Chris's warmth and smile -Gary's too. I love coming into the store - it's friendliness and genuine community spiriit are always felt and appreciated. I have known the Golec Family through Gary and Chris's nephews and Roxanne Golec-all wonderful folks as i know Chris was. I send loving thoughts and prayers to Chris's husband and family. Barbara Ween
Lydia Oram
June 12, 2014
I've been a loyal Serio's customer for years--not only because of the quality of the produce, but because of the warmth, helpfulness, and openness of the people. Chris was always a welcoming presence and someone who brightened my day. I have been away from the area since December and so couldn't offer my condolences in person--know that you have my very warmest wishes and my deepest sympathy. Chris--you will be missed and to all and Gary in particular, my deepest condolences.
Caroline Reed
June 12, 2014
Although it has been many years since I have been back to Northampton, I fondly remember Serio's and visiting Chris with my Dad during breaks from college or when I went home for a visit. My best memories involve the times that Chris, Sharon Parda and I would go out for the evening. Chris, I will always remember your kindness and wonderful love of life.
Kate Emery
June 9, 2014
I've just learned of Chris's passing and it really knocked the wind out of me. I'm so sorry Gary. The two of you never failed to show your warmth and kindness to me on my visits to Serio's, and I loved chatting with Chris about genealogy and our family histories. What a special, lovely woman. All our love, thoughts and prayers are with you.
Harriet Brickman
June 9, 2014
So, so sorry, Gary. Our condolences to your families. Chris' death leaves a palpable absence on State Street, and in so many hearts.
June 8, 2014
Sending lots of love & prayers to you Gary.
Sharon (Banks) Chapman
Beverly Truehart
June 8, 2014
For many years I lived downtown initially main st then later center st. Back when I was still trying to impress my soon to be husband w my culinary skills serio's was my go to.Chris & Gary were always there always ready to help w the things I needed to come up w my own splendid meal. Soon I had the knack & now all these years later I am still married to that wonderful man..Thank you Gary, thank you Chris.Chris we will miss your sweet smile!
June 7, 2014
Hey Gary...really sorry for you're loss,
Tom Clifford
I remember Christina well..she was wonderful
Sarah Ovenden
June 7, 2014
I was so sorry to hear of Chris' passing. My father was a long time resident of Michaels House and did much of his daily shopping at Serio's. He had major communication deficits due to a stroke, and Chris was always incredibly kind and patient with him, taking the time to learn his "unique" style of communicating what he needed and treating him with dignity and respect at all times. She probably never knew what an important role she and others at Serios played in his life --enabling him to stay independent and self-sufficient as long as possible. I hope that when they meet up on the other side he is finally able to express his thanks to her, but in the meantime please accept mine, as well as my deepest condolences.
June 6, 2014
Gary and family, we are so sorry to hear about Chris, she was such a beautiful lady
Mike and Diane Ponti
Donna Kenny
June 6, 2014
Sending sincere sympathy to you, Gary, and the Golec and Serio family, for your profound loss. Chris will be missed forever by all of us.
Barry, Sue, and Rosie Goldstein/Stubbs
June 6, 2014
Chris was a wonderful person. We will miss her smiling face, her friendliness, and her interest and concern and for others, even our pets. Along with the rest of her family, she showed special compassion for those in need. Our neighborhood will never be the same.
Jonelle Dennis
June 6, 2014
Dear Gary and families. I am saddened to hear of your sudden loss. May you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends. I can appreciate from viewing all of the beautiful pictures displayed, that you will forever hold fond memories of Chris' life with you. Someone so special will never be forgotten. May your memories and the bible promise, One day no one will say: "I am sick." Isaiah 33:24, be a source of comfort.
With heartfelt condolences,
Jonelle
June 6, 2014
Gary, Anne and I are so very sorry for your loss of Chris. We can not tell you how much, this does happen to us all but not when Chris is in her 50's....our best wishes to you, Anne and Sally Mannarino and Bagg
Walt and Jean Braley
June 5, 2014
So very, very sorry to hear of Chris's passing. She was such a lovely person who touched so many lives. Our deepest condolences to Gary and family.
Tim Sicard
June 5, 2014
Although 40 years ago, practically to the day, we graduated from NHS together and there had been minimal contact between the two of us, a quiet bond remained over that time. Your kindness & sincere love for people is what re-acquainted us just recently. Thank you for the compassion and patience you displayed with my parents who lived right next door to Serio's. I'm sure my Mom's giving you a great big hug as we speak! And don't worry - my Dad will keep Gary occupied at the store. And Gary - no words of mine can console you. Just know my thoughts and prayers, along with those of hundreds of others, are with you and your family during this tough time.
Mike and Jane Dunphy
June 5, 2014
Our deepest condolences to Gary,the Cavallari and the Serio families.Chris was one in a million.So very sorry.
Sam Mead
June 5, 2014
Chris, your kindness and spirit were one of the many things to look forward to every day at Serios. You will live on in our hearts and memories, but we miss you.
John Kokoski
June 5, 2014
Gary, our deepest sympathy to you and your family,our prayers are with you. John and Elaine and everyone at Mapleline Farm.
Steve Campbell
June 5, 2014
Gary,
I was totally floored to hear of Chris passing. I read all of the messages people have written here and I too will always remember her smile. It was always the same from the 1st time I met her in Jr High at Hawley to the last time I was talking with her. My deepest sympathy and our heartfelt condolences from all of the Campbell family.
susan ward
June 5, 2014
My sincerest sympathy to you and your family in this time of sorrow.
June 5, 2014
You are in our thoughts and prayers,
Jonathan Evans and Kathy Duffy and the Herbarium staff
Mary (Mott) Trumble
June 5, 2014
I remember Chris from Jr. High and High school...She was very sweet, intelligent, athletic, and always smartly dressed...I hadn't seen her in many years and but, it seems to me she hadn't changed a bit...I was so shocked and saddened to hear of her passing...Gary and family my deepest condolences to you...this earth has lost another beautiful soul.
James Lowenthal
June 4, 2014
Too soon, much, much too soon. We are all shocked and deeply saddened by this unexpected loss. Chris was always such a warm and cheery and welcoming presence, such a kind soul and generous spirit. It was always a pleasure to stop and chat with her about business or town politics or family or animals. We will miss her very much and our hearts go out to you.
James, Mary Beth, and Melle
Jessica Nally
June 4, 2014
Rest in peace Chris. Gary,and the Serio Market family,and Serio family you have my deepest sympathies.I will miss Chris's smile and friendliness whenever i would shop at the market. God bless you Gary.. You all are in my daily prayers.Heaven has gained an angel.
Love,Jessica
Doug Schneider
June 4, 2014
Chris was a pleasant and kind person. My thoughts and prayers are with Gary and Chris's family.
June 4, 2014
Though many years have passed,I would have hugged you and rejoiced to see that your eyes still twinkled when you smiled. It is how I shall remember you always...my classmate friend. Prayers for your family
Stan Sherer
June 4, 2014
Dear Gary,
We are so very shocked and saddened. Our thoughts are with you.
Fondly,
Stan Sherer and Marjorie Senechal
Paul Natale
June 4, 2014
Dear Gary - It is with deep sympathy and sadness to hear about Chris. Her energy and love for life was immeasurable. I remember Chris as a warm caring person. She made everyone she met feel like family. ahhh...and that SMILE forever in my memory. Love, Paul
June 4, 2014
Dear Gary:
We are so sorry for your loss. Serio's won't be the same without Chris, but of course it still will be our favorite store. We will miss her.
Love and light,
Jeannette and Frances
Bob Gardner
June 4, 2014
Rest in peace, Chris.
June 4, 2014
Gary, We are so sorry and shocked to hear of Chris's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. She was a breath of fresh air, always by the register with a smile and a wave to us through the window as we took our evening walks. May all good and happy memories sustain you at this time.
Jim & Lou Ann Krawczynski
June 4, 2014
She will be deeply missed - the last time I was in the store she had made a copy of an old picture for me of all of the old Italian men in Northampton to see if possibly one could have been a relative. Our thoughts are with you and your family Gary.
~ Lisa & Chuck Labbee
Jean Warburton/Powers
June 4, 2014
God bless you Chris!
My deepest sympathies to your family. You surely will be missed!
Thomas(Tom,s Hot Dog) LaBelle
June 4, 2014
To Gary and his family and in-laws, My prays and thoughts go to out to all in this time of sadness. Chris, always, made a point in saying Hello with a smile when we would meet.
Maureen T. Carney
June 4, 2014
Chris was Northampton's quintessential Local Hero. While I'll miss her smiling face, I'll honor her memory by continuing to support Serio's Market "where customers are friends; and friends are customers." Condolences to Gary and all the Serio family.
Bob Matty
June 4, 2014
My deepest and most sincere condolences to Gary and the whole family. I was incredibly shocked when a former Serio's market co-worker informed me the other day (and to this day a great friend). I was confused when I heard it, it didn't seem real. Chris and the whole family were so much more to me than employers during my time in Northampton, To this day there is always a story in my life that somehow includes the phrase 'when I worked at Serio's in Northampton'. The store is much more than a store - I made lifelong friends and memories that I will always remember. Chris was such an animal lover, and I always appreciate that I got one of her rescue kitties that was a challenge, but like most challenges worth it in the end.
Gary, Ed and Josephine I am so sorry and wish I was there with you during these times, but Chris was so loved you will have a whole community around you
Sincerely
Bob Matty
Jeanne Lamica Pandoli
June 4, 2014
Rest in Peace Chris - thinking of your family
Barbara Sweet
June 4, 2014
Chris is and will be missed so much from our community! Our hearts are heavy.
Mary ellen Tacy
June 4, 2014
RIP Chris, u always had a beautiful smile no matter if u were having a bad day or good day! Gary this is a shock for you but u will feel her in you too wk @ the store and carry her smile. ??
June 3, 2014
With the deepest of sympathy...and with the greatest adoration...we will miss our friend's contagious smile and warm presence.
EMA Dental
Karen Ahearn
June 3, 2014
There is a huge hole in this community that will miss you greatly
Georgette
June 3, 2014
Chris...You were Always kind and had a warm smile for all . Thank you for that. You will be missed.
Pat Shaw
June 3, 2014
God bless you, Chris, and condolences to your husband and family members. You were one of a kind, Ms. Chris. You will be dearly missed by the people of Northampton and far beyond. Knowing you was a gift.
Gregg
June 3, 2014
My sincere condolences to a family that is a cornerstone of our superb town. My first round as a Serio's customer was in the 70's when I recall Lester sitting at the register with his Green Stamp dispenser ... years later, when I returned to town I was delighted that the store had kept it's soul (right down to the best roast beef in America and a 'center store' that knew what we cherished in our great town) -- obviously under guardianship of this beautiful lady.
It is great people that make a town like ours what it is, and Chris was a the prime example as she carried the flag with her husband, Gary ... She'll be missed and I'm sure her spirit will live on for more years than she would have imagined. She had an impact and that is a legacy.
RIP Sweet Lady
Evelyn McCoy
June 3, 2014
My sincere condolences to Gary and the entire fellow employees. Chris always had a smile for everyone one who came to the store, she will be missed.
Our prayers are with you.
Evelyn McCoy and Sara Kelemencky
Sherri Beebe
June 3, 2014
She had those "sweet smiling eyes" you all are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. God Bless.
June 3, 2014
Gary,
My deepest condolences to you and your family.
Michael Foley
Gail Duffney Cirillo
June 3, 2014
My deepest symapthy to Chris's family for their loss. I remember her well, beginning as a childhood playmate at the wonderful birthday parties at the home of her Serio cousins on Ridgewood Terrace, Northampton. She was a lovely, king woamn and will be sorely missed by all who knew her. My thoughs and prayers are with you.
Gail Duffney Cirillo, Boston, MA
Tom & Nancy Glasheen
June 3, 2014
Our Deepest sympathy and condolences, May God bless all of you and your family in this time of great sorrow, we are so sorry for your loss.
Paul Coleman
June 3, 2014
As a Northampton native who spent my childhood in the 1950's-1960's playing near SERIO's and shopping there, SERIO's was more than a market place, it was an extended family. My sincere condolences to the wonderful family. God Bless.
Annie Thompson-Cahillane
June 3, 2014
Kind, smart lady with the sweet smile, you will be remembered and missed....
Lois Ahrens
June 3, 2014
My deep condolence to Gary and everyone at Serio's. A terrible loss to each of you and to each of us who shop there and visited with Chris ... Always an extra bonus to chat with Chris. Northampton will miss her.
Susan
June 3, 2014
Gary and Family -- my heart hurts for all of you. You have lost a truly wonderful person Even though I only knew Chris through going in the store, I knew instantly she was a kind, generous person who cared for people and animals. Her smile was wonderful. She will be truly missed and I know that Chris' family will now realize how many lives she touched and how she will be greatly missed by everyone who knew her.
Dina Mastrangelo
June 3, 2014
Our deepest sympathy....
The Mastrangelo Family
(591Diner)
Charlie & Julie Yurgielewicz
June 3, 2014
Thinking of you all and sending wishes for strength and peace in the coming days. We are so very sorry for your loss.
Jerry Norton
June 3, 2014
Dear Gary and all the Serio's Market family - My deepest sympathy for your loss- Chris was one in a million and I am grateful that my daughter Lila and I had 12 years of friendship with her . A very special person never to be forgotten
Tish Serrani
June 3, 2014
Chris's kindness will always be remembered.
Melissa Krueger
June 3, 2014
My condolences to Gary and the families at this very sad time.
Joel Levine
June 3, 2014
This is the saddest note ...coming into Serio's was a private pleasure for me...it was a place and people that I admire and have affection for...Chris and Gary were the kind of people that you build a life around...the day to day pleasures and relationships that stay meaningful. For me, Serio's was a refuge...a reminder that lovely and decent people are important...that human interactions are essential..that living in a place is not meant to be anonymous...I care deeply and have profoundly saddened by this loss. In my mind's eye, Chris will always be there when i come in....and we will say all the things we used to say....or at least , I will hear them....
George Kopacz
June 3, 2014
Chris-RIP!
June 3, 2014
The smile that will be with us forever. We'll miss you tremendously. Our thoughts are with you Gary. Rich Cooper and all of us at State Street Fruit Store.
Linda Langlais
June 3, 2014
My sincere condolences to Gary and the entire family and close friends for the loss of your loved-one, Chris.
I worked with Chris at Pioneer Valley Travel and I always liked her. She was genuine and kind.
My prayers are said with you all in mind and wishing you light and peace. God bless.
Susan Supinski (Foster)
June 3, 2014
Your essence of life will live on forever.
Liz Pease
June 3, 2014
Gary,
My deepest sympathy and condolences to you and your family at this difficult time.
Avis Nicol
June 2, 2014
Chris,
You brought so much light to the hearts of everyone you knew. You will be greatly missed. There are so very few as kind as you. I am very lucky to be able to say we were friends.
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