Mary Nelarico Zampino

Mary Nelarico Zampino Rotterdam Mary Nelarico Zampino, 94, at rest Sunday, April 12, 2015. Mary was an amazing woman who lived a wonderful life. Born in Schenectady, NY on February 26, 1921, Mary was the beloved daughter of the late John and Adeline (Palmieri) Nelarico. Mary grew up in her family's Bellevue grocery business, learning the business from her father who owned and operated the Piggly Wiggly Market. After her father's retirement, Mary and husband, Les, took over the business and eventually relocated and opened the L & M market with partner, Mike Verteramo. Mary graduated from Mildred Elly with a Business Degree. She was multi talented. First and foremost, she was a very caring mother and devoted wife, musician, bookkeeper, great cook and fashion statement. Mary was also former Miss Schenectady. Mary began playing the piano and singing at the age of five, which she continued doing throughout her life. She enjoyed cooking and baking. Everyone loved Mary's breadsticks and cookies, which she enjoyed sharing with her family, friends and her sons' bandmates. She liked playing cards with friends and watching her favorite TV show, The Golden Girls. Mary was a member of the OLA Rosary Society, Rotterdam Senior Center and the Festival of Praise Choir, performing many concerts including SPAC. At the age of 16, Mary became the organist and choir director for Our Lady of the Assumption Parish in Rotterdam (now Our Lady Queen of Peace), retiring at the age of 85 with 69 years of service. Mary's humor, wit and ever present smile will forever be missed. Mary was the beloved wife of 49 years to the late Leslie A. Zampino (1995); proud mother of Les Zampino (Kathleen Consolo) and Robert Bobby Zampino (Maureen Archard), all of Schenectady; loving grandmother of Sheree Fletcher and David Zampino of California, Richard Zampino of Schenectady; and great-grandmother of Trey, Cheyenne, D.J., Jameson, Carmine and Hudson; beloved sister of the late Philomena Nelarico and Dr. Anthony Nelarico; beloved sister-in-law of Eileen Laube of Rotterdam. Mary is also survived by several nieces, nephews and cousins. Calling hours will be held Friday, April 17 from 4 to 8 p.m. at the DeMarco-Stone Funeral Home, 1605 Helderberg Avenue, Rotterdam. Funeral services will begin, 9 a.m., Saturday at the funeral home followed by a 10 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial at Our Lady Queen of Peace Church, 210 Princetown Rd., Rotterdam. Entombment will take place in St. Anthony's Cemetery, Glenville. On-line condolences may be left at www.demarcostonefuneralhome.com.