Rosita Cattaneo

Rosita Cattaneo, affectionately known as Tisha to her friends and Nonna to her beloved grandchildren, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2025, in Boston, MA. Born on February 24, 1933, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, to the late Aristide Carella and Ester Vernieri, Rosita's vibrant spirit and kind heart touched the lives of all who knew her.
Rosita was the cherished sister of the late G. Franco Carella and is survived by her devoted children, Ivana Spencer and her husband Michael, and Raffaelo Cattaneo and his wife Christine. She was the adored matriarch to her grandchildren, Mivan Spencer and his wife Stefania, Alessio Spencer, Dante Cattaneo, Alexander Cattaneo, Valentina Cattaneo, and Sylvia Cattaneo, and she held a special place in her heart for her great-granddaughter, Gioia Spencer.
A woman of many talents, Rosita was a gifted artist, seamstress, and clothing designer. Her exceptional creativity and skill left an indelible mark on the world of fashion and design. Those who were fortunate enough to wear one of Rosita's creations often spoke of the love and care she stitched into every piece. She was not just crafting clothing; she was weaving together the threads of her story and the heritage she held so dear.
Rosita was a proud Christian who lived her faith through her actions-loving, kind, and generous in every way. Her deep love for family was the cornerstone of her life. Rosita found great joy in cooking, and her kitchen was a place of warmth and laughter, where family and friends gathered to share meals and make memories. Her cooking was not just about nourishment but about nurturing the bonds between those she served.
Her passion for her Italian heritage was evident through her active involvement with the Gruppo Folcloristico "Riccordi D'Italia." Rosita was a beacon of cultural pride, sharing the beauty of Italian music, dance, and tradition with the community. Her enthusiasm was infectious, and she played an integral role in preserving the customs and stories of her ancestors for future generations.
Rosita's legacy is one of love, artistry, and commitment to family and community. Her absence will be deeply felt, but the memories she created, the traditions she upheld, and the love she shared will continue to thrive in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.
Family and friends are invited to a Funeral Mass in celebration of Rosita's life will be held on Wednesday, July 2nd at 10:00 AM at St. Leonard's Church, Hanover Street, Boston's North End. Entombment to follow at Woodlawn Cemetery.
We bid farewell to a remarkable woman whose life was a beautiful tapestry of devotion, creativity, and joy. Rosita Cattaneo will be dearly missed, but her spirit will live on through the lives she touched and the love she gave so freely. Rest in peace, dear Tisha, Nonna, friend, and guiding light. Your journey has been a testament to the beauty of a life well-lived. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Rosita, please visit our Tree Store.