Claire Verrastro

WATERBURY Claire Verrastro "May 10, 1932 – August 09, 2025" Claire Verrastro, cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and lifelong friend, passed away peacefully on August 9, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born on May 10, 1932. Claire was the daughter of Maria (Fasano) DiNicholas and Carl DiNicholas. Her roots were deeply planted in Waterbury, CT where she spent most of her life. Claire met her husband Gene Verrastro in high school, and the two spent over 50 years together, building a life filled with love and family tradition. Gene and Claire settled in Waterbury after Gene completed his active duty with the Air Force in Vallejo, California. In 1955, Claire's husband Gene and their brother-in-law Jim Anelli, opened Mike's Market in the North End of Waterbury. After finding success there, they shifted their focus to a new venture in Washington Depot, Connecticut. In 1973, they acquired the Washington Food Market. Claire played a vital role in the market's success, working in every department during its early years and setting the stage for future generations of the Verrastro family, who continue that legacy today. True to her Italian-American heritage, Claire's life at home revolved around food, family, and tradition. The refrigerator was always full, the coffee pot never off, and there was always fresh pastry ready for anyone who stopped by. Claire's kitchen was the heart of her home, where she shared her love of cooking with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, passing down recipes that will be a part of the family forever. Claire's devotion to her family was unwavering. She was the heart of her home. Claire enjoyed having her family close, and her home was always a welcoming place for them. Her Christmas Eve celebrations became a beloved family tradition, one that continues today. Travel was another joy for Claire. She and Gene, along with Gene's late cousin Marie and her husband Frank "Cal" Calabrese, enjoyed frequent travels, with a favorite being their annual March trip to Aruba. True to Claire's practical nature, she would pack the luggage with food and supplies, ensuring that they could enjoy homemade meals and comfort while away from home. Claire was a familiar face around Waterbury. She loved her daily routine, which usually included driving around Town Plot to visit friends and check in with local businesses. For Claire, these stops were more than just errands, they were moments of connection with the people she valued in the neighborhood that shaped her life. Claire chose to celebrate her 92nd birthday at Monteiro's on Fairfield Avenue, a favorite local restaurant that was part of her daily routine with her local circle of friends. A passionate fan of UConn basketball, Claire rarely missed a game. She also loved to unwind with a good card game. Whether it was a late-night round of setback or rummy 500, Claire enjoyed these activities well into her nineties, sharing laughter and good times with family and friends. She also enjoyed casino excursions with her nieces from time to time. Claire was predeceased by her daughter Judith, husband Gene, and beloved son-in-law Scott. She is survived by her two sons, George (Jocelyne) and Paul, three grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. Claire leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and tradition. Her incredible spirit and love will be missed by all who knew her. The Verrastro family would like to thank Rae, Diane, Ellen and Paula as well as the staff at the Village at East Farms for their professionalism and care during Claire's final days. Calling hours will be held on Thursday August 14, from 8:00AM to 10:00 AM at Chase Parkway Memorial Funeral Home, 430 Chase Parkway, Waterbury, CT. Immediately following calling hours on Thursday, a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00AM at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church on Highland Avenue, Waterbury, CT. Following mass, a burial service will be held at Calvary Cemetery, East Main Street, Waterbury, CT. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to in Claire's name to: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital at: https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html