Emma Ventresca
In Loving Memory of Emma Ventresca
Emma Ventresca, a resident of Warrington, PA, peacefully passed away on Sunday, March 10, 2024, at the age of 103, surrounded by the love of her family. Born in Torre dei Nolfi, Abruzzo, Italy, she was the cherished daughter of the late Croce and Crocefissa (LoStracco) Ventresca. Together with her siblings, the late Kathryn Gartsu (Mitch), Louis (Dolores), and Elena Ventresca, the family emigrated in 1936 to the USA and settled in Worcester MA. In 1944 she married her late husband, Gerardo D. “Domenic” Ventresca, with whom she moved to Philadelphia.
Emma is survived by her devoted son, Gerardo D. "Jerry" Ventresca, Jr., of Ft. Washington, and leaves behind a legacy of love and family, including her two grandchildren Mark (Natalie) Ventresca and Cara (Jon) Jaquez, and the latest joys of her life her beloved three great-grandchildren Oliver, Gabriela Emma, and Emiliana.
Despite living over 100 years, Emma never allowed herself to live in the past. She was funny, irreverent, and had an uncanny way of getting her point across without hurting feelings. Her ability to “keep up with times” made her beloved and revered by 5 generations of her extended family.
Emma enjoyed getting out of the house, volunteering at many school events at Norwood Academy and Ancillae-Assumpta Academy. She worked part time when she felt like it, most notably at Bradlees where she was affectionately known as “Mrs. B”. She was famous for responding “we don’t have that” to any customer calling the store. She was also a long-time member of the Order of Sons and Daughters of Italy in America Benjamin J. Ventresca Lodge.
Emma truly delighted in her family – not just her immediate family, but her multitudinous cousins, nieces, and nephews. She loved traveling with her equally young-at-heart, mischievous cousins on bus trips, tours and cruises. She was famous for baking her unforgettable chocolate chip cookies and white pizza. Her love of ice cream was legendary – she was known for sneaking out for her treat and refusing to share! She was still eating and loving her ice cream into her 103rd year!
Emma will be remembered as the "Mayor of Neshaminy Manor," as she had been active with the staff and the Activities Department during her care there since 2011. She made a significant impact at her new home, not only enhancing her own life, but in the caring and encouragement of other residents.
Emma was a true inspiration to so many who had the privilege of being in her life. She loved fiercely and without condition, she had an infectious laugh, and could drop a one-liner with a straight face that brought down the house. Comforted and confident in her faith, she always said she was blessed. But it was those fortunate enough to be in her sphere who were truly blessed.
Relatives and friends are invited to pay their respects on Thursday, March 14, 2024, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the Joseph A. Fluehr III Funeral Home, 241 East Butler Ave. (at Sandy Ridge Rd.), New Britain, PA 18901. Additional visitation will occur on Friday, March 15, 2024, from 10:00 am until the funeral mass at 11:00 am in St. Jude Church, 321 W. Butler Ave., Chalfont, PA 18914. Emma's final resting place will be Whitemarsh Memorial Park, Ambler, PA.
Instead of flowers, the family kindly requests contributions in Emma's memory be made to Resident Welfare Fund, c/o Neshaminy Manor Nursing Home, 1660 Easton Rd, Warrington, PA 18976, where Emma had been a resident since 2011; or Caring Hospice Services, 400 Commerce Drive, Ft. Washington, PA 19034, to its dedicated compassionate team. Your support will honor her memory and make a positive impact on the lives of others.
Evening Visitation
Thursday, March 14th, 2024
6:00 PM - 8:00 PMJoseph A. Fluehr III Funeral Home, New Britain
241 East Butler Avenue
New Britain, PA 18901Morning Visitation
Friday, March 15th, 2024
10:00 AM - 11:00 AMSt. Jude Church
321 West Butler Avenue
Chalfont, PA 18914Funeral Mass
Friday, March 15th, 2024
11:00 AMSt. Jude Church
321 West Butler Avenue
Chalfont, PA 18914Interment
Friday, March 15th, 2024
Whitemarsh Memorial Park
1169 Limekiln Pike
Ambler, PA 19002