Marie Louise (Lauriente) Romano, 84, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, December 31, 2021.
Born in Springfield, she was the daughter of the late Ciro & Anna (Spinelli) Lauriente.
Marie had an insatiable love for life and lived it on her own terms. A true original. She often spoke about her wonderful childhood and exceptionally loving and generous parents. This upbringing was exemplified in how she lived her life - a woman of deep faith, always giving to others, with a heart of gold. From a young age, she was known for her spunk and vivaciousness. Always popular and outgoing, she danced, played piano and was a baton twirling majorette. Later, she modeled for department stores and in fashion shows. She was always chic, stylish, beautiful, and timelessly defining the words class and elegance.
She met Nicholas Romano and their passion for dancing, music and cultivating friendships was an integral part of their union. They married and had two children together, Thomas and Diane. Marie was a wonderful mother who cherished her family and Italian customs. As her children grew, she pursued a career as a legal secretary with several prominent law firms in Springfield. Whatever Marie did, she did with fervor and commitment.
An avid athlete, she excelled in alpine skiing, tennis and in her later years, the game of golf and the practice of yoga. She was a member of the Springfield Country Club, where she fostered deep and lifelong friendships. Being on the golf course, laughing and spending time with friends, were her true pleasures.
Marie had a passion for all things Italian. Any opportunity she had to share stories and experiences about Italy, especially the Amalfi Coast, she would indulge, making connections with anyone who shared a similar love for the country of her heritage. This was one of her many strengths - connecting with people, making them feel comfortable, and always with a sense of humor. She was also a member of the Italian Cultural Center of Western Mass in Marie’s beloved South End of Springfield and often participated in their events.
In addition to her family, she was most proud of her two granddaughters, Niki and Carlina. They brought her great joy and fulfillment and she treasured time spent with them. They were her sun, her moon, and her stars. Cooking and baking in Nonna’s kitchen were two of their favorite pastimes. She was a master of the art of Italian cooking, passing on these skills and traditions to her children and grandchildren. For Marie, food was love and she shared this love abundantly with family and friends.
Marie’s children found comfort in the relationship forged with her companion of 18 years, the late, Abraham Simcovitz. They loved exploring new places, dining at restaurants and spending time together. She was deeply grateful for the years they had together.
Marie will always be remembered for her deep commitment to family, meaningful friendships, and love for her Italian heritage. Her energy and lust for life brought joy to many. Her candidness and humor, a smile to many. She was one in a million and we were all blessed to have had her in our lives. She will be sadly missed but will remain in our hearts and minds forever.
She is survived by her devoted children, Thomas Romano & wife Lisa of Wilbraham, and Diane Romano of Westborough, granddaughters, Niki & Carlina, cherished sister, Diane Fusaro of Agawam, step-grandson, Richard Lodigiani Jr., his wife Margaret and their children Ben, Anna & Will of Wilbraham and many dear nieces & nephews.
She was also predeceased by her sister, Annette Galat.
Family and friends are invited to Marie’s Liturgy of Christian Burial, Saturday, January 8, 11 a.m., at Sacred Heart Church, 395 Chestnut Street in Springfield; masks & vaccinations are required. Burial will follow at St. Michael’s Cemetery.
Due to the uncertainty surrounding Covid-19, to keep Marie’s friends safe, her family plans to have a Celebration of Life this Spring.
Memorial contributions may be made to I.C.C. of Western MA, 56 Margaret St., Springfield, MA 01105.
Please visit www.TazziniFuneralHome.com for condolences.
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