Maria Altamura
Maria Catena Altamura of Stamford passed away peacefully in her home on June 19th, 2024. She was a beloved mother, wife, daughter, sister and friend. She dedicated herself to her family and her children, and let her faith guide her through all of life’s challenges.
Born in 1986 in Arena, Italy, to Antonio and Michelina Pagano, she grew up in Bayonne, New Jersey, and spent summers travelling back to Italy to spend time with family. An avid learner, she went on to get her Bachelor’s degree at Kean University in New Jersey, and her Masters in Education from Pace University. In recent years she discovered her true passion for photography, capturing long lasting memories for all of her clients, friends and family.
In Ilario she found a soulmate and best friend. They shared the privilege of growing up together from a young age and later married in 2016. They then embarked on their most important role as parents, welcoming their two beautiful children, Bria (2018) and Giovanni (2021). The pair supported each other in all their hobbies and passions, fostering a nurturing and loving environment for their children.
She found joy and excitement in every aspect of her life, and her infectious laugh filled any room she was in. She loved trips to Nantucket & Cape Cod, Bruce Springsteen concerts, day trips to the beach with her kids and above all, spending time with those she loved. She learned voraciously, lived fully and loved fiercely.
She is predeceased by her paternal grandparents, Giuseppe and Maria Caterina, her maternal grandfather, Francesco, and her Zia Carmelina. She is survived by her loving husband Ilario, her children Bria and Giovanni, parents Antonio and Michelina, siblings Maria Caterina and Giuseppe, maternal grandmother Michelina, mother and father in-law Michelina and Joe, brother in-law Michael, and two sisters in-law, Beth Anne and Michelle. She leaves behind two nephews, Luca and Matteo, along with many cousins, uncles and aunts, including her Zia Maria Vartuli who was by her side in her last weeks.
Donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital in memory of Maria Catena.
Family and friends may call at the Nicholas F. Cognetta Funeral Home & Crematory, 104 Myrtle Ave., Stamford CT 06902 on Sunday, June 23, 2024 from 6:00PM to 10:00PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, June 24, 2024 at 10:30AM at The Church of Saint Cecilia, 1184 Newfield Ave, Stamford, CT 06905, Interment will follow at Queen of Peace Cemetery.
To leave an online condolence please visit www.Cognetta.com